When is UN38.3 required for an electric screwdriver battery?

UN38.3 is required when a lithium battery is offered for transport, including when the battery is shipped alone, packed with equipment, or installed inside an electric screwdriver.

For a rechargeable electric screwdriver with a built-in lithium-ion battery, the battery normally needs to comply with UN Manual of Tests and Criteria, Part III, Subsection 38.3 before international transport. (unece.org)

This means the battery should have:

Passed the applicable UN38.3 tests

A valid UN38.3 Test Summary

Battery model and specifications matching the actual production battery

Manufacturer and test laboratory information

Correct transport classification, such as UN3481 when the lithium-ion battery is contained in equipment

The requirement applies even when the battery is already installed inside the screwdriver. IATA confirms that the test-summary requirement applies to lithium cells and batteries whether they are shipped alone or contained in equipment. (iata.org)

There are limited exceptions for certain prototype or very small production-run batteries shipped under special conditions, but these are not the normal route for commercial electric screwdriver shipments. (unece.org)

For ToolQeen rechargeable screwdriver projects, we recommend completing UN38.3 before mass shipment and locking the battery manufacturer, model, voltage, capacity, and Wh rating so the tested battery remains consistent with the battery used in production.