Shipping Goods With or Containing Lithium Batteries Overview As of January 1, 2017: a new hazard label comes into effect with a 2-year transitional period during which time either the existing Class 9 Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods hazard label or the new Class 9 Lithium Battery hazard label may be applied to packages containing lithium batteries prepared in accordance with Section I, IA or IB of the lithium battery packing instructions.