16/10/2026
When do we actually need to do what?
Most PPWR coverage makes it sound like everything happens at once. It is not. Here is the timeline that matters if you use pallets, collars, crates or metal load carriers.
✅ 11 February 2025 - PPWR Entered into force. Criteria for reusable packaging started applying.
✅ 12 August 2026 - Applies across the EU. Declarations of Conformity required.
✅ 12 August 2028 - Harmonised labelling begins, at the earliest. Transport packaging is exempt from consumer waste-sorting labels.
✅ 1 January 2030 - The main cluster. Design-for-recycling grades, packaging minimisation, a 50% empty space limit, and 40% reuse for transport packaging. Transport packaging moving between your own sites must in principle be reusable, though pallet wrapping films and straps are exempt from that rule.
➡️ 1 January 2035 - Packaging must be recyclable at scale.
➡️ 1 January 2038 - Packaging must reach recyclability grade A or B.
➡️ 1 January 2040 - Higher recycled content thresholds. 70% transport reuse as an indicative goal.
Note that much of the detail still depends on delegated and implementing acts the Commission has not published yet. We will update you as they land.
Read more about PPWR implementation at PalletBiz: https://palletbiz.com/insights/ppwr-what-it-means-for-your-packaging-supply-chain/