Introduction

The global energy storage landscape is on the cusp of a major transformation. As we approach 2025 and 2026, significant regulatory changes are set to reshape how lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries are classified, transported, and handled. These updates represent the most comprehensive overhaul of battery regulations in a decade, with far-reaching implications for manufacturers, shippers, and users across industries.

With the global lithium-ion battery market projected to surpass $446 billion by 2032, staying ahead of these regulatory shifts is crucial for businesses looking to remain competitive and compliant. In this article, we’ll explore the key changes coming in 2025-2026, examine the rising importance of sodium-ion batteries, and discuss how these updates will impact the battery industry and global supply chains.

The Rise of Sodium-Ion Batteries

Before diving into the regulatory changes, it’s important to understand why sodium-ion batteries are gaining traction as an alternative to lithium-ion technology:

Energy Density and Performance

While lithium-ion batteries currently offer higher energy densities (typically 150-250 Wh/kg) compared to sodium-ion batteries (100-150 Wh/kg), ongoing research and development are steadily improving sodium-ion performance. This makes sodium-ion increasingly viable for various applications, though they may not yet match lithium-ion in compact, high-energy-density use cases.

Cost and Resource Availability

A key advantage of sodium-ion batteries is the abundance and low cost of sodium compared to lithium. Sodium is widely available in seawater and various mineral sources, potentially leading to more stable supply chains and reduced production costs in the long run.

Environmental Impact

Sodium-ion batteries offer potential environmental benefits compared to lithium-ion batteries. The production and disposal of lithium batteries have raised concerns due to mining practices, pollution, and recycling challenges. Sodium-ion technology could provide a more sustainable energy storage solution, especially if effective recycling processes are developed.

Key Regulatory Changes for 2025-2026

New UN Classifications

Starting in 2025, several new UN numbers will be introduced for batteries:

• UN 3551 – Sodium-ion batteries
• UN 3552 – Sodium-ion batteries packed with/contained in equipment
• UN 3556 – Vehicle, lithium-ion-battery-powered
• UN 3557 – Vehicle, lithium-metal-battery-powered
• UN 3558 – Vehicle, sodium-ion-battery-powered

This expansion of classifications reflects the growing diversity of battery technologies and their applications, particularly the recognition of sodium-ion batteries as a distinct category.

Reclassification of Lithium-Battery-Powered Vehicles

A significant change affects the classification of lithium-battery-powered vehicles like e-bikes and e-scooters. These will no longer fall under UN 3171 (Battery-Powered Vehicles) and must instead be classified under the new UN numbers (3556, 3557, or 3558) based on their specific battery chemistry.

To help businesses adapt, regulators have implemented a three-month transition period beginning January 1, 2025. By March 31, 2025, UN 3171 will only apply to vehicles powered by non-lithium battery chemistries, such as traditional lead-acid batteries.

Updated State of Charge (SoC) Requirements

Perhaps the most impactful change for many businesses will be the new State of Charge (SoC) restrictions coming into effect on January 1, 2026. These requirements, outlined in IATA DGR packing instructions 952, 966, and 967, include:

• Vehicles with batteries >100 Wh: Maximum 30% SoC (mandatory)
• Vehicles with batteries ≤100 Wh: Maximum 30% SoC (recommended)
• Lithium-ion batteries packed with equipment > 2.7Wh: Maximum 30% SoC (mandatory)
• Lithium-ion batteries contained in equipment: Maximum 30% SoC (recommended)

These SoC restrictions aim to enhance safety during transportation but will require significant adjustments for manufacturers and shippers of lithium-battery-powered products.

Implications for Businesses and Supply Chains

The 2025-2026 regulatory changes will have far-reaching effects across industries:

1. Manufacturing and Product Design

Manufacturers of battery-powered products, especially vehicles and portable electronics, may need to redesign their products to accommodate the new SoC restrictions. This could involve developing new charging systems or adjusting battery management software.

2. Shipping and Logistics

Freight forwarders and logistics providers will need to update their processes to ensure compliance with the new UN classifications and SoC requirements. This may include investing in new equipment for measuring and controlling battery charge levels during transportation.

3. Supply Chain Management

The introduction of sodium-ion battery classifications could lead to more diverse and resilient supply chains, as companies explore alternatives to lithium-ion technology. However, this may also require new supplier relationships and quality control processes.

4. Regulatory Compliance

All businesses involved in the battery supply chain will need to invest in training and updating their compliance procedures to align with the new regulations. This includes ensuring proper documentation, labeling, and handling of batteries under the new classification system.

How FreightAmigo Can Help Navigate These Changes

As a Digital Logistics Platform, FreightAmigo is well-positioned to support businesses in adapting to these regulatory updates:

1. Real-time Compliance Updates

We continuously monitor regulatory changes and update our Digital Platform to ensure that all shipments booked through FreightAmigo comply with the latest requirements. This includes automatic application of the new UN classifications and SoC restrictions.

2. Streamlined Documentation

Our Digital Logistics Solution automates the creation of shipping documents, ensuring that all necessary information regarding battery type, classification, and state of charge is accurately captured and communicated to carriers and customs authorities.

3. Carrier Network Expertise

FreightAmigo’s extensive network of vetted carriers includes specialists in dangerous goods transportation. We can help match shippers with carriers experienced in handling lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries under the new regulatory framework.

4. Custom Compliance Solutions

For businesses with unique needs, we can develop tailored Digital Logistics Solutions that integrate seamlessly with existing systems to ensure compliance with the new battery regulations while optimizing overall supply chain efficiency.

5. Training and Support

Our team of logistics experts is available 24/7 to provide guidance on the new regulations and help businesses develop strategies to minimize disruption during the transition period.

Conclusion

The 2025-2026 regulatory changes for lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries represent both a challenge and an opportunity for businesses in the energy storage and transportation sectors. By staying informed and proactive, companies can turn these updates into a competitive advantage, improving safety and sustainability while exploring new technologies like sodium-ion batteries.

As we navigate this evolving landscape, partnering with an experienced Digital Logistics Platform like FreightAmigo can provide the expertise and technological solutions needed to ensure compliance, optimize operations, and drive innovation in battery-powered products and supply chains.

Stay ahead of the curve by working with FreightAmigo to develop a comprehensive strategy for adapting to these important regulatory changes. Together, we can power the future of global trade safely and efficiently.