Regulation (EU) 2025/40 on packaging and packaging waste entered into
force on 11 February 2025 and applies from 12 August 2026. The Packaging
and Packaging Waste Regulation, commonly called the PPWR, covers
packaging regardless of material or origin, including industrial, retail
and transport packaging.
For pet, equestrian and webbing hardware, the regulation does not
change the geometry of a buckle or snap hook. It changes the questions
that brands and importers should ask about the bags, dividers, cartons,
labels and transport packaging surrounding those parts.
What the PPWR is designed to
do
The official EUR-Lex summary says the regulation establishes
sustainability and labelling requirements across the packaging life
cycle. It aims to prevent unnecessary packaging, promote reuse and
recycling, and harmonise rules across the EU.
The summary also states that packaging must be designed to minimise
weight and volume while maintaining functionality. Recyclability
performance grades begin from 2030, and manufacturers and importers have
documentation and conformity responsibilities.
Not every obligation starts on the same date. Buyers should therefore
avoid reducing the PPWR to a single slogan such as “plastic-free by
2026.” The practical task is to identify each packaging layer, assign
responsibility and maintain the information needed for the applicable
deadline.
Packaging
layers in a typical hardware shipment
| Layer | Example | Questions to record |
|---|---|---|
| Unit protection | Paper wrap, small bag or sleeve | Material, weight, recyclability, need for corrosion protection |
| Inner pack | Divided box or grouped bag | Part count, mixed-material elements, empty space |
| Master carton | Corrugated export carton | Board grade, dimensions, gross weight, labels |
| Pallet protection | Stretch film, straps, corner boards | Material and total weight per shipment |
| Consumer packaging | Branded retail card or box | Required markings, languages and responsible operator data |
A practical PPWR readiness
checklist
- Create a packaging bill of materials for each SKU or shipment
configuration. - Record the material and approximate weight of every layer.
- Separate product protection needs from marketing-only
packaging. - Confirm whether paper-based alternatives provide adequate corrosion
and abrasion protection. - Minimise unused volume without increasing damage risk.
- Keep supplier declarations and packaging specifications linked to
the product revision. - Clarify who is the packaging manufacturer, importer and producer for
the relevant obligation. - Review country-level extended producer responsibility registration
with the EU importer or compliance adviser.
Do not
remove protection without validating the result
Metal hardware can scratch, rub or develop surface changes during
ocean transport. Packaging minimisation should not create a higher
defect rate. Test the proposed pack against vibration, compression,
moisture exposure and real packing density. A lighter pack that causes
finish damage or rejected goods is not an effective sustainability
improvement.
For plated parts, confirm whether the current anti-tarnish or
moisture-control method is still required. If a paper-based substitute
is proposed, approve it through a documented packing trial rather than
an assumption.
What to include in an RFQ
Ask suppliers to quote both the part and its packaging configuration.
State unit quantity, inner-pack quantity, master-carton limit, barcode
or label requirements, restricted materials, acceptable alternatives and
any drop or transit test requirements.
Jinxing Hardware can discuss custom packing together with material,
size, finish and product inspection requirements. Final regulatory
responsibility and EU market obligations should be confirmed by the
brand, importer or designated compliance professional.
Frequently asked questions
When does the EU PPWR apply?
Regulation (EU) 2025/40 applies from 12 August 2026, although individual
requirements and targets have different later dates.
Does the PPWR cover transport packaging?
Yes. The regulation covers packaging and packaging waste regardless of
material or origin, including industrial and transport packaging.
Should buyers eliminate all plastic packaging
immediately?
No single answer applies to every product. Buyers should map materials,
minimise unnecessary packaging and confirm protection, recyclability and
applicable legal requirements.
Sources
- EUR-Lex summary, “Packaging and packaging waste (from 2026)”: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/EN/legal-content/summary/packaging-and-packaging-waste-from-2026.html
- Regulation (EU) 2025/40: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2025/40/oj/eng
This article provides general information and is not legal
advice.
