Canada Updates the Lithium Battery Mark
Smaller label. No phone number. Easier compliance.
On June 17, the Government of Canada published amendments to the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Regulations in the Canada Gazette, Part II. One of the most welcome changes is the update to the lithium battery mark, bringing Canada into closer alignment with the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations, the 49 CFR, and the IMDG Code.
Two Important Changes to the Mark
The amendments introduce two important changes:
- The minimum size of the lithium battery mark has been reduced from 120 mm × 110 mm to 100 mm × 100 mm.
- A telephone number is no longer required on the lithium battery mark.
What Does This Mean for Your Existing Labels?
Many companies already have a supply of lithium battery marks printed with a telephone number and measuring 120 mm × 110 mm. The obvious question is: Do they need to be thrown away?
Fortunately, no.
The amendments include a 12-month transition period, allowing you to continue complying with the previous version of the TDG Regulations.
Using Labels During the Transition Period
During this transition period:
- Labels with a telephone number may continue to be used for up to 12 months from the coming-into-force date of the amendments.
- Oversized labels (120 mm × 110 mm) that do not include a telephone number may continue to be used even after the transition period, as they exceed the new minimum size requirement of 100 mm × 100 mm.
Our Recommendation
If you still have labels with a telephone number, use up your existing inventory during the 12-month transition period.
When ordering new labels, purchase the 100 mm × 100 mm lithium battery mark without a telephone number. The smaller size makes it much easier to fit all required marks and labels on smaller packages where space is limited.
Simpler and More Flexible Compliance
This amendment simplifies compliance, harmonizes Canada’s requirements with international regulations, and gives shippers greater flexibility when marking packages containing lithium batteries.
Contact Us
Do you have any questions about shipping lithium batteries? Take a look at our Lithium Battery FAQ or contact our team of experts at 855.734.5469 or send us an email, we’re happy to help.
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