PPWR: the packaging regulation reshapes your logistics
Adopted 2026-06-14 · ≈ 1 min read · 
edited by Dirk Baaijen
The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR, Regulation (EU) 2025/40) applies from 12 August 2026: stricter packaging requirements, a cap on empty space in e-commerce parcels (max 40%) and reuse targets for transport packaging. What that means for logistics and fulfilment.
The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR, Regulation (EU) 2025/40) affects everyone who packs, ships or stores goods. It entered into force on 11 February 2025 and, after a transition period, applies from 12 August 2026. Unlike a directive, a regulation applies directly — no national transposition needed.
What changes
- Empty space in e-commerce parcels: from 12 August 2026 the empty space
in a parcel may not exceed 40%, unless technically unavoidable.
- Void space in transport packaging: from 2030 the void space (air and
filling material) in transport and shipping packaging may not exceed 50%.
- Reusability: reuse targets apply to transport and industrial packaging
used within the same Member State between establishments of the same operator.
- Plus broader requirements on recyclability and recycled content.
Why it matters for logistics
This is not a marketing matter but an operational one: packaging design, box sizes, filling material, return flows and fulfilment processes must adapt. For e-commerce and warehouse operations the impact is direct.
What it means for you
- E-commerce or fulfilment? Redesign your box and parcel strategy around
the 40% rule before August 2026.
- Transport packaging? Plan the move to reusable systems and less void
space; it will also cut transport and material costs later.
Want to know which EU regimes besides PPWR affect your organisation — the Data Act, eFTI, EMSWe, the AI Act, NIS2 — and where your readiness stands? Take the Transport & Logistics scan.
Sources
- https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2025/40/oj
Regulation (EU) 2025/40 (PPWR): requirements for packaging and packaging waste; applicable from 12 August 2026. - https://environment.ec.europa.eu/topics/waste-and-recycling/packaging-waste_en
European Commission — packaging and packaging waste (PPWR).
Read next
When does the PPWR apply and what should I do now?
The PPWR (Regulation (EU) 2025/40) entered into force on 11 February 2025 and applies from 12 August 2026. From then, empty space in e-commerce parcels is capped at 40%; void space in transport packaging must stay below 50% from 2030.
What is the 40% rule for e-commerce parcels (PPWR)?
The PPWR 40% rule (Regulation (EU) 2025/40) limits the empty space in an e-commerce parcel to a maximum of 40% from 12 August 2026. As a regulation it applies directly, without national transposition.
PPWR: what must I do about reusable transport packaging?
Under the PPWR (Regulation (EU) 2025/40), transport packaging faces new rules: from 12 Aug 2026 e-commerce parcels may hold max 40% empty space, void space drops to 50% from 2030, plus reuse targets. It applies directly, with no national transposition.