The European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) is going to radically change the rules of the game for packaging in the coming years. Whereas the current directive offered mainly general frameworks, the PPWR imposes concrete, binding requirements for the design, use and reuse of packaging throughout the EU. This affects not only consumer packaging, but also industrial packaging such as pallets, crates and customized transport boxes.
For many companies, this means a changeover: packaging must become more reusable, more efficient in volume and more recyclable, while also requiring the use of recycled materials. The consequences are great, both operationally and financially, but those who anticipate the new rules now can also gain competitive advantage.
The question is not whether the PPWR will have an impact on your packaging processes, but how quickly you get your organization ready for the deadlines that start to apply as early as 2026.
The PPWR introduces clear and binding requirements that directly affect industrial packaging. For companies working with pallets, crates, reusable flight cases or custom transport cases, these are the key points to consider.
Reuse as standard
Starting in 2030, at least 40 percent of transportation packaging must be reusable within a formal reuse system. This means that packaging must not only be physically strong enough for multiple rotations, but must also be tracked and recorded. Intra-company and national B2B shipments will receive extra attention in this regard, as reuse will become mandatory there.
Limit empty space
The regulation states that packaging volume must be used as efficiently as possible. For transport packaging, a maximum of 50 percent of the volume may consist of empty space. This affects the design of interior interiors, stackability and the use of padding material.
Recyclability and material selection
From 2030, packaging must at least meet recyclability criteria according to a European grading (A, B or C). From 2038, only grades A and B will be allowed. This calls for material choices that promote recycling, such as avoiding composite materials or components that are difficult to separate.
Recycled content in plastic
Minimum requirements for the use of post-consumer recycled material apply to plastic components of packaging. The percentages vary by type of packaging and are increased incrementally toward 2040. This requires timely coordination with suppliers and possible adjustment of production processes.
New labeling and digital information
Packaging must have uniform material labels starting in 2028. Reusable packaging will also have a reuse label from 2029 and often a QR code that provides information on use, maintenance and reuse cycles. This makes digital traceability standard.
The PPWR takes effect in stages, giving companies time to adapt. Still, the first obligations are closer than many organizations think. Here’s the timeline for the industrial packaging Faes works with.
2026 – Start application
As of Aug. 12, 2026, the PPWR is in effect. All new packaging entering the market must meet basic requirements for safety, suitability and minimization of material use.
2028 – Uniform labeling
As of Aug. 12, 2028, packaging must have a uniform material label. This label clearly indicates what material the packaging is made of and how it can be disposed of after use.
2029 – Reuse label and digital information
Starting Feb. 12, 2029, reusable packaging will have a reuse label and often a QR code. This code contains digital information about the packaging’s use, maintenance and reuse cycles.
2030 – Big step in reuse and recyclability
2038 – Further tightening
All packaging must then meet grade A or B for recyclability. Percentages for recycled content are higher than in 2030 and will be matched to material type and application.
The PPWR not only imposes technical and design requirements, but also imposes a significant administrative burden. Reuse rates must be demonstrated, packaging must be labeled and registered, and reporting to regulators and supply chain partners is required. For many companies, this means a new layer of compliance management in addition to their day-to-day operations.
As a Fourth Party Packaging (4PP) partner, we take on the complete management and direction of packaging. We ensure that packaging is used optimally throughout its entire life cycle: from design and use to reuse, cleaning, repair and replacement. Because Faes operates independently, we work with multiple manufacturers and partners. This allows us to always realize the best price-quality, the right specialization and the most sustainable solution for our customers.
Operational advantages
With Faes as a 4PP partner, you have real-time data on rotations, reuse percentages and material flows. This makes it easy to comply with laws and regulations and provides insight to optimize logistics and inventory management. Maintenance, cleaning and replacement are coordinated by Faes and carried out through the most suitable partners. In this way we guarantee continuity with minimal packaging stock and maximum availability.
We also take the administrative handling out of your hands completely. Think of integral invoicing of storage, transport and value added services (such as triage and cleaning), linked to transparent reports and clear agreements. This saves time, prevents delays and creates predictability in the process.
Strategic advantage
By outsourcing packaging management to Faes, you reduce internal pressure and reduce the risk of fines or non-compliance. Our system is set up to meet the requirements of the PPWR and aligns seamlessly with sustainability and ESG goals.
The big advantage: Faes thinks beyond cost savings. By managing packaging smarter and more circularly, we realize value creation for the entire supply chain. Companies benefit from a scalable and proven model in which reuse, material optimization and transparent reporting are guaranteed and in which control always remains with the customer.
The PPWR marks a turning point in the way companies design, deploy and manage packaging. For industrial packaging, it means stricter requirements, higher reuse targets and more administrative obligations. Companies that wait until the first deadlines approach risk costly modifications, compliance problems and missed opportunities.
Acting now and working with an independent 4PP partner makes the transition to future-proof packaging management not only feasible, but also strategically advantageous. As a director, Faes takes on the complete management and coordination of packaging, including tracking, reporting, maintenance and cooperation with the most suitable producers and partners. This way you stay compliant with the PPWR, create cost savings and logistical efficiency, and at the same time strengthen your sustainability and ESG performance.
The time to step in is now. Those who take the first steps today will not face a challenge in 2026, but a head start.
