Storage, Transport and Recycling: Shelf Life, UN Numbers and Class 9

How to store batteries so they last, how they are classified for shipping, and how to dispose of them responsibly.

ATB Power · Battery Solutions · 6 min read

Batteries need the right care off the vehicle as much as on it. Here is the short version of storing, shipping and recycling both lead-acid and lithium.

Storage

Lead-acid (VRLA): store charged, cool and dry. Self-discharge is 1 to 3% a month; recharge before open-circuit voltage drops below about 12.4 V, and at least every 6 months.
Lithium (LiFePO4): store at 40 to 60% charge, cool and dry; top up every few months. Never store a lithium battery flat.

Transport classification

Type	UN number	Class	Notes
VRLA AGM / GEL	UN2800	8	Non-spillable; exempt and non-DG when protected from short circuit
Lithium LiFePO4	UN3480 / UN3481	9	Fully regulated; must meet UN 38.3; reduced charge for air

VRLA non-spillable batteries ship as general cargo under the usual exemptions. Lithium batteries are fully regulated dangerous goods and must be packaged, marked and labelled correctly. Confirm carrier rules before every shipment.

Recycling

Both chemistries are recyclable. Return spent batteries to an authorized recycler or point of sale.
Never put batteries in general waste, fire or water.
Protect terminals against short circuit before transport to recycling.

On the Resources page

The full transport and disposal detail is in each product's safety data sheet (SDS), available to view or download.

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