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Disposal of transport packaging

Transport packaging protects goods during transport between manufacturers, retailers and logistics centres. It typically arises at commercial points of generation (e.g. retail warehouses, construction sites, hospitality businesses) rather than as packaging waste in private households.

Under the PPWR, manufacturers and distributors are required to take back this packaging and ensure it is sent for recovery/recycling. At national level, the Packaging Law Implementation Act (VerpackDG) sets out in particular competent authorities and enforcement, as well as supplementary provisions within the framework of EU requirements.

The aim is to prevent waste, strengthen recycling and thereby secure valuable raw materials.

Obligations at a glance

  • Registration in the LUCID packaging register
  • Ensure transport packaging is taken back (from customers)
  • Return of materials to the circular system
  • Evidence and reporting requirements

The principle

Producers and distributors are required to take back transport packaging from their commercial customers after use. The producer or distributor organises collection or provides collection points. The packaging is then sorted, recycled or reused. Evidence of volumes and recovery methods must be kept and reported regularly to ensure transparency and legal certainty.

Note (from 2028 – Producer Responsibility Organisations): In the future, approved Producer Responsibility Organisations (PROs) are expected to play a role in the take-back and recovery of transport packaging. As the details and authorisation criteria are still being defined, we are closely monitoring developments and aligning our processes early – so that B2B take-back continues to be organised reliably and companies can meet their obligations consistently.

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Case study – plastic strapping in a circular system

Obligation

The producer remains responsible for take-back and disposal.

Waste generation

When a delivery is unpacked in a shop, the strapping becomes packaging waste.

Storage and collection

The producer is responsible for taking back and disposing of the strapping.

Recovery

The material is sorted, recycled and processed into plastic granules, which are used to make new packaging or products.
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As this example shows, transport packaging is a key link in the circular economy – taking it back properly ensures that
valuable raw materials are not lost.
More about the recycling options
Material flows
clozed loopTM

The PPWR creates a single EU framework.

With the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), which will apply from 12 August 2026, transport packaging and commercial packaging will also come more strongly into focus. Going forward, producers and importers will need to demonstrate across the EU that such packaging is recyclable, that take-back systems are in place, and that the quantities collected are reported transparently.

Harmonised rules

No more patchworks of national regulations
– the same requirements for all member states.

Less effort

Standardised reports and formats will reduce bureaucracy and save time.

More certainty

Legal certainty in all EU countries thanks to
clear and binding standards.

In summary:

 The EU-wide requirements of the PPWR are supplemented in Germany, from 12 August 2026, by the national implementation and enforcement provisions set out in the VerpackDG. Any business that delivers goods in multiple member states must prepare to meet harmonised, stricter requirements – both in the design of transport packaging, particularly with regard to reusability, and in terms of
evidence and reporting obligations.

Learn more about the PPWR

We’re here to help you.

We can take care of everything – from organisation to implementation, enabling you to fulfil your take-back and recycling obligations for transport packaging confidently, efficiently and without complications.
Bespoke advice
Analysis of your packaging flows, tailor-made take-back solutions, synergies with sales packaging and clozed loop™
Take-back and disposal
Network covering all of Germany, flexible pick-ups, direct collection where the waste is generated, legally compliant waste recovery
Compliance and reporting
Ongoing advice on legal changes, transparent volume reports,
one-stop online portal
Sustainability and circular resource management
Reprocessing of recyclable materials, reduction of carbon emissions, contribution to resource conservation
The benefits for you: reduced organisational burden, cost control and certainty that you’re meeting all your obligations.
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Geschäftsmeeting mit mehreren Personen in moderner Büroumgebung – konzentrierte Diskussion und gemeinsame Strategiebesprechung.
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Zentek – 360° service for transport packaging

The Zentek Group offers practical support for the legally compliant return and recycling of transport packaging. This includes the organisation and documentation of return processes, individual industry solutions and services for the efficient fulfilment of legal requirements along the supply chain.

Zentek transport packaging
360 Service
Support you can rely on.
You want to be certain that processes are effective, rules are followed and help is available whenever you need it. Our transparent, reliable and practical services are designed to satisfy all of these needs.
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Expertise

We continuously analyse and adapt to the latest requirements and market developments. We help companies understand which requirements are relevant to them now and which will be in the future.
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Advice

We take a practical approach to resolving individual issues, developing specific recommended actions that combine legal certainty with cost-effectiveness.
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Legal certainty

All processes – from packaging design to volume reporting – are based on current requirements. Companies act in compliance with the rules at all times.
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Implementation

From dual-system participation to reporting, in addition to planning measures, we also provide operational support until quantifiable results are achieved.
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Efficiency

Complex processes are structured, digitally supported and clearly documented. This reduces internal effort and creates space for core business activities.
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    Work with us and we will offer you advice and support. Our team of experienced experts is always available to answer your questions.
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