21 september 2026 – The rules surrounding packaging are changing. With the PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation), the European Union aims to reduce packaging waste, encourage reuse and make packaging more recyclable. The regulation has been generally applicable since 12 August 2026. Various requirements will be introduced gradually over the coming years.
What is the PPWR?
The PPWR is European legislation covering packaging and packaging waste. The rules apply to the entire lifecycle of packaging: from design and production to use, collection and processing.
The aim is to reduce packaging waste and encourage the use of recycled materials and reusable packaging. From 2030, all packaging placed on the European Union market must be recyclable. The PPWR applies to all EU Member States.
What is changing?
The PPWR does not only set requirements for the materials used in packaging. The amount of material, packaging design and processing after use will also become increasingly important. The main changes include:
- Less packaging material: unnecessary empty space and excessive packaging must be reduced.
- Recyclable packaging: from 2030, packaging must be recyclable and capable of being collected and processed on a large scale.
- More recycled content: minimum percentages of recycled content will apply to certain types of plastic packaging.
- More reuse: reuse targets will be introduced for various types of packaging and applications.
- Clearer labels: a European packaging labelling system will be introduced gradually from 2028. These labels must clearly indicate which materials the packaging contains and how it should be disposed of.
- Restrictions on certain packaging: some types of single-use or unnecessary packaging will be restricted or prohibited.
The exact obligations vary depending on the material, application and type of packaging. The rules will also not all take effect at the same time. As a result, the impact of the PPWR will differ from one business to another.
What does this mean for your logistiscs process?
Almost every business that uses packaging or places packaged products on the European market will be affected by the PPWR. This includes online retailers that ship orders directly to consumers, as well as businesses that store, transport or supply goods to other companies.
For e-commerce businesses, this means, for example, taking a more critical look at using large boxes for small orders. However, using less packaging material does not automatically mean that packaging should be as small or lightweight as possible. It must still provide sufficient protection for the product. If products are damaged because the packaging is too lightweight, this can lead to additional returns, replacement deliveries and waste. It is therefore important to consider the entire logistics process, from storage and order processing to transport and returns.
What do you need to arrange?
The steps you need to take depend partly on how your logistics process is organised.
If you manage your own logistics: Start by identifying which types of packaging you use and what they are used for. Consider not only the material, but also the dimensions, the amount of empty space, recyclability and the available product information. You can then assess where changes may be required and record the relevant data.
It is important not to view packaging separately from the logistics process. Smaller or lighter packaging may save material, but it must still provide sufficient protection during storage and transport.
If you outsource your fulfilment or logistics: A fulfilment partner can take care of many practical packaging-related activities. These may include purchasing and stocking packaging materials, selecting a suitable box for each order and recording relevant data.
It is still important to agree clearly on:
- who determines the packaging specifications;
- which information and documentation must be available;
- who records and provides the relevant data;
- how changes to legislation or packaging materials will be implemented.
Discussing these matters in good time helps prevent uncertainty and enables you to determine together which changes may be required. The PPWR is not a one-off change, but an ongoing development that will continue to take shape over the coming years. A clear overview of your packaging and clearly defined agreements throughout the supply chain are therefore important first steps.
Well prepared for the new rules
The packaging used within our fulfilment and logistics processes complies with the applicable regulations. If anything changes that affects our processes or our agreements with customers, we will let you know in good time and discuss any changes that may be required. This helps you stay well prepared without having to monitor every development yourself.
Do you have any questions about your situation? Feel free to contact us!
