EU Packaging Regulation (PPWR) Since August 2026: What Online Sellers Must Do Now – and What Comes in 2030
The EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) has applied since 12 August 2026. Many headlines mix up today’s duties with rules that only start in 2030. Here is what applies now, what comes later, and how sellers can prepare without overreacting.
Key takeaways
- PPWR (Regulation (EU) 2025/40) has applied across the EU since 12 August 2026.
- Conformity, technical documentation and substance limits apply now.
- The 50% empty-space cap for e-commerce packaging applies from 1 January 2030.
- National packaging registration (e.g. LUCID in Germany) remains mandatory.
What is the PPWR?
The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation replaces the former EU Packaging Directive. As a regulation it applies directly in all member states, so packaging rules become more uniform across Europe. It entered into force in February 2025 and has applied since 12 August 2026.
What applies since 12 August 2026?
- Conformity and documentation: manufacturers must be able to show that packaging meets the requirements, with technical documentation and a declaration of conformity.
- Substances: limits for heavy metals and restrictions on substances of concern; PFAS limits for food-contact packaging.
- Identification: information on the manufacturer or importer must be available.
- Registration: national packaging registration and extended producer responsibility (EPR) continue to apply – in Germany via the LUCID register under the VerpackG.
What comes later?
| Requirement | Expected start |
|---|---|
| Harmonised packaging labelling | 2028 |
| Packaging minimisation (weight and volume) | 1 January 2030 |
| Max. 50% empty space in e-commerce and transport packaging | 1 January 2030 |
| Recycled content and recyclability targets | From 2030 |
Some details, such as the method for calculating empty space, are still being defined in implementing acts. Dates can therefore still shift.
How to prepare your shipping packaging
- Review your carton sizes against your product dimensions and reduce oversize where possible.
- Measure void fill: under the empty-space rule, filling material such as paper or air cushions counts as empty space.
- Collect supplier documentation for the packaging materials you use.
- Check your registrations in every country you ship to, including marketplaces that verify EPR numbers.
The role of your fulfillment partner
Under the empty-space rule, the obligation lies with the operator who fills the packaging. In outsourced fulfillment, packaging choice therefore becomes a shared topic between seller and warehouse. At Grexon we pack product- and brand-specifically and can review carton formats together with you – so you are prepared for 2030 without changing everything at once.
Frequently asked questions
Does the 50% empty-space limit already apply?
No. According to the regulation, the cap for e-commerce and transport packaging applies from 1 January 2030. The calculation method is still being finalised.
Do I still need to register in LUCID in Germany?
Yes. National packaging registration and producer responsibility continue to apply alongside the PPWR.
Is there an exemption for small companies?
There is no general exemption for small or micro companies from the core obligations.
Need fulfillment or storage in Germany?
Tell us about your products and volumes – our team will prepare a tailored offer.
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