PPWR: What the new EU Packaging Regulation means for your order

PPWR: Das bedeutet die neue EU-Verpackungsverordnung für Deine Bestellung
You may have noticed that parcels from the EU have sometimes been taking a little longer to arrive than usual recently. The reason for this has a rather unwieldy name: PPWR, which stands for the new EU Packaging Regulation. We’ll explain what’s behind it in a clear and straightforward way.

What exactly is the PPWR?
PPWR stands for ‘Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation’. Although it came into force in February 2025, most of the obligations have only applied since 12 August 2026.

Unlike an EU directive, a regulation does not first have to be transposed into national law by each country individually – it applies directly and immediately in all 27 EU Member States from the date of entry into force.
The aim behind this is clear: less packaging waste, more easily recyclable materials and a genuine circular economy for packaging across Europe.

Who is this relevant to?
In short: virtually every business that packages goods and ships or sells them within the EU is affected – from small online shops to international corporations. There are no exceptions based on company size or turnover. As a Swiss company, we too are feeling the impact as soon as our partners and suppliers ship goods from the EU.

What has been in force since August 2026?
Since the cut-off date, the focus has been primarily on the obligations regarding evidence and documentation, rather than on the packaging itself.

  • Declarations of conformity: Manufacturers and retailers must officially confirm that their packaging complies with the new requirements. Technical documentation is required for this purpose.

  • Stricter substance limits: Packaging that comes into contact with food may now only contain certain chemicals (PFAS) in very small quantities.

  • Empty Space Rule: In future, shipping boxes may contain no more than 50 per cent empty space, thereby limiting the use of excessive packing material.

  • Authorised representatives in the destination country: Companies that ship goods across borders may be required to appoint a designated contact person in the relevant destination country.

What else is coming?
The biggest changes are yet to come in the next few years. From 1 January 2030, the following, amongst other things, will apply:
  • All packaging on the EU market must be recyclable.

  • Plastic packaging must contain a prescribed minimum proportion of recycled material.

  • Oversized packaging is prohibited – the principle of ‘as much as necessary, as little as possible’ is now mandatory.

  • Mandatory reuse targets will then apply to certain types of packaging.


These deadlines primarily concern the future design and production of packaging. Many manufacturers are already making preparations for this.


What does this mean in practical terms for your delivery?
As the new documentation requirements are a new development, some parcels are currently undergoing additional checks at logistics centres – particularly larger parcels or those classified as bulky goods. This may result in slightly longer delivery times.
The good news is that this is just a temporary transition period, so there’s no need to worry. Your order won’t go missing; it may simply take a few days longer than usual. We’re keeping a close eye on the situation and will let you know as soon as there are any changes to our delivery times.

Do you have any questions about an order that’s currently being processed? Feel free to get in touch with us at any time – we’re here to help!