Sun Packaging, Tape, Boxes, Mailing Bags Essex and UK

PPWR | Guidance for EU Packaging compliance

The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) (Regulation (EU) 2025/40) is a new EU law replacing the previously Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive (PPWD). It entered into force on 11 February 2025. Initial requirements will apply from 12 August 2026, with further requirements coming into application through a phased approach until 2040.

PPWR aims to ensure:

  • packaging must be recyclable, minimally wasteful, and clearly labelled
  • recycled content targets for plastic packaging by 2030 and 2040
  • reuse or refill options must be offered for certain products
  • avoidance of unnecessary packaging and harmful substances

Why it matters...

UK exporters will need to comply with PPWR when selling any packaged goods to the EU. Non-compliance could result in goods being rejected at EU borders. PPWR covers all aspects of packaging, including labelling, recyclability, and reusability.

It is important that UK exporters review PPWR requirements and ensure that they are compliant with the relevant requirements prior to 12 August 2026. 

Sun Packaging, Tape, Boxes, Mailing Bags Essex and UK

Who should comply?

The regulation applies to:

  • all businesses placing packaging on the EU market, including manufacturers, importers, distributors, and retailers
  • all packaging types: primary, secondary, tertiary, and service packaging
  • micro-enterprises: Subject to lighter rules but still required to meet core obligations

UK exporters must also comply with EU Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) rules when exporting to the EU. This involves registering with the national authority in the EU country of sale to provide data on packaging type, weight, recyclability, and recycled content.

Action checklist

1Understanding obligations:
Research into EPR scheme requirements in your EU market country (thresholds, fees etc.)
2Register with relevant EPR schemes:
Register and report packaging data to national EPR schemes and pay relevant fees. Consider whether an authorised representative needs to be appointed who can manage EPR obligations locally
3Assess your packaging:
Evaluate your packaging against PPWR criteria and national EPR guidelines
4Prepare documentation:
Prepare a Declaration of Conformity for each packaging type that will be placed on the market from 12 August 2026, and ensure you have the necessary technical documentation to demonstrate compliance with the requirements that will apply from 12 August 2026
5Data collection and reporting:
Ensure all relevant data required by PPWR and EPR are collected in a timely manner and that records are kept
Sun Packaging, Tape, Boxes, Mailing Bags Essex and UK

Where we can help

As a supplier of packaging for over 50 years, Sun Packaging are able to supply full specification sheets detailing required compliance for EU PPWR.

If you ship to EU countries and require documentation, get in touch with us.

Why work with us?

50+ Years of Experience

We have been industry experts in bespoke packaging in the UK for over 50 years, making us your first choice.

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All of our bespoke packaging in the UK services are underpinned by competitive and cost-effective pricing.

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Here at Sun Packaging, we are specialists in bespoke packaging in the UK and will have something to suit you.

Range of Services

From Packaging Supplies and Custom Mailing Bags to Sugar Cane Plastic, we have the services for you.

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We are committed to delivering the highest standards of bespoke packaging in the UK possible.

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We supply bespoke packaging in Chelmsford, Brentwood, Southend, and Basildon or anywhere in the UK.

Page last updated 21st September 2026. Next page review 1st November 2026. Get in touch with us today for more information.