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    <link href="https://www.lizenzero.de/en/blog/german-packaging-act/?sAtom=1" rel="self" type="application/atom+xml" />
    <author>
        <name>Lizenzero Packaging Licensing</name>
    </author>
    <title>Blog/Atom feed</title>
    <id>https://www.lizenzero.de/en/blog/german-packaging-act/?sRss=1</id>
    <updated>2026-04-17T04:07:04+02:00</updated>
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">How-To-Guide: Packaging licensing in e-commerce – What do online retailers ne...</title>
            <id>https://www.lizenzero.de/en/blog/how-to-guide-packaging-licensing-in-e-commerce-what-do-online-retailers-need-to-do/</id>
            <link href="https://www.lizenzero.de/en/blog/how-to-guide-packaging-licensing-in-e-commerce-what-do-online-retailers-need-to-do/"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            The trade with goods bought on the Internet is constantly increasing. The number of shipped goods in e-commerce is growing every year in the double-digit range. This ongoing boom is casually generating a huge additional mountain of packaging waste. Politicians reacted by intro...
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            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 How-To-Guide: Packaging licensing in e-commerce – What do online retailers need to do? 
 Content: 
 
  Which online retailers are affected by the Packaging Act?  
  Quick check of packaging licensing for online retailers  
  Packaging licensing for online retailers: What changes will the Packaging Act bring to e-commerce companies?  
  Instructions: How online retailers comply with the Packaging Act  
  Packaging Act easily explained: 4 practical cases in e-commerce  
  Legal warnings for online merchants: What penalties are threatened by disregarding the licensing obligation?  
  Online traders can meet their obligations without much effort  
  Packaging Act amendment: is everything different now?  
  What does the term EPR mean and what does it mean for online retailers?  
 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Fast, easy, convenient—online shopping is becoming increasingly important to the general public. People are taking advantage of digital opportunities and ordering more and more online every year. An additional advantage is that consumers don&#039;t even have to leave their homes to receive their orders. Products are delivered right to their doorstep – with some providers, this now even happens on the day of ordering. However, in addition to the many advantages of online shopping for consumers and businesses, there is also a major disadvantage to the boom in shipping: it creates a huge pile of packaging waste from millions of additional boxes, shipping bags, and filling materials. Legislators are responding to the increasing amount of packaging waste with a new, stricter Packaging Act ( VerpackG ), which replaced the previous Packaging Ordinance on January 1, 2019. Since then, non-compliance can be quickly detected by the  LUCID  registration system of the control authority  Zentrale Stelle Verpackungsregister  (Central Agency Packaging Register): This can result in heavy penalties such as warnings, fines of up to EUR 200,000, or even sales bans.   In this blog post, we have therefore summarized the obligations that the Packaging Act entails for you as an online retailer. We also guide you through the licensing process with step-by-step instructions.  
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Which online retailers are affected by the Packaging Act? 
 Every company that uses sales packaging as a so-called initial commercial distributor for the first time and puts it into circulation must participate in a dual system. By paying a &quot; license fee &quot;, the companies contribute to the professional collection, sorting and recycling of their packaging. 
 Affected are online retailers as well as all other companies that put sales packaging into circulation commercially for the first time. This therefore also includes sellers at all possible marketplaces such as eBay, Amazon or Etsy. Since the implementation of the Packaging Act is mandatory from the first packaging, even small online merchants must comply with the new Packaging Act. 
 Checklist: Am I affected? 
 
 Do you manufacture products that you then ship to German end customers? 
 Do you resell products that you purchase from other retailers/manufacturers? 
 Do you import products from abroad and resell them within Germany? 
 Are you not based in Germany yourself, but sell your products to end customers in Germany? 
 Do you use fulfillment service providers? 
 
  If you can answer “yes” to one or more of these questions, you are required to license your packaging in accordance with the VerpackG.   
 Quick check of packaging licensing for online retailers 
 
 The new, stricter Packaging Act came into force on January 1, 2019. 
 Online retailers must license sales packaging that they fill and put into circulation for the first time –  before the first packaging is put into circulation . 
 Sales packaging includes shipping and product packaging including filling materials and packaging components. 
 This system participation takes place in a dual system like Interseroh+ (via its online store for packaging licensing  Lizenzero ). 
 Companies must also register with the  Central Packaging Register Office in the LUCID  database. 
 
   Calculate packaging volumes now   
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Packaging licensing for online retailers: What changes will the Packaging Act bring to e-commerce companies? 
 Basically, the Packaging Act does not change that much. Many of the regulations were already included in the Packaging Ordinance. The aim of the Packaging Act is to increase the quota of recycled packaging, to ensure fair competition and more transparency, and to be able to sanction violations of the new Packaging Act more strictly and more easily. Ultimately, the aim is to make a valuable contribution to the environment through more recycled packaging materials. 
 The greatest innovation of the law is the establishment of the Central Packaging Register office, which serves as a supervisory body for the Packaging Act. Companies have to register in the associated and publicly visible register LUCID (=  registration obligation ). This register can be viewed by customers and competitors and makes violations of the Packaging Act easily visible. 
 Those who have registered with LUCID can proceed to the next step. Subsequently, companies must license their packaging with a dual system (= s ystem participation obligation ). A packaging license for online retailers, for example, can be acquired very easily online via Lizenzero for the dual system Interzero. 
   Conclude now at favourable conditions   
 Finally, online traders must indicate the licensed packaging and the name of the dual system in their LUCID account (=  data reporting obligation ). This has to be done on a continuous basis, as the data provided by the dual system must always match the data in LUCID: So if an adjustment is made in one of the two places, it must be transferred identically to the other. 
  Please Note:  The first amendment to the German Packaging Act has been effective since 03 July 2021. Online retailers who use the services of fulfilment service providers and electronic marketplaces are also affected by the changes. You can find all important information on the new requirements and transition periods in our blog post on the topic of the  German Packaging Act amendment and the changes for online trade . 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Instructions: How online retailers comply with the Packaging Act 
 The exact obligations of the VerpackG are listed below: 
 
  Registration obligation : All companies concerned are obliged to register with the Central Packaging Register Office in the LUCID packaging register (a step-by-step guide can be found here:  Registration at LUCID ). 
  System Participation Obligation : In order to contribute to the professional collection, sorting and recycling of packaging, initial commercial distributors must participate in a dual system such as Interseroh+ via the online store Lizenzero by licensing their sales packaging. 
  Data reporting obligation : Finally, the licensed packaging volumes and the name of the dual system must be entered in the LUCID packaging register. 
 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Packaging Act easily explained: 4 practical cases in e-commerce 
 1. Own online shop 
 As a store operator you ship the goods directly to the private end user? Since you fill the shipping packaging in this case with the ordered goods yourself and put them into circulation, you are under the obligation to implement the VerpackG specifications for the shipping packaging volumes. 
 In addition, you can be responsible for licensing the product packaging if you are also the manufacturer of the goods. Because in this case you also fill the product packaging with the goods, so that you are considered the initial commercial distributor of both forms of packaging and must therefore comply with the obligations for both. 
 2. Fulfilment service provider 
  New regulations of the German Packaging Act Amendment:  The German Packaging Act Amendment, which came into force on 3 July 2021, changes the responsibility for packaging licensing in fulfilment. From  01 July 2022 , fulfilment service providers are no longer obliged to license shipping packaging.&amp;nbsp;The licensing obligation then falls under the responsibility of the commissioning retailers. In addition, fulfilment service providers must check from 1 July 2022 whether their commissioning retailers have fulfilled their system participation obligation. 
 As soon as you are the manufacturer or initial filler of the product packaging, you must fulfil the obligations of the VerpackG for the product packaging. 
 3. Dropshipping 
 Since you as the seller of the goods in the case of dropshipping have no physical contact at any time with any of the packaging put into circulation, since the goods are shipped directly by the producer or wholesaler, you do not need to license either the product or the shipping packaging. 
  Exception : If you as a retailer can be recognized on the outside of the shipping packaging  alone , you must comply with the obligations for this. However, as soon as a shipping service provider is recognizable with you, alone or none of you, the above mentioned explanations apply. 
 4. Import of goods to Germany 
 You are not located in Germany but you sell products to German private customers? Since the Packaging Act applies to all sales packaging that is put into circulation in the German market, you are also affected by the law. 
 Basically it can be said that always the company must comply with the obligations of the VerpackG, which is responsible for the goods  when they cross the border . All imported packaging is then subject to this obligation. Even if this is usually the importer, we recommend that this be recorded in a contract with the partners to eliminate all doubts. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Legal warnings for online merchants: What penalties are threatened by disregarding the licensing obligation? 
 As mentioned at the beginning, one of the biggest innovations of the Packaging Act is the transparency created by the Central Packaging Register Office with its packaging register LUCID. Customers, competitors and competition centers can now easily see which online traders have registered. This is to create fair competition. 
 If an online trader does not behave according to the rules, he can be warned. In addition, the new Packaging Act will result in some considerable penalties for mail order companies in the form of fines and bans on sales. A violation of the law counts as an administrative offence and can be punished with a fine of up to 200,000 euros per case according to §34 VerpackG. Online traders and all tradespeople who bring sales packaging into circulation should therefore be absolutely sure to observe their obligations. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Online traders can meet their obligations without much effort 
 What looks like a lot of work at first glance can be done in a few minutes in practice. Registration with the Central Packaging Register Office can be carried out online in just a few steps, free of charge and in compliance with the law. And the subsequent licensing of packaging volumes in a dual system can also be done conveniently on the Internet. With Lizenzero, online retailers can create a  customer account  in just a few steps, determine their packaging volumes including the associated license fee without obligation using a  calculation assistant  and  calculator , and thus conveniently implement their System Participation Obligation. 
 This way, companies can quickly and easily make a contribution to recycling and the environment – and have more time to concentrate on their business and their customers. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Packaging Act amendment: is everything different now? 
 The amendment, which came into force on July 3, 2021, has brought about a number of changes and additions to the Packaging Act. The following are particularly important for you as online retailers: 
  Control obligation for electronic marketplaces (e.g., Amazon, eBay, Etsy)  Since July 1, 2022, operators of electronic marketplaces have had a control obligation with regard to the Packaging Act. Specifically, this means that marketplaces will in future check whether retailers who sell their products to German end consumers are complying with their registration and system participation obligations. If they cannot provide the relevant evidence, a sales ban will apply. 
  Control obligations and new responsibilities for fulfillment service providers  Even if you use fulfillment services for shipping your goods, new obligations apply, as fulfillment service providers have also been subject to control requirements since July 1, 2022. As the commissioning retailer, you must also provide proof of licensing for your packaging and registration in the LUCID packaging register if you sell goods to German end consumers. If you do not have this proof, fulfillment service providers are not allowed to perform services such as storage, packaging, or shipping for you. In addition, you as a retailer are now responsible for licensing the shipping packaging without exception, and no longer the fulfillment service providers, as was previously possible in individual cases.   
 What does the term EPR mean and what does it mean for online retailers? 
 EPR stands for Extended Producer Responsibility. It is based on the principle of product responsibility, which retailers and manufacturers must fulfill for their products. Important to know: Not only the product itself, but also all packaging and (product) components that are put into circulation and disposed of by end consumers are covered by EPR. The requirements for packaging are explained in detail in this article. In addition to packaging, this extended producer responsibility must also be fulfilled in Germany for electrical appliances (WEEE) and batteries.  Similar to the Packaging Act, there have also been adjustments to the legal texts for batteries (BattG) and electrical appliances (ElektroG). The control obligations that have already applied to packaging on marketplaces since July 2022 have been extended to batteries and electrical appliances since January 2023. Online retailers must also be able to provide appropriate EPR evidence for these goods. There are separate registration and participation procedures for batteries and electrical appliances. More information on the requirements for batteries and WEEE can be found  here . 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2025-09-08T12:00:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Amendment of the German Packaging Act (VerpackG): changes in force since 3 Ju...</title>
            <id>https://www.lizenzero.de/en/blog/amendment-of-the-german-packaging-act-verpackg-changes-in-force-since-3-july-2021/</id>
            <link href="https://www.lizenzero.de/en/blog/amendment-of-the-german-packaging-act-verpackg-changes-in-force-since-3-july-2021/"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Around two and a half years after it initially came into force, the first amendment to the Packaging Act (also known as VerpackG2) took effect. Many of the changes affect retailers who sell their goods to private end customers. Since then, they have been subject to an extensio...
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            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 Amendment of the German Packaging Act (VerpackG): Changes in force since 3 July 2021 
 Content: 
 
  An overview of changes in the Packaging Act Amendment  
  What evidence do you need to provide to your marketplace  
  Obligation to monitor and clarify responsibilities in fulfilment  
  Conclusion – Amendment to the Packaging Act  
 
  Around two and a half years after it initially came into force, the first amendment to the Packaging Act (also known as VerpackG2) took effect. Many of the changes affect retailers who sell their goods to private end customers. Since then, they have been subject to an extension of the existing registration, verification and documentation requirements. However, distributors of transport packaging in the wholesale sector are also affected by the change in the law. We have compiled a list of the specific changes in the amendment to the Packaging Act (VerpackG2) and what you need to know about them.  The Packaging Act (VerpackG) came into force in January 2019. Since then, initial distributors of packaging, such as brick-and-mortar retailers and online retailers, have been required to register in the LUCID database of the Central Agency Packaging Register (ZSVR). As not all of them complied with this obligation, the Federal Environment Ministry passed the  Packaging Act Amendment  (VerpackG2), which came into force in July 2021 and further tightened the original law. Online retailers, operators of electronic marketplaces and fulfilment service providers are particularly affected. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 An overview of changes in the Packaging Act Amendment 
 The Packaging Act Amendment affects both smaller-scale retailers and B2B traders. We cover the most important changes in this article: 
 Section 3 paragraph 14 a-c: New definitions 
 One change introduced by the Amendment is to provide more precise definitions of terms such as ‘electronic marketplace’, ‘fulfilment service provider’ and ‘authorised representation’. These definitions also clarify the intended targets of many of the other changes introduced in 2021: both  online retailers  who operate their own online shops and distributors who are active on  digital marketplaces  will find it significantly more difficult to avoid their various product responsibilities in the future. In cases where shipping is delegated – with Fulfilment by Amazon for example – merchants now bear significantly more responsibility for ensuring compliance with the Packaging Act. 
  Since July 2022 , retailers selling via electronic marketplaces must provide their platform operators with proof of packaging licensing. Operators such as Amazon, eBay and Etsy have a legal obligation to ensure compliance with the Packaging Act (VerpackG) requirements. Without valid proof, retailers are no longer allowed to sell goods on these platforms. 
  Fulfilment service providers have also had a monitoring obligation since 2022 . They may only provide their services if the commissioning retailers can prove that they have a valid registration in the LUCID packaging register (‘EPR number’) and a certificate of participation in the dual system. This finally clarifies that retailers, and never fulfilment service providers, are solely responsible for licensing. 
 Section 7 paragraph 7: Extensions to the prohibition on distributing packaging subject to dual system requirements 
 If a merchant wishes to use packaging subject to mandatory licensing, they must register with a  dual system  and complete the  LUCID registration  process at the Central Agency Packaging Register before the initial distribution of these materials on the German market. This also applies to foreign distributors who ship to consumers in Germany. The changes explicitly prohibit the distribution of packaging subject to mandatory participation in a dual system by merchants (such as those operating online marketplaces) who are in breach of their Packaging Act duties. Accordingly, marketplaces such as Amazon and Etsy are now required to check compliance on the part of their merchants. In addition, fulfilment service providers also need proof of system participation from their merchant customers. 
 Section 9: Scope widened for duty to register 
 For packaging materials not subject to mandatory dual system participation, such as transport packaging, packaging for products containing hazardous substances and packaging subject to the deposit for non-refillable containers, the Amendment now requires initial distributors to register this packaging at the Central Agency Packaging Register. To fulfil this duty, the amended Packaging Act makes it possible to appoint an authorised representative, whose details are then published in the Register. Another change affects final distributors of  service packaging , such as smaller food retailers or owners of bars, restaurants and other food service outlets, who now also need to register with the LUCID database. 
  This regulation has been in force since 1 July 2022 . Packaging that is not subject to system participation must now also be registered, such as transport packaging, sales and outer packaging that does not end up with end customers, packaging that is incompatible with the system, packaging containing harmful substances, reusable packaging and disposable beverage packaging subject to a deposit. Quantities only need to be specified for packaging that is subject to system participation. 
 Section 15 paragraphs 1 and 3: New duties in relation to information, submission, proof and record-keeping 
 A significant tightening of the existing law affects B2B distributors and the transport packaging they use, such as crates, pallets and plastic films, plus sales/secondary packaging generated in a commercial context and reusable packaging. Subject to strict duties regarding information, submission, proof and record-keeping, these distributors must now also submit proof of compliance with take-back and recycling requirements. Anyone supplying private consumers with transport packaging and packaging incompatible with dual systems, such as packaging for fridge freezers or sofas, must give these users more detailed information about options for returning packaging. 
 Section 30a: Minimum proportion of recycled materials 
 Non-reusable plastic (PET) beverage bottles must now have a minimum proportion of recycled content. The applicable figures are 25 percent by weight by 1 January 2025 and 30 percent by weight by 1 January 2030. 
 Section 31: Wider scope for mandatory deposit 
 The amended 2021 Packaging Act also extends the mandatory deposit to non-reusable plastic bottles and cans for beverages. This change applies from 1 January 2022; a transitional period during which no deposit is required will be in force until 1 July 2022 for packaging still in circulation. An exception is made for milk and dairy products, which will not need a deposit until 1 January 2024. 
 Section 33: Mandatory use of reusable packaging 
 Bars, restaurants and other food service packaging outlets typically use very short-lived service packaging to package food products. From 1 January 2023, the amended Act requires sector businesses to offer reusable packaging as an option for packaging takeaway food, so as to reduce the consumption of non-reusable packaging. A partial exemption applies to small businesses with up to five employees and retail space not exceeding 80 m². These retailers are not required to offer a reusable packaging option but must provide a filling service for receptacles brought by consumers. 
 Section 35 paragraph 2: Authorised representation 
 In accordance with section 35 (2), manufacturers not domiciled in Germany may now appoint authorised representatives to fulfil their duties. This does not apply to the duty of registration, however. These authorised representatives are then considered to be manufacturers for the purposes of Packaging Act duties.   
 What evidence do you need to provide to your marketplace 
  Proof 1:  After registering with the LUCID packaging register, you will receive your individual LUCID registration number (also known as an ‘EPR number’). This is your proof that you have fulfilled the registration requirement. (You must enter this number in your seller account.)&amp;nbsp; Proof 2: Certificate of participation in the dual system. Once you have completed your licence agreement with Lizenzero and entered the LUCID registration number in your Lizenzero customer account, you will receive a certificate of participation in the dual system.   Proof 2:  Certificate of participation in the dual system. Once you have concluded your licence agreement with Lizenzero and entered your LUCID registration number in your Lizenzero customer account, you can download your Lizenzero certificate of participation in PDF format under ‘Documents’. This is your proof that you have fulfilled the licensing requirement. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Obligation to monitor and clarify responsibilities in fulfilment 
 Since July 2022, the commissioning retailers have always been responsible for packaging licensing. Under no circumstances is the fulfilment service provider responsible for packaging licensing. Just like marketplace operators, fulfilment service providers are also obliged to monitor their retailers with regard to the fulfilment of their obligations. If no proof of full licensing can be provided, fulfilment service providers may not perform any services for the retailers. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Conclusion – Amendment to the Packaging Act 
 The changes introduced by the 2021 German Packaging Act represent a tightening of the existing regulations that aims to close loopholes and encourage large-scale registration in LUCID as well as participation in a dual system on the part of all companies who either utilise packing materials or who are the initial distributors of such packaging. Not least because recycling and environmental protection can only be assured if the distributors of packaging take an active part in the process of recycling and reuse 
   License your packaging today!   
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            </content>

                            <updated>2025-08-21T13:30:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Sustainable commercial packaging: Circular instead of single use</title>
            <id>https://www.lizenzero.de/en/blog/what-is-transport-packaging-an-explanation-of-terms-disposal-and-materials/</id>
            <link href="https://www.lizenzero.de/en/blog/what-is-transport-packaging-an-explanation-of-terms-disposal-and-materials/"/>
            <summary type="html">
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                                            How is packaging used to transport goods from retailer to retailer classified under the Packaging Act (VerpackG)? And what do companies need to consider when taking back packaging? We provide an overview and answer the most important questions.
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 Sustainability and the circular economy: The often underestimated role of commercial and transport packaging 
 Contents: 
 
  What are commercial and transport packaging?  
  Commercial packaging in the cycle: How it works  
  Legal framework for transport packaging  
  How to take action – tips for more sustainable transport  
  Conclusion: Commercial packaging – an underestimated lever for sustainability  
 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Packaging as the key to sustainable business? Commercial packaging such as pallets, plastic film and cardboard boxes accompany almost every delivery of goods, whether in e-commerce, brick-and-mortar retail or industry. And they have a large ecological footprint. 
 However, by rethinking the design, use and return of this packaging, you can make a measurable contribution to resource conservation while also preparing for upcoming legal requirements. 
 How is packaging used to transport goods from retailer to retailer classified under the Packaging Act ( VerpackG )? And what do companies need to consider when taking back packaging? We provide an overview and answer the most important questions. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 What are commercial and transport packaging? 
 Commercial and transport packaging refers to all packaging that is not used by private consumers, but  rather in retail, industry or by logistics service providers . It accompanies products on their journey from the manufacturer to the point of sale – and sometimes even beyond.   They are therefore used to transport goods between individual stages of trade, commerce and craftsmanship, and are generally used in the  B2B  (business-to-business) sector. They protect products from damage and weather influences and help to ensure that goods can be transported safely. &amp;nbsp;   Typical examples of commercial packaging are:  
 
 Sturdy cardboard boxes for B2B shipping 
 Transport packaging made of wood or plastic 
 Reusable transport packaging, e.g. stackable plastic boxes or folding crates 
 Wooden pallets such as Euro pallets (flat pallets) 
 Barrels and canisters made of wood, metal or plastic 
 Bags and foam trays 
 Anti-condensation bags to protect against condensation 
 Packaging to protect against electrostatic discharge (ESD packaging) 
 Wrapping films, protective films and foam inserts 
 Stretch film or strapping bands for securing goods during transport 
 Filling materials such as bubble wrap, foam film or packaging chips 
 
  These types of packaging often have a longer service life than traditional sales packaging used by private consumers, but they are not always recycled in a meaningful way. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Commercial packaging in the cycle: How it works 
 Commercial packaging rarely takes center stage, yet it is a key component of the B2B supply chain and can be a lever for greater sustainability. However, whether it contributes to this depends largely on how it is designed, used and recycled. 
 It is particularly worthwhile for companies that put large quantities of transport packaging into circulation to pay closer attention to its design. One way to promote the circular economy is to use reusable transport packaging. This can be used repeatedly, thereby saving not only waste but also CO₂. The use of recyclable materials such as corrugated cardboard or mono-plastics is also suitable if no reusable solution is available. Companies that actively invest in their return logistics reduce their disposal costs in the long term. 
  In short , those who view commercial packaging as part of a closed cycle turn a legal obligation into a real competitive advantage. And, at the same time, they are preparing themselves for upcoming regulations such as the PPWR, which will require significantly greater recyclability. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Legal framework for transport packaging 
 Anyone who puts packaging on the market bears  responsibility, even in the commercial sector . Transport packaging is subject to different obligations depending on the country and intended use. In Germany, it is regulated by the  Packaging Act (VerpackG)  – in other EU countries, some regulations are comparable, while others are significantly stricter. 
 Commercial and transport packaging in Germany 
 Transport packaging is subject to  take-back obligations (Section 15 of the Packaging Act) , which means that companies that place such packaging on the market must ensure that it is collected and recycled. Anyone who ships transport packaging therefore has what is known as  producer responsibility , which is linked to a take-back obligation and a registration obligation with the  Central Agency Packaging Register . 
 In Germany, we don&#039;t talk about licensing transport packaging, but rather about ‘exempting’ it. This means that manufacturers have to make sure that the packaging they send out – pallets, crates, cartons, wooden boxes, plastic boxes, stretch film – is collected from the recipients after use and then sent for recycling. 
 Furthermore, the final distributors of transport packaging are subject to an  information obligation . Here, end consumers must be provided with comprehensive information about the return options for transport packaging and its purpose. 
 In addition, there is a duty to  provide evidence . This means that companies must keep records proving that they have complied with their take-back and recycling requirements. The evidence must be presented to the competent state authorities upon request. 
 Commercial packaging in other EU countries 
 More and more countries are extending their EPR (extended producer responsibility) regulations to  commercial packaging .    Examples:  
 
  France : Since 2025, transport and outer packaging in the B2B sector has also been subject to system participation. 
  Spain : New registration and labelling requirements have also applied to commercial packaging since 2025. 
 
 Transport packaging in the context of the PPWR 
 The planned EU Packaging Regulation ( PPWR ) will introduce significantly stricter requirements for all packaging, including transport packaging. Plans include: 
 
 Reducing empty space in packaging 
 Minimum standards for design for recycling 
 Reusable quotas for certain transport packaging (e.g. in mail order) 
 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 How to take action – tips for more sustainable transport 
 Commercial packaging doesn&#039;t just have to be functional; it can also be a real driver of sustainability in your supply chain. A strategic approach to packaging management not only saves resources and CO₂, but also future-proofs your business.    Here are five practical approaches you can start with right away:    Review and reduce packaging materials : Not all packaging is necessary – and not all materials are useful. Ask yourself: 
 
 Can we make packaging smaller or lighter? 
 Are there materials with better recyclability (e.g. monomaterial instead of mixed materials)? 
 Can the use of plastic be reduced by using wooden transport packaging or paper alternatives? 
 
   Switch to reusable transport packaging : Single-use packaging generates a lot of waste – especially with recurring B2B deliveries. The solution: reusable transport packaging, e.g.: 
 
 Foldable plastic boxes 
 Stackable crates with QR code tracking 
 Robust pallet frames made of wood or metal 
 
   Tip: Reusable systems are particularly worthwhile for fixed delivery relationships, such as between central warehouses and branches.     Establish return logistics : Reusable packaging only fulfils its ecological potential if it is returned. Therefore: 
 
 Consider return processes (e.g. via reverse logistics or partner companies) 
 Introduce tracking systems 
 Establish clear responsibilities within the company    
 
  Actively improve recyclability : Recycling starts with design. Take the opportunity to design packaging for recycling right from the start: 
 
 Separable materials 
 No unnecessary coatings or labels 
 Standardised formats and materials that can be recognised in the sorting process 
 
   Think internationally when it comes to compliance : Does your commercial packaging leave the United Kingdom? Then check early on: 
 
 Is there an EPR registration requirement in the destination country? 
 Does the packaging need to be labelled? 
 What are the requirements in France or Spain, for example, for take-back and reusable quotas? 
 
  With a good overview of your packaging flows and country-specific requirements, you can ensure that you are operating sustainably and in compliance with the law across borders. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Conclusion: Commercial packaging – an underestimated lever for sustainability 
 Packaging intended for transport from retailer to retailer is often bulky, heavy and elaborately designed to provide the best possible protection for the goods being transported. Distributors and retailers must ensure that the materials are disposed of properly (and, since 1 July 2022, register with the  LUCID reporting register ). Those who do not wish to take action themselves to ensure that their packaging is recycled correctly can commission  a specialist environmental service provider such as  Interzero   to take on this task. As a rule, the packaging used is then collected directly from customers and recycled where possible or, if recycling is not possible, disposed of in accordance with the law. 
 Sustainability does not begin with the product, but with the packaging. Those who rely on clever systems, reusable materials and clear processes for commercial packaging save costs, fulfil their obligations – and noticeably improve their own environmental balance. 
 Working together with Interzero for a sustainable future 
 With over 30 years of experience,  Interzero  is the go-to company in the market for the return and recycling of transport packaging. Would you like to know how your commercial packaging can be made more sustainable and compliant with the law? We can help you analyse packaging flows, identify potential for optimisation and prepare for upcoming regulations such as the new EU Packaging Regulation (PPWR). 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2025-08-07T13:00:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">PPWR Guide: How to Prepare for the New EU Packaging Regulation</title>
            <id>https://www.lizenzero.de/en/blog/eu-plans-new-regulations-for-packaging-the-ppwr-at-a-glance/</id>
            <link href="https://www.lizenzero.de/en/blog/eu-plans-new-regulations-for-packaging-the-ppwr-at-a-glance/"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            This guide offers you a concise overview of the most important aspects of the PPWR, explains key terms and deadlines, and outlines how you can prepare for the upcoming changes from 2026 onwards.
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            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                   
 PPWR Guide: How to Prepare for the New EU Packaging Regulation 
 Contents: 
 
  What is the PPWR?  
  Who is affected by the PPWR – terms explained  
  What changes and when under the PPWR?  
  Key terms made simple  
  PPWR Conclusion: Act now – not later  
 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 The   Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR)   is a comprehensive reform of the European Union’s packaging rules. Its main goals: to significantly reduce packaging waste in the EU, improve recyclability and promote a truly circular economy. 
 For retailers, manufacturers and any business placing packaged products on the EU market—whether in-store or online—the new regulation brings a range of new obligations, deadlines and requirements that must be addressed early. Unlike the previous Packaging Directive, the PPWR is a regulation, meaning it is legally binding across all EU member states without the need for national transposition. 
 This guide offers you a concise overview of the most important aspects of the PPWR, explains key terms and deadlines, and outlines how you can prepare for the upcoming changes from 2026 onwards. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 What is the PPWR? 
 The  Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation  is a new EU-wide regulation adopted by the European Parliament and Council. It replaces the previous   Packaging Directive (94/62/EC)   and establishes uniform rules for the marketing, design and disposal of packaging. The regulation was published in the Official Journal on 22 January 2025 and entered into force 20 days later, on 10 February 2025. After an 18-month transition period, the new PPWR requirements will apply from summer 2026. 
 Key objectives of the PPWR 
 The PPWR’s primary goals are to: 
 
 Significantly reduce packaging waste 
 Improve recyclability 
 Increase the use of reusable packaging 
 
  This aims not only to strengthen the circular economy across the EU but also to reduce resource consumption. The regulation forms part of the  EU Green Deal  and the EU Plastics Strategy, and it specifically targets businesses that  use or place packaging on the market —which includes you as a retailer or manufacturer. 
 What’s new? 
 Unlike the previous directive, the PPWR is a regulation. This means its provisions are  directly applicable in all EU member states , without the need for national laws. While this ensures more legal clarity, it also introduces stricter and more harmonised requirements. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Who is affected by the PPWR – terms explained 
 The PPWR applies to all parties that place or use packaging on the EU market, including: 
 
  Producers : Natural or legal persons who manufacture packaging or a packaged product—or have it developed and produced under their own name or brand. 
  Distributors : Natural or legal persons in the supply chain who make packaging available on the market (excluding producers and importers). 
  Manufacturers : Any producer, importer or distributor who first makes a packaged product available, regardless of sales method. 
  Suppliers : Natural or legal persons who supply packaging or packaging material to producers. 
 
  The PPWR is especially relevant for companies using  product packaging, shipping packaging or service packaging  (e.g. for takeaway services). Dropshippers may also be affected if they influence packaging design or selection.    In short:  anyone selling or distributing products in packaging within the EU must comply with the PPWR—regardless of whether their business is based within or outside the EU.  
 &amp;nbsp; 
 What changes and when under the PPWR? 
 The PPWR introduces a wide range of new requirements with direct impact on retailers and manufacturers. While some rules are still being finalised, not all PPWR provisions will apply from the outset on 12 August 2026.   Here’s a summary of the key upcoming changes:  
 Packaging requirements (Article 5): 
 
 Packaging must be manufactured in a way that minimises the presence of harmful substances. 
 After a set deadline, packaging that comes into contact with food must no longer contain certain PFAS chemicals. 
 
 Recyclability becomes mandatory (Article 6): 
 
 From 2030, all packaging must be designed to be recyclable. 
 From 2035, additional requirements apply: packaging must be collected separately, sortable, and recyclable at scale. 
 Packaging will be classified into three recyclability categories (A–C). 
 Non-recyclable packaging is to be gradually phased out. 
 
 Minimum recycled content in plastic packaging (Article 7): 
 
 From 2030, plastic components must contain a specific percentage of post-consumer recycled content, depending on the packaging type and format. 
 
 Packaging minimisation (Article 10): 
 
 From 1 January 2030, producers and importers must ensure packaging is designed to minimise weight, volume and material use. 
 
 New labelling requirements (Article 12): 
 
 From August 2028, packaging must carry uniform labels to help consumers separate waste correctly. 
 The labelling obligation applies to all packaging components (e.g. lids, films, inserts). 
 Waste symbols will be harmonised across the EU. 
 From 12 February 2029, reusable packaging must carry a label indicating it can be reused. 
 
 Obligations for authorised representatives (Article 17): 
 
 Producers must appoint an authorised representative for each country in which they place packaging on the market. 
 The representative is responsible for holding the EU declaration of conformity and technical documentation for national authorities, and for submitting required information and documents for compliance checks. 
 
 &amp;nbsp; 
   Note : Deadlines may shift depending on the final regulation and national implementation plans. However, it’s strongly recommended to start preparing now.  
   
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Key terms made simple 
 The new EU Packaging Regulation introduces not only new requirements but also many new technical terms. Here are the most important ones, explained in simple terms: 
 
 Recyclability: The ability of packaging to be recycled after use. The PPWR introduces binding criteria, e.g. packaging must be made of mono-materials and must be effectively processed in existing collection and recycling systems. 
  Reusability : Packaging is considered reusable if it can be used multiple times for the same purpose without significant loss of quality. The PPWR introduces binding reuse quotas. 
  Design for Recycling : A core principle of the PPWR. Packaging should be designed for optimal recyclability—avoiding composite materials, ensuring easy separation of components, and using recycling-friendly inks and adhesives. Exact criteria are still being developed. 
  Harmonised Labelling : All packaging must carry uniform EU-wide labels with clear symbols to guide consumers on correct disposal. The aim: consistent sorting, fewer errors, and higher recycling rates. 
  EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) : Even though EPR and PPWR are distinct, they are closely linked. Under EPR, producers take greater responsibility for packaging waste management. The PPWR extends this responsibility further—e.g. through stricter requirements for licensing systems and data reporting. 
 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 PPWR Conclusion: Act now – not later 
 The PPWR marks a major shift in European packaging policy. For retailers, manufacturers and all businesses placing packaging on the EU market, the message is clear:  it’s time to act.  
 While many of the new requirements will only take effect in the coming years, it’s advisable to  review your current packaging solutions now.  Early assessment of compliance, adjustment of processes and gathering the necessary information will help reduce risks and ensure your business stays compliant. 
 These far-reaching obligations also offer an opportunity to design packaging that is more efficient, cost-effective and environmentally friendly. Companies that act early can also gain a competitive edge in an increasingly sustainability-driven market. 
 Our clear recommendation:  use the transition period to align your packaging and processes with PPWR standards . To manage the complex requirements and stay on top of evolving rules, it pays to rely on experienced partners. With l izenzero.eu , you already have your expert EPR compliance service for packaging across the entire EU. 
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2025-07-22T00:00:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">German Packaging Act on Etsy: What online retailers need to consider</title>
            <id>https://www.lizenzero.de/en/blog/german-packaging-act-on-etsy-what-online-retailers-need-to-consider/</id>
            <link href="https://www.lizenzero.de/en/blog/german-packaging-act-on-etsy-what-online-retailers-need-to-consider/"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Etsy is an online marketplace for unusual products on which a number of vendors sell handmade and creative goods. Fashion, jewelry, cosmetic products, art, photography, toys and used goods can be discovered and purchased on the platform. Etsy sellers usually sell for commercia...
                                        ]]>
            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                   
 German Packaging Act on Etsy: What online retailers need to consider 
 Content: 
 
  Overview: The German Packaging Act in relation to Etsy  
  Obligations from the German Packaging Act for Etsy sellers  
  Step-by-step guide: How Etsy sellers act in compliance with the law  
  FAQs: The most important questions about the German Packaging Act on Etsy  
  Sensitive penalties and warnings for violations of the German Packaging Act by Etsy sellers  
  Conclusion: German Packaging Act at Etsy  
 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Etsy is an online marketplace for unusual products on which a number of vendors sell handmade and creative goods. Fashion, jewelry, cosmetic products, art, photography, toys and used goods can be discovered and purchased on the platform. Etsy sellers usually sell for commercial purposes and are small business owners. Accordingly, the rules of the  German Packaging Act  (VerpackG) apply when shipping their products to private end customers in Germany, which imposes certain obligations on the sellers. These requirements are controlled by Etsy. No sales are possible without compliance with the packaging Act. What do distributors of goods have to do in order to comply with the German Packaging Act on Etsy? We have collected the most important information for you. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Overview: The German Packaging Act in relation to Etsy 
 
 Etsy is one of the largest marketplaces for handmade and unusual things on the web, where many small business owners sell their goods by mail. 
  Commercial sellers  who bring packaging into circulation and send it to German customers  must   adhere to the obligations under the German Packaging Act.  
 The obligations include  registering with the  Central Agency Packaging Register.   
 Then the  packaging used for shipping to Germany must be licensed for a fee  before it is placed on the market for the first time with the dual system provider – this is possible via Lizenzero. 
 Lastly, the companies need to  declare the volumes of licensed packaging and the name of the dual system  used in the Central Agency Packaging Register. 
 The point of these measures is that distributors of goods from abroad also  contribute   to the   costs of the environmentally friendly disposal of packaging   materials  in Germany. 
 
 &amp;nbsp; 
   Important  : Etsy as a marketplace must verify compliance with the above-mentioned obligations by its sellers. Therefore, it is necessary to store the LUCID number in the Etsy Seller account. Without this number, a sale to Germany is no longer possible. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Obligations from the German Packaging Act for Etsy sellers 
 The German Packaging Act implements the European Packaging Directive 94/62/EC into German law. In addition to many other aspects, it regulates the disposal of packaging that commercial sellers – including  online retailers  – put into circulation for the first time and sent to private end customers in Germany.  All sales packaging  in which goods are handed over to the end customer, such as outer packaging made of cardboard, paper and cardboard, glass, metal, plastic, wood and composite materials, are affected. 
 The activities in the sector are monitored by the  Central Agency Packaging Register . There, companies that send goods to German end consumers have to register in the  LUCID  database. This is publicly available and can be used by customers and competitors to check the correct registration of a company. The companies then have to register with a dual system such as the dual system Interseroh+ and  license their estimated packaging materials  for the current year. At the beginning of the following year they then have to report back to the dual system and the ZSVR with a volume report on the packaging actually used. 
 These regulations apply expressly to  business with private end customers . For commercial business-to-business sellers who trade with other companies and send items to Germany, separate regulations apply.   
 Step-by-step guide: How Etsy sellers act in compliance with the law 
 
 Etsy sellers  must register   with the Central Agency Packaging Register  in the  LUCID database . 
 Then they  have to register with a dual system  provider such as Interseroh+ via the Onlineshop  Lizenzero . 
 The distributors have to  estimate the materials used in the current year and license them  – the  calculator  from Lizenzero helps to determine the volumes. 
 The  estimated volumes and the name of the dual system must be reported to LUCID.  
  The LUCID number must be stored in the seller account.  In addition, it must be possible to submit the  participation certificate  to confirm system participation if required. 
 The actual volumes of packaging materials used must be  reported  to the dual system provider and the ZSVR at the beginning of the following year. 
 Companies that use very large amounts of packaging (in the range of several tons) must also submit a completeness declaration and have it certified. 
 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 FAQs: The most important questions about the German Packaging Act on Etsy 
 Operators of Etsy shops that are active in the German market and are affected by the obligations of the Packaging Act must unconditionally meet their obligations, even if they have their company headquarters abroad – for example in Great Britain. We have answered the most frequently asked questions for you. 
 1. Who does the Packaging Act apply to? Who is the first distributor according to the Packaging Act? 
 The Packaging Act applies to commercial sellers who, as producers or distributors of products, use previously unlicensed packaging materials for the first time and hand them over to private end users – for example by shipping. Examples of affected companies are online shops and retailers on  marketplaces  such as Etsy, Amazon, Otto and Ebay. But stationary shops are also affected by the Packaging Act. 
 2. Which packaging is covered by the Packaging Act? 
 Basically, all imaginable packaging materials that end up at an end consumer&#039;s household fall under the Packaging Act. In addition to shipping boxes, as they are often used in online shops, the materials also include filling materials, paper, plastics, metals, wood and composite materials, which – if they are being placed on the market for the first time – must be licensed. 
 3. Where can packaging be licensed? 
 Packaging can be licensed with the dual systems in Germany. Licensing can be done conveniently online – for example via Lizenzero, the online shop of the dual system provider Interseroh+. As a company, you can create a customer account in just a few steps and conveniently license your packaging materials. With our calculation assistent you can also easily estimate the amount of packaging to be used in the current year. 
   Calculate your license fee now   
 4. What does a packaging license cost? 
 The costs for the packaging license vary, depending on the amount and type of packaging materials used. Small businesses, such as the operators of Etsy shops who use very small volumes of shipping boxes, can license their materials for as little as  39 euros per year  plus VAT. 
 5. What if I only reuse packaging? 
 When filled with your goods, this packaging becomes shipping or sales packaging. Therefore, you also need to license the reused packaging. Only in the case where you, as a merchant, have concrete proof that the reused packaging has already participated in a system, does the system participation obligation for the reused packaging not apply. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Sensitive penalties and warnings for violations of the German Packaging Act by Etsy sellers 
 Dealers who do not adhere to the relevant rules  face a fine of up to 200,000 euros , depending on the size of the company and the extent of the violation. Companies can also be reported by competitors. In addition, the Central Agency Packaging Register can impose high fines. The German Packaging Act applies just as strictly to Etsy as it does to all other online shops – from the first parcel sent. Sellers on the platform should therefore absolutely meet their obligations. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Conclusion: German Packaging Act at Etsy 
 Due to the boom in online trading, for example on marketplaces like Etsy, the amount of packaging waste is increasing significantly. In particular, the amount of outer boxes that are used by online shops to ship their goods has increased significantly in Germany and all of Europe in recent years. The German government was therefore forced to act. On the one hand, with the new Packaging Act, participation in a dual system in the form of a  cost sharing for the environmentally friendly disposal of participation packaging  should be achieved. On the other hand, incentives should be created to  avoid packaging waste  whenever possible. In this respect, Etsy sellers can also make their contribution to sustainable recycling and a clean future by participating in the dual system. 
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2024-04-05T00:00:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">The great practical guide for selling via German marketplaces: EPR obligation...</title>
            <id>https://www.lizenzero.de/en/blog/the-great-practical-guide-for-selling-via-german-marketplaces/</id>
            <link href="https://www.lizenzero.de/en/blog/the-great-practical-guide-for-selling-via-german-marketplaces/"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Sales on digital marketplaces are booming. This offers retailers a wide range of opportunities to market and sell their products, but in turn it also means a lot of waste in the form of shipping and product packaging. In this blog article, together with our partner MarketPlace...
                                        ]]>
            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                   
 The great practical guide for selling via German marketplaces: EPR obligations for marketplace retailers 
 Content: 
 
  What is EPR and what does it mean for marketplace trading?  
  Licensing as a marketplace retailer: The basics  
  Overview: Your to-do&#039;s as a marketplace retailer  
  Case studies &quot;Ole&#039;s jewellery workshop&quot;: When am I responsible?  
 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Sales on digital marketplaces are booming. This offers retailers a wide range of opportunities to market and sell their products, but in turn it also means a lot of waste in the form of shipping and product packaging. 
 However, the recyclable materials contained in packaging are not worthless after a single use - on the contrary, they can be reused by recycling it. This is the aim behind the German Packaging Act. Based on the principle of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), it places an obligation on all those who put packaging into circulation in Germany. Online retailers are therefore also affected by the obligations of the Packaging Act. In this blog article, together with our partner MarketPlace Expert, we summarise the obligations arising from the Packaging Act for you as an online retailer. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 What is EPR and what does it mean for marketplace trading? 
 A frequently used term in the context of marketplace control is EPR. The abbreviation stands for Extended Producer Responsibility. It is based on the principle of product responsibility, which retailers and manufacturers must fulfil for their products. The EPR covers not only the product itself, but also packaging that is disposed of by end consumers. 
 In the context of the VerpackG requirements, marketplaces therefore often refer to &quot;EPR evidence&quot;, which must be provided for registration as a seller since July 2022. 
 Obligation of electronic marketplaces to monitor their sellers (eBay, Etsy, Amazon, etc.) 
 Since 1 July 2022, electronic marketplaces have had a duty to monitor compliance with the Packaging Act. Specifically, this means that marketplaces must check whether retailers who sell their products to German end consumers have complied with the Packaging Act obligations. If you are unable to provide the relevant evidence (LUCID registration number and proof of licence from your dual system), a sales ban will apply. Marketplaces may then not allow any sales on your part. 
 Control obligation for fulfilment service providers 
 Since 1 July 2022, fulfilment service providers have also been subject to an inspection obligation. As the commissioning retailer, you must also be able to provide proof of the system participation of your packaging and registration in the LUCID packaging register if you sell goods to German end consumers. If you do not have this proof, fulfilment service providers may not perform any services for you. 
   Note:  In addition to packaging, extended producer responsibility in Germany must also be fulfilled for electrical appliances (WEEE) and batteries. You can find more information on the requirements for batteries and WEEE  here .   
 &amp;nbsp; 
 
 
 
 
 You need support with your sales on marketplaces? 
 Our partner  MarketPlace Expert  is your full-service marketplace partner for all European marketplaces with strong expertise in onboarding, marketplace SEO and advertising campaigns. The SEO and Amazon specialists at MarketPlace Expert ensure growth on all relevant marketplaces. As a Lizenzero customer, you also benefit from great offers at MarketPlace Expert via our  partner area . 
   
 
 
 
 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Licensing as a marketplace retailer: The basics 
 Everything you need to know about the Packaging Act: 
 
 The  German Packaging Act (VerpackG)  came into force in 2019 and was amended in 2021. 
 It regulates the responsibilities of retailers and the handling of packaging waste in Germany. 
 Marketplace retailers - like all other distributors of sales packaging - are obliged to contribute financially to the disposal and recycling process for the packaging they put into circulation. 
 These provisions apply from the  first packaging that is placed on the market in Germany  and accumulates with private end customers - the Packaging Act refers to this as &quot;sales packaging&quot;. 
 Sales packaging is all  service, shipping and product packaging, including filling materials and packaging aids , that is generated in private households or a comparable source of waste generation. 
 Packaging is &quot;subject to system participation&quot; and must firstly be licensed with a dual system and secondly registered with the  Central Agency Packaging Register (ZSVR)  via LUCID. 
 The Central Agency Packaging Register acts as the supervisory authority for the Packaging Act. 
 Once a licence agreement has been concluded, the dual system takes over the organisation of the disposal and recycling process. 
 
 Checklist: Do the requirements also apply to me? 
 
 Do you manufacture products yourself that you then sell to German end customers via a marketplace? 
 Do you resell products that you purchase from other retailers/manufacturers via a marketplace? 
 Do you import products from abroad and resell them within Germany via a marketplace? 
 Are you not based in Germany yourself, but sell your products to end customers in Germany via a marketplace? 
 Do you use fulfilment service providers? 
 
 &amp;nbsp; 
  If you can answer one or more of these questions with &quot;yes&quot;, you are affected by the regulations of the Packaging Act.  
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Overview: Your to-do&#039;s as a marketplace retailer 
 You now know the obligations of the Packaging Act - but what does the licensing process look like? As a marketplace retailer, what exactly do you need to do to licence your packaging? We have created a step-by-step guide for you: 
  Step 1: Licensing  (also known as system participation): Conclude a licence agreement with a dual system, e.g. directly here via Lizenzero. Enter your planned annual quantities as a basis. At Lizenzero you can use the  weight calculator  and the  calculator  to calculate your packaging quantities quickly and easily. 
  Enter packaging quantities now  
   Step 2: Registration:  Register with the Central Agency Packaging Register (ZSVR) in the LUCID database. You will then receive your LUCID registration number by e-mail.  Register now .   Note:  Do not be confused by the term &quot;manufacturer&quot;. Retailers who bring packaging into circulation in Germany for the first time are also considered manufacturers by law.  
  Step   3: The data repor t: In the last step, you also inform the ZSVR via LUCID of the name of your dual system and the packaging quantity reported there.  That&#039;s it! You now have the LUCID registration number (also known as the &quot;EPR number&quot;) and you can also provide proof of your packaging licence. At Lizenzero you will find the corresponding certificate of participation accessible at any time in your  customer account . This provides you with all the evidence you need to submit to marketplaces or fulfilment service providers under the VerpackG. 
   
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Case studies &quot;Ole&#039;s jewellery workshop&quot;: When am I responsible? 
 Using the example of &quot;Ole&#039;s jewellery workshop&quot;, we have run through various scenarios to help you understand the responsibilities even better. Here we go: Our initial situation: Ole has founded a company to sell jewellery. He has decided to sell his jewellery via various marketplaces - but which packaging does he need to license and when exactly? 
 Szenario #1: Ole makes his own jewellery and then sells it on Etsy 
 Ole is responsible for licensing the following packaging: 
 
 Product packaging including all components: for Ole, this is a small box + label in which he places his jewellery. 
 Shipping packaging including all filling materials and packing aids: for Ole, this is a cardboard box + paper filling material to protect his jewellery, as well as parcel tape to seal the box. 
 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 If Ole licences all packaging that he has filled himself, he has done everything right. All packaging (boxes, labels, cardboard, filling material, etc.) that he sends to his customers is licensed by him. They have therefore fulfilled their product responsibility. Ole must submit proof of system participation and the LUCID registration number to his marketplace in order to be able to continue selling here. 
 Szenario #2: Ole orders his jewellery from a German producer and sells it on eBay 
  Ole is responsible for licensing the following packaging:  
 
 The shipping packaging he has filled, including all filling materials and packing aids: Ole has received the jewellery collected in large boxes and unpacks them first. He then sends the jewellery in different sized shipping boxes with filling material and seals them with adhesive tape. 
 
 &amp;nbsp; 
  Ole is not responsible for:  
 
 The product packaging previously filled by the producer/retailer: In this case, Ole does not have to licence the boxes in which the jewellery is placed or the large boxes that it does not send on. 
 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Ole has licensed all the packaging that he has added himself. The packaging that he received from the producer is not his responsibility. However, as the final distributor, Ole must be able to document during an inspection that the product packaging has already been licenced by the producer. Nevertheless, all waste products that end up in his customers&#039; rubbish bins are now licensed. Here, too, Ole must ensure that he submits proof of licensing to his marketplace. 
 Szenario #3: Ole orders the jewellery from the factory in Italy and then sells it on eBay 
 When importing, it depends on the contract design. In the case of a purchase ex works, Ole is obliged to licence the following packaging: 
 
 All packaging and packaging components that are imported with the goods into the German area of application: Ole must licence the boxes, the cardboard, the filling materials, the adhesive tape and all other packaging that he is sent. 
 All other packaging that he fills and sends himself: Ole unpacks and repackages the jewellery to send it to his customers. He also sticks his own label on the packaging. He also uses his own shipping box, filling material and adhesive tape. Ole has to licence all of these packaging components. 
 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 As Ole bought the jewellery ex works and imported it to Germany, he is the one who is responsible for the goods when they cross the border. This means that he must license all packaging that comes into circulation in Germany as a result of his actions (importing jewellery). In addition, he is also responsible for all packaging that he adds himself. If the contract states otherwise, for example &quot;Delivered at place&quot;, the Italian retailer must assume the obligations. Ole then only has to licence the packaging that he adds himself. In both cases, Ole must also submit the evidence to his marketplace. If the licence has been issued by his supplier, Ole must obtain the supplier&#039;s certificate. 
 Szenario #4: Ole ships products from abroad directly to German end consumers via Amazon 
 Ole, which manufactures its jewellery in Portugal, is responsible for licensing the following packaging: 
 
 All packaging and packaging components that are imported into the German territory: Ole must licence the box, his carton, the filling material and the packaging tape. 
 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 As Ole ships his jewellery directly to German end consumers, he must bear responsibility for the goods when they cross the border. In order to continue making sales via the marketplace, Ole has had to provide proof of his packaging licensing and LUCID registration since 1 July 2022. 
 Szenario #5: Ole makes his own jewellery, but uses a fulfilment service provider for shipping 
 Ole has outsourced the storage and shipping of his jewellery to a fulfilment service provider because his garage has become a little too small; he is therefore obliged to license the following packaging: 
 
 All product packaging: Ole must licence his box and the outer carton. 
 All shipping packaging and associated components: Ole must also licence the box filled by its service provider, the filling material and the parcel tape. 
 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 The commissioning retailer/manufacturer is always responsible for licensing the shipping packaging filled by the fulfilment service provider. Ole must also provide its fulfilment service provider with proof of licensing of all product and shipping packaging, otherwise the fulfilment service provider may not provide any services for Ole.&amp;nbsp; All packaging that ends up in his customers&#039; waste is licensed by him. This means that they have fulfilled their product responsibility. 
 Szenario #6:&amp;nbsp;Ole uses dropshipping to sell his jewellery 
 Ole has decided to use dropshipping. His service provider therefore fills all packaging for Ole. He is therefore obliged to licence the following packaging: 
 
 None. As Ole does not fill any packaging himself, he is not obliged to licence it. This must be done by his dropshipping service provider. 
 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Since July 2022, Ole must nevertheless provide his marketplace with appropriate proof of packaging licensing. He must request this from his dropshipping service provider. 
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2024-03-27T00:00:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Packaging Act: This is how your license year looks like</title>
            <id>https://www.lizenzero.de/en/blog/packaging-act-this-is-how-your-license-year-looks-like/</id>
            <link href="https://www.lizenzero.de/en/blog/packaging-act-this-is-how-your-license-year-looks-like/"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Since as early as January 2019, companies that place sales packaging on the market have to comply with various requirements at different points in time in accordance with the German Packaging Act. This can quickly lead to confusion: Which obligation must be completed by when? ...
                                        ]]>
            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                   
 Packaging Act: This is how your license year looks like 
   Including practical overview graphic   
 Content: 
 
  Summarized: Your license year at a glance  
  Before placing packaging on the market (mandatory)  
  In the run of the license year: Volume changes (optional)  
  By 12/31 of a year: Volume forecast for the following year (mandatory)  
  By 5/15 of the following year: End-of-year volume report (mandatory)  
  By 05/15 of each year: Declaration of completeness (optional)  
 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Since as early as January 2019, companies that place sales packaging on the market have to comply with various requirements at different points in time in accordance with the  German Packaging Act . This can quickly lead to confusion: Which obligation must be completed by when? What do companies have to do only once, and what recurrently? 
 We clarify and show: This is what your Packaging Act license year looks like. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Summarized: Your license year at a glance 
   
 &amp;nbsp; 
 To get a clear structure about the different duties and tasks, we have summarized the Packaging Act License Year for you as a checklist. Details on the individual tasks and duties can be found below the list. 
  Tip : Save the various deadlines in your calendar so that no important deadline is missed! 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 One-time tasks – before a packaging is placed on the market for the first time: 
 
  At the dual system : conclude license agreement: License the packaging that is expected to be used in the corresponding license year with a dual system ( mandatory ) 
  At LUCID (Central Agency Packaging Register) : register with the Central Agency Packaging Register via the LUCID reporting register ( mandatory ) 
  Dual system:  Enter your LUCID registration number at your dual system ( mandatory ) –  Tip : At Lizenzero simply possible via your customer account 
  LUCID : Report the name of your dual system to LUCID ( mandatory ) 
  LUCID : Report the estimated volumes just licensed with your dual system to LUCID ( mandatory ) 
 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Annually recurring tasks - always to be done both at the dual system and in LUCID: 
 
  Throughout the calendar year  = Adjust your packaging volumes – if necessary – to your current sales figures (for some dual systems such as Lizenzero, you will receive a credit by Aug. 31 for a volume reduction) ( optional ) 
  By 12/31  = Submit your volume forecast for the following year as an &quot;initial planned volume report&quot; ( mandatory ) 
  By 5/15  = Submit your end-of-year volume report for the previous year ( mandatory ) 
  By 5/15  = Submit a declaration of completeness (only  mandatory  for  certain volumes  or if requested by the central office) 
 
 &amp;nbsp; 
  Remark:  Lizenzero customers can always submit their  end-of-year volume report  for the respective previous year as of January 1 of the next year. We recommend to take advantage of this and to be active already in January in order to be able to tick off the year-end reporting quickly and not to forget the deadline (05/15). 
   Conclude now at favourable conditions   
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Before placing packaging on the market: System participation contract, registration and initial data reporting (mandatory) 
 Before the first packaging is put into circulation, a company concerned must conclude a licensing (or system participation) contract with one of the dual systems. The license year therefore begins with the packaging licensing. This must already be done in advance  before the beginning of the year  for the following calendar year – since, according to the Packaging Act, a company  may not  put packaging into circulation without a valid packaging license. 
 If a company only starts its business in the current year, it must conclude a licensing agreement during the year when it starts its business activity and thus before it puts packaging into circulation. 
 For  licensing  purposes, the packaging volumes per material type are given as an estimated volume for the entire calendar year. During the course of the year, the company has the option of making volume changes (see below, keyword &quot; Volume changes &quot;). 
   Purchase packaging license now  
  After the sales packaging has been licensed , the volumes must be reported to the Central Agency Packaging Register (ZSVR) via the LUCID reporting register: 
 
  Registration : the company registers once in  LUCID , specifying the company data ( instructions for registration in LUCID ). 
 The company must provide the registration number received to the dual system so that the  Central Agency Packaging Register  can verify that the obligation has been fulfilled correctly. 
  Data reporting : Furthermore, the company reports the packaging volumes licensed by it in its LUCID account as &quot;Initial planned volume report&quot; and indicates the name of the dual system (in case of business start and licensing in the current calendar year, this step takes place as &quot;Intra-year volume report&quot; at LUCID). 
 
 Unless the company cancels its license agreement, it will automatically renew in most cases. In this way, the company not only secures the cost-effective conditions, but is also legally compliant for the following year, taking into account the reporting deadlines. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 In the run of the license year: Volume changes (optional) 
 Since it is often not easy to estimate the packaging volumes to be placed on the market for an entire calendar year in advance in a completely reliable manner, the originally licensed estimated volumes can be adjusted to the current sales figures during the course of the calendar year. The volume adjustment is carried out in the LUCID account via the &quot;Intra-year volume report&quot; function and in the dual system via a volume change. This notification is optional. 
  Important : As soon as a company makes a volume change in its LUCID account, this must also be done at the dual system – and vice versa. The packaging volumes reported to LUCID must match the licensed volumes at the dual system at all times. In case of discrepancies, sanctions may be imposed by the Central Agency Packaging Register. 
 In this video, we will show you how to correctly carry out the &quot;Intra-year volume report&quot; in your LUCID account: 
    
 At Lizenzero you can make a volume change using the following link: 
   Chance your volumes now  
  Note : After a successful volume change, the license fee payable will change. Depending on the license provider, companies receive a credit if the initial estimated volume is reduced. In the event of an increase in volume, companies must pay the missing license fee in arrears. At the beginning of September, the dual systems report the volumes to the ZSVR. On this volume basis, the disposal shares are calculated on a fixed basis. For this reason, some dual systems no longer issue credits for volume reductions  after August 31.  
 &amp;nbsp; 
 By 12/31 of a year: Volume forecast for the following year (mandatory) 
 At the end of a calendar year, companies are asked to submit a volume forecast for the coming year. Based on these forecast values, the existing license agreement is extended for the coming year and the license fee to be paid is calculated. As with any volume report, the forecast report must be submitted to both LUCID and the dual system. 
 Here&#039;s how to make the &quot;Initial planned volume report&quot; in your LUCID account: 
    
 At Lizenzero, you can use the following link to make your volume forecast: 
   Go to the volume forecast  
 If a company has cancelled its old license agreement, it should look for a new license provider for the following year at the latest now. If this is not done in time, the company may put packaging without a license into circulation in the new year and thus violate the Packaging Act. So before you are threatened with sanctions, you should look for a new supplier in time! 
 In addition, it is advisable to gather well-founded data for the end-of-year volume report in advance, if this is not already being done. This way, the company is already prepared for the report in the new year and saves a lot of time retroactively. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 By 5/15 of the following year: End-of-year volume report (mandatory) 
 In order to completely close the previous license year, all companies concerned must submit a so-called &quot;end-of-year volume report&quot; by May 15 of each year. This report specifies the packaging volumes actually placed on the market for the previous year (ACTUAL volumes). As with all reports, this report must be submitted to both the LUCID account and the dual system. 
 At Lizenzero, you can use the following link to submit your end-of-year volume report: 
  Go to end-of-year volume report  
 &amp;nbsp; 
 By 05/15 of each year: Declaration of completeness (optional) 
 Companies that exceed one of the following thresholds  per year  must submit a declaration of completeness to the dual system and in LUCID by May 15th. The declaration of completeness must be checked in advance by a registered expert, auditor, tax consultant or certified accountant. 
 Smaller retailers are not affected due to the high upper limits, but can be requested individually to submit a declaration of completeness. 
  These are the quantity limits for the submission of a declaration of completeness:  
 
 
 
  Material  Trivial limit  
 
 
 
 Glass 
 from 80.000 kg 
 
 
 Paper, cardboard, carton 
 from 50.000 kg 
 
 
 Plastics, metal, composites (in total) 
 from 30.000 kg 
 
 
 
 
 &amp;nbsp; 
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2024-01-04T00:00:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Missing system participation and data report - ZSVR sounds the alarm: What yo...</title>
            <id>https://www.lizenzero.de/en/blog/missing-system-participation-and-data-report-zsvr-sounds-the-alarm-what-you-have-to-do-now/</id>
            <link href="https://www.lizenzero.de/en/blog/missing-system-participation-and-data-report-zsvr-sounds-the-alarm-what-you-have-to-do-now/"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            You have received an e-mail from the Central Packaging Register (ZSVR)? Then watch out! You probably haven&#039;t fulfilled all your Packaging Act obligations. A large mailing campaign by the ZSVR is currently reaching many traders. Why the authority is now sending out mailings, wh...
                                        ]]>
            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 Missing system participation and data report - ZSVR sounds the alarm: What you have to do now 
  You have received an e-mail from the Central Packaging Register (ZSVR)? Then watch out! You probably haven&#039;t fulfilled all your Packaging Act obligations . A large mailing campaign by the ZSVR is currently reaching many traders. Why the authority is now sending out mailings, what the terms &quot;system participation&quot;, &quot;LUCID number&quot; and &quot;data reporting&quot; have to do with it and what you have to do now, we will take a look at in the article. 
   Update December 2023  : At the turn of the year 2023/2024, the ZSVR continues to send many mailings to online retailers who have not fulfilled all their obligations correctly. 
  The Packaging Act (VerpackG) in online retail: the basics 
 Since 2019, the VerpackG obliges companies that place packaging on the market in Germany to fulfil certain obligations. The basis for this is the so-called &quot;Extended Producer Responsibility&quot; (EPR). According to this principle, distributors of packaging waste are responsible for the disposal and recycling of their packaging. 
  Since companies are practically unable to fulfil this obligation themselves, they must arrange collection, sorting and recycling through a so-called system participation in a dual system. In addition, the central body, as the supervisory authority of the Packaging Act, controls whether this obligation has actually been fulfilled. In addition, since 1 July 2022, marketplace traders have required proof of compliance with the obligation in order to be able to sell via marketplaces. &amp;nbsp; But first things first: 
  When am I obligated at all? 
 
 When you fill packaging and send it to German private individuals, 
 order the filling of packaging (fulfilment) or 
 import products into Germany. 
 
  That is the case? Then watch out! According to the Packaging Act, you are obliged to fulfil three tasks. It is important that you really go through all three steps in order to be legally compliant. 
  What are the obligations? 
 
  Registration  with the ZSVR in the  LUCID register.  
  System participation  (also called licensing) of packaging quantities with a dual system such as Interseroh+ via  Lizenzero .&amp;nbsp; 
  Data reporting  to LUCID (name of the dual system and packaging quantities licensed there). 
 
  Tip:  We provide   instructions on how to complete all three steps   in our support centre. 
  Lack of system participation 
 You have already ticked off the first obligation (registration with LUCID) - otherwise you would not have received an e-mail from the ZSVR. But what about the other obligations? 
   System participation is the most important element of the Packaging Act obligations, as it ensures that your packaging remains in the cycle . To conclude it, you enter into a licence agreement with a dual system. This dual system (such as Interseroh+, through which you can conclude your licence agreement with  Lizenzero ) then takes over the collection, sorting and recycling of your packaging waste. You pay a fee for this, which depends on the amount and type of packaging.  The ZSVR checks whether you have fulfilled this obligation. If you have not yet done so, it is high time. 
  Become compliant now   
 Need support? Here are the  instructions !   Tip : The proof of system participation, which you need, for example, to sell via marketplaces, will be provided to you by your dual system after you have concluded your licence agreement. You can download the certificate as a PDF file from your Lizenzero customer account at any time. This way. 
  Missing data report 
 In order to check whether you have actually licensed your packaging with a dual system, an automatic data reconciliation takes place between the ZSVR and the systems.  This can only take place if you have reported your data . If you have forgotten this point, you will now have received an email from the Central Office, as without the data report it cannot be checked whether you are legally compliant.  To report your data to LUCID, simply click here, and then report the name of your dual system (Interseroh+, if you license via  Lizenzero ) and your licensed packaging quantities to LUCID. Please note that after the initial data reporting, there is a continuous obligation to report data.   Master data and quantities must therefore always match in the LUCID account and in the dual system for the control mechanism to work .  Do you need assistance with data reporting? Here are the  instructions ! 
  Conclusion 
 Simply registering with LUCID is not enough to fulfil your packaging obligations. Since you have received an e-mail from the ZSVR, you have either not yet concluded a licence agreement with a dual system, or you have forgotten to carry out the corresponding data reporting. In any case, check again whether you have fulfilled all three obligations and close any gaps in your compliance.     
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2023-12-08T00:00:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">How-To-Guide: How to register in the LUCID packaging register?</title>
            <id>https://www.lizenzero.de/en/blog/how-to-guide-how-to-register-in-the-lucid-packaging-register/</id>
            <link href="https://www.lizenzero.de/en/blog/how-to-guide-how-to-register-in-the-lucid-packaging-register/"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            It is one of the three obligations of the German Packaging Act (VerpackG): The registration with LUCID. Behind the LUCID packaging register is the authority Central Agency Packaging Register, which checks the correct compliance with the specifications of the VerpackG. Often co...
                                        ]]>
            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                   
 How-To-Guide: How to register in the LUCID packaging register? 
 Content: 
 
  Instructions: How to register in the LUCID packaging register  
  Who has to register in the LUCID packaging register?  
  What do you need to consider when registering?  
  Overview of obligations  
 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 It is one of the  three obligations of the  German Packaging Act  (VerpackG), valid since 01.01.2019: The registration with LUCID . Behind the LUCID packaging register is the authority Central Agency Packaging Register, which checks the correct compliance with the specifications of the VerpackG.  Often companies, which have to comply with the Packaging Act, are not completely or incorrectly registered . How is the registration fully completed? What has to be considered? You can find answers and an overview of your obligations here. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Instructions: How to register in the LUCID packaging register 
 For the correct compliance with your obligations under the Packaging Act, your registration must be complete and error-free. Otherwise you are not acting in accordance with the law and must expect warnings from the  Central Agency Packaging Register  – the controlling body of the VerpackG. For your convenience, we have prepared a clear registration guide: 
 
 Call up the LUCID registration page for producers:  https://lucid.verpackungsregister.org/Hersteller/Registrierung/Teil-1  
 Create a login (go through all 4 steps: &quot;Master data&quot;, &quot;Packaging details&quot;, &quot;Brand names&quot; and &quot;Summary&quot;). 
 Confirm the data within 24 hours using the verification link you receive by email. You have now completed your registration and will receive your  individual LUCID registration number  (you will need this in step 6). 
 Complete the master data in the LUCID account. 
 License your packaging with a dual system such as Interseroh+ via Lizenzero (if not already done) this is the 2nd obligation of the VerpackG, the  system participation obligation ; only after this further obligation has been fulfilled can the registration with LUCID be completed, see points 6 to 8.
   License now   
 
 Submit the individual registration number you received from LUCID in step 3 to your dual system. 
 Enter the name of your dual system in the LUCID master data. 
 Now enter your packaging volumes licensed with the dual system for the current year under the &quot;Data reporting &quot;* tab in LUCID. 
 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 * Important : Which data report you make in LUCID depends entirely on when you conclude the licensing contract and register in the LUCID packaging register. If the conclusion of the contract and the registration takes place  before the beginning of a new calendar year  (= e.g. in 2023)  for the new year  (= 2024), you submit an  Initial planned volume report  for the estimated annual volumes of the following year (= 2024) in your LUCID account under the tab &quot;Data Report&quot;. 
 If you conclude the system participation contract and the registration  during one year for the current year , you must submit an&amp;nbsp; Intra-year volume report  during the year in your LUCID account under &quot;Data Report&quot;. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Who has to register in the LUCID packaging register? 
 All manufacturers and traders who put sales packaging into circulation, which ultimately accumulates as waste at the private end consumer, have to comply with the obligations of the German Packaging Act and therefore have to register in the LUCID packaging register. 
  Please note:  The  amendment to the German Packaging Act , which has been in force since 3 July 2021, provides for an extended registration obligation. From  1 July 2022 , distributors of all packaging must therefore register with the Central Agency Packaging Register in LUCID. This also applies to the initial distributors of packaging not subject to system participation (such as transport packaging) and the final distributors of service packaging. 
     
 &amp;nbsp; 
 What do you need to consider when registering? 
 The LUCID packaging register was created by the Central Agency Packaging Register in order to enable companies that put packaging into circulation to share the costs of recycling packaging waste within the scope of their product responsibility and thus to put the recycling economy on a sustainable footing. To avoid free riders, registration in the LUCID packaging register can only be done  by the companies themselves . Affected companies cannot commission a third party, such as their dual system, to carry out the registration or Data Reports on their behalf. 
  The following data is required for a smooth registration process:  
 
 Person responsible for the company 
 Details of an editor 
 E-mail address &amp;amp; self-chosen password for login 
 Address of the company 
 Value added tax identification number (VAT ID) 
 National identification number (e.g. commercial register number) 
 Listing of all brand names 
 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 The reported quantities in the LUCID account and in the dual system must always match, as these are checked by the Central Agency Packaging Register. Therefore: If a volume report/adjustment is made in the dual system, this adjustment must also be made in the LUCID account under &quot;Data Report&quot;. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Overview of obligations 
 Anyone who is considered an initial distributor of sales packaging under the Packaging Act, i.e. who fills packaging with goods for the first time and puts it into circulation commercially, must comply with a total of three obligations: 
 
  Registration obligation:  Affected companies must carry out a complete registration in the LUCID packaging register as explained in the instructions. 
  System participation obligation:  Via a &quot;licence fee&quot; the companies participate in the professional recycling of packaging in a dual system such as Interseroh+ via Lizenzero. The registration number visible in the LUCID dashboard must be given to the dual system. If the packaging volumes are already known, our  calculator  can quickly and easily calculate the license fee. 
  Data reporting obligation:  Finally, the licensed packaging volumes and the name of the dual system must be reported in the LUCID account. Data Report is a continuous duty, which must be done especially at the beginning of a year by the  Year-end volume report . 
 
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2023-12-04T11:00:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">German Packaging Act Amendment: What you can do if your marketplace suspends ...</title>
            <id>https://www.lizenzero.de/en/blog/german-packaging-act-amendment-what-you-can-do-if-your-marketplace-suspends-your-account/</id>
            <link href="https://www.lizenzero.de/en/blog/german-packaging-act-amendment-what-you-can-do-if-your-marketplace-suspends-your-account/"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Since July 1, 2022, marketplaces have suspended many seller accounts. What is the reason for this and how to prevent it, you can read in this article.
                                        ]]>
            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 German Packaging Act Amendment: What you can do if your marketplace suspends your account 
 Content: 
 
  What could be the reason for a suspension of my seller account?  
  Here&#039;s what you need to do to get your account suspension lifted  
 
 &amp;nbsp; 
  Since July 1, 2022, marketplaces have suspended many seller accounts. What is the reason for this and how to prevent it, you can read in this article.  
 Retailers who put packaging on the market in Germany must take responsibility for the waste it generates. This is what the Packaging Act requires. To this end, retailers must contribute to the costs of recycling and disposal processes. The aim is to reduce waste, make recyclable materials usable again and in this way protect the environment. In the course of the  first amendment to the German Packaging Act , a control obligation was imposed on marketplaces. Retailers who sell via marketplaces such as eBay or Amazon have had to provide their marketplace with evidence of proper compliance with the German Packaging Act requirements since July 1, 2022. If this evidence cannot be provided, marketplaces may no longer allow sales to Germany. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 What could be the reason for a suspension of my seller account? 
 If it is already too late and you missed uploading your proofs before July 1, it may be that your marketplace has already blocked your seller account. Or maybe you uploaded proof and your account was still suspended? We take a look at what the reasons may be and what you can do to get unblocked: 
 1. No obligations fulfilled: 
 You have not yet fulfilled any obligations under the Packaging Act? 
 The obligations of the Packaging Act include, in addition to a registration in the register of the Central Packaging Register Office ( LUCID ), a  system participation  (also called licensing) of the individual packaging quantities with a dual system. Once you have fulfilled these obligations, you can deposit the LUCID registration number (also called EPR number by many marketplaces) and the proof of your dual system in your seller account. Once you have done this, your marketplace will re-enable sales to Germany for you. 
 2. No proof deposited: 
 You have fulfilled the obligations of the German Packaging Act, but have not yet deposited any proof? 
 Your marketplace can only verify that you have met all obligations if you have uploaded your personal LUCID registration number and proof of your dual system in your seller account. You will find the LUCID number in your LUCID dashboard after successful registration, the proof of system you will receive from your dual system (at Lizenzero you can easily get it via download in your  customer account ). 
 3. Not fulfilled all obligations: 
 You have not fulfilled all three obligations of the packaging law? 
 It is not enough to just register with LUCID. The elementary part is the system participation with a dual system (like Interseroh+ via  Lizenzero ). If you have also fulfilled this obligation, make sure that you also report your packaging quantities to LUCID at the end. You do this via &quot;Data reporting&quot; under the item &quot;Intra-year quantity reporting&quot; if your obligation is already for the current year, or under the item &quot;Initial planned quantity reporting&quot; if you do not have to license until next year. 
 4. Incorrect registration: 
 Did you not register as a &quot;producer&quot; in the LUCID registry? 
 If you did not register as a producer, your marketplace will not recognize the LUCID number. Make sure you have registered with LUCID as a manufacturer without fail and not, for example, as an inspector, third party agent or authorized representative. 
   
 5. The data does not match: 
 Have you used a different name/spelling or tax number? 
 The data reconciliation between the Central Packaging Register Office ( LUCID ) and your marketplace can only be carried out successfully if your data at LUCID and your marketplace match. Be sure to check all data provided for spelling and accuracy. The publicly viewable register with all data can be found  here . 
 6. Wrongly blocked: 
 You do not distribute packaging in Germany and your account has been blocked anyway? 
 If you only sell digital products, for example, you have no obligations under the German Packaging Act. In this case, you must inform your marketplace that you are not affected by the requirements and ask for a suspension of the obligation to provide proof. If you use dropshipping, you have no obligations according to the German Packaging Act, but you still have to provide your marketplace with a registration number. On the topic of dropshipping and evidence, also read this  post &amp;nbsp;in our help center. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Here&#039;s what you need to do to get your account suspension lifted 
 Registration 
 The first thing you need to do is make sure you have registered as a producer with the Central Packaging Register (ZSVR) in the LUCID register:  Register Now . After successful registration you will receive your personal LUCID registration number (EPR number). You will receive this number by e-mail, but you can also view it at any time in your LUCID dashboard.  You save this number in your seller account.  
  At Etsy:  Open the &quot;Shop Manager&quot; go to &quot;Finance&quot;, &quot;Legal and Tax Information&quot;, &quot;State Registration&quot; and then &quot;German LUCID number&quot;.  On Ebay:  Open &quot;My eBay&quot; go to &quot;Account settings&quot; and then &quot;LUCID number&quot;.  On Amazon: &amp;nbsp;Log in to your seller account and enter &quot;packaging licence EPR&quot; in the search bar at the top right. Then click on the link &quot;Information on complying with the legal guidelines for Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)&quot;. Alternatively, click  here  to go directly to the desired page on Amazon. 
 If you still sell through other marketplaces, they will also inform you where to file the proofs. 
  Licensing 
 Once you have completed the registration in LUCID, you have already fulfilled the first obligation. Next, you need to sign a license agreement with a  dual system :  Sign up with Lizenzero now . You will also give the LUCID registration number to your dual system.  You will then receive a certificate of participation , which, in addition to the EPR number (LUCID number), serves as proof of compliance with the German Packaging Act obligations for your marketplace. How and whether you have to submit this proof to your marketplace varies. Pay close attention here to what evidence your marketplace requires from you. 
  Note:  At Lizenzero, you can download your certificate of participation quickly and easily in your  customer account . 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Data reporting 
 You then enter your licensed packaging quantities and your selected dual system (Interseroh+, if you opt for Lizenzero) in your LUCID account. You do this via the &quot;Data reporting&quot; item under &quot;Intra-year quantity reporting&quot; in the dashboard. There you select the period 01.2022 - 12.2022 and enter Interseroh+ as your dual system if you license via Lizenzero. 
   
  If you have fulfilled all three obligations and deposited the LUCID number (and your system proof) in your seller account, you have fulfilled all obligations. If you are sure that you have fulfilled all requirements correctly and your marketplace has still blocked you from selling to Germany, please contact the marketplace support. 
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2022-07-27T00:00:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in Germany: Everything you need to kno...</title>
            <id>https://www.lizenzero.de/en/blog/extended-producer-responsibility-epr-in-germany-everything-you-need-to-know-now-to-continue-selling-on-amazon-co./</id>
            <link href="https://www.lizenzero.de/en/blog/extended-producer-responsibility-epr-in-germany-everything-you-need-to-know-now-to-continue-selling-on-amazon-co./"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Amazon and other marketplaces are currently informing all their sellers who send goods to Germany about new obligations in 2022 and requiring them to submit their so-called &quot;EPR number(s)&quot;. From 2022, the EPR registration number(s) will be required as proof of compliance with ...
                                        ]]>
            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in Germany: Everything you need to know now to continue selling on Amazon &amp;amp; Co. 
   
  &quot;Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)&quot;:  
  The principle according to which, in Germany, responsibility for the entire life cycle of a product, associated components and packaging is seen as lying with the company that puts it into circulation. Related legislation is the German Packaging Act and the German Electrical and Electronic Equipment Act (WEEE).  
 Amazon and other marketplaces are currently informing all their sellers who send goods to Germany about new obligations in 2022 and requiring them to submit their so-called &quot;EPR number(s)&quot;. From 2022, the EPR registration number(s) will be required as proof of compliance with the legislation applicable in Germany for placing packaging, electrical appliances and batteries on the market, as a basic prerequisite for a trader to be able to sell to Germany via online marketplaces such as Amazon &amp;amp; Co. Incidentally, the same applies to France. 
 This is because marketplaces will have a duty of inspection from 1 July 2022 at the latest. This means that if a seller cannot prove to the marketplace operator that the requirements are met, a sales ban will take effect. It is therefore of great importance that every seller who sends goods to Germany via online marketplaces ensures within the set deadlines that they are legally compliant in their country of destination and submit their EPR number. 
  What exactly needs to be done is explained step by step in the following article:  
 Content 
 
  1. What does Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) mean?  
  2. Why does EPR concern me as a marketplace seller?  
  3. How do I get an EPR registration number in Germany?  
  Short note: These EPR numbers are required in France  
  Tip: EPR numbers for shipping to Austria  
  Conclusion: The loopholes are getting smaller  
 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 1. What does Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) mean? 
  EPR  stands for Extended Producer Responsibility. The principle behind this is that the product responsibility of a seller or producer who puts packaged goods on the market includes not only the product itself, but in particular all packaging and (product) components brought into circulation that are disposed of by the end consumer. In the context of Extended Producer Responsibility according to German legislation, this includes in particular packaging, electrical appliances and batteries. EPR thus functions as a kind of collective term for these three aspects. 
 The distributor thus bears responsibility for the entire life cycle of a product and its components, up to and including recycling. All EU waste regulations are based on this principle of responsibility, including the EU Packaging Directive, on which the German Packaging Act, for example, is based. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 2. Why does EPR affect me as a marketplace seller? 
 From 2022, the German Packaging Act (VerpackG) establishes a control obligation for online marketplaces, so that traders who sell to German end consumers must follow the requirements and provide their EPR number to the marketplace operators as proof of this. Similar regulations will also apply to France from 2022. It is also expected that other EU member states will follow suit in the next few years. 
 The obligation to verify their sellers will be legally binding for marketplace operators from next year onwards; if no proof is provided, the traders concerned will be expressly banned from selling – if a marketplace fails to comply with this requirement, it will face severe sanctions. Marketplaces such as Amazon &amp;amp; Co. will want to avoid this risk as much as possible – and therefore already inform their sellers now about the consequences if no proof of compliance with the EPR obligations is provided within the communicated deadlines. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 3. How do I get an EPR registration number? 
 All EU member states regulate the handling of waste in their own legislation – the associated obligations must therefore be considered and fulfilled for each country. The corresponding EPR registration numbers are – in short – the numbers that sellers receive from their respective recycling system or from the authorities. 
 In detail, the following must be done in Germany: 
 In Germany, registration for packaging, electrical appliances and batteries must be proven.    Packaging   
 Important: According to the German Packaging Act (VerpackG), sellers who ship to Germany must comply with the following requirements for ALL packaging that they put into circulation on the German market – regardless of the distribution channel and BEFORE the packaging is put into circulation; this means that not only packaged products sold via a marketplace are affected, but basically all of them.   What to do:  
 
 Participate packaging quantities with a  dual system :  Sign up now with Lizenzero  
 Register as a &quot;producer&quot; with the  Central Agency Packaging Register (ZSVR)  in the LUCID register:  Register here    Your EPR number:  Once all steps of the LUCID registration have been completed, you will receive an individual registration number which you can submit to your marketplace as an EPR registration number. 
 Enter the name of the dual system and licensed volumes in  LUCID . 
 
  Further information on packaging licensing in Germany can be found in our instructions:    How to system participation with Lizenzero     How to registration and data reporting in LUCID   
 &amp;nbsp; 
   Electrical and electronic equipment   
 The handling of electrical and electronic equipment in Germany is regulated by the German ElektroG. Note: If an electrical euqipment contains a battery, registration with the EAR must be done for both the electrical appliance and the batteries. You can also use our  WEEE-Portal  and hand over all duties. 
  What to do:  
 
 Register electrical euipment with the  Foundation for Waste Electrical Equipment Register (EAR)  as a &quot;producer&quot;:  Register here    Your EPR number:  Once you have gone through all the steps of the EAR registration, you will receive your WEEE registration number, which you can submit to your marketplace as an EPR registration number 
  For foreign sellers:  Appoint an authorised representative (  obligatory   for sellers without a registered office in Germany!) 
  Provide a guarantee  and deposit it with the EAR. 
 Commission a  recycling system  for the collection and sorting of WEEE. 
 
 &amp;nbsp; 
   Batteries   
 In the context of the German BattG, the following obligations must be fulfilled: 
 
 Register batteries with the  Foundation for Waste Electrical Equipment Register (EAR)  as &quot;producer&quot;:  Register here    Your EPR number:  Once all steps have been completed, you will receive your Batt. registration number, which you can present to your marketplace as your EPR registration number. 
   Optional for foreign sellers   without a registered office in Germany: Appoint an authorised representative 
 Commission an  approved take-back system  to take back the batteries 
 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Short note: These EPR numbers are required in France 
 In France, distributors do not only need a registration for packaging, electrical equipment and batteries, but also for other product groups such as textiles or furniture. Sellers receive the EPR number for each product group from the respective recycling system with which they are registered. 
  Note:  We will provide you with more information on the EPR requirements in France in the coming weeks. Subscribe to our newsletter now to be the first to know! 
     
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Tip: EPR numbers for shipping to Austria 
 Since a preliminary draft of a new Austrian waste ordinance contains similar intentions to make marketplaces and their sellers more accountable, it is expected that Amazon and all other marketplaces will soon request EPR information from their dealers for shipments to Austria. Just like in Germany, packaging, electrical equipment and batteries will also be affected here. 
   Update January 2022:   Done deal&amp;nbsp;– in Austria also there will be a control obligation with regard to compliance with the Austrian Packaging Ordinance (VerpackVO) by marketplace operators and fulfilment service providers from 01.01.2023.  Further important information:  Foreign online retailers must&amp;nbsp;– also from 2023&amp;nbsp;– appoint an authorised representative for packaging shipped to Austria.  You can find the collected information on the changes in Austria in our blog post on the topic.  
  We will keep you up to date here on the blog and via our  newsletter !  
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Conclusion: The loopholes are getting smaller 
 With the establishment of a control obligation by marketplaces, it will be much more difficult for online sellers in the future to circumvent national regulations and legislation for disposal and recycling – especially for sellers who operate from abroad to Germany and have thus often been able to avoid sanctions. It is therefore advisable for affected sellers to deal with the issue now and to get reliable solution partners at their side. 
  Attention:  Just because the requirements are not yet controlled by the marketplaces in every country does not mean that they do not exist and can also be sanctioned, because in case of non-compliance you are already violating established law in most European countries. 
 Do you want to check whether or not you have obligations regarding your packaging in your export countries? Use  LIZENZERO.EU , our information service for Europe-wide packaging licensing! 
 &amp;nbsp; 
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                            <updated>2021-12-20T03:00:00+01:00</updated>
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        <entry>
            <title type="text">Amendment of the German Packaging Act: Distributors of transport packaging ar...</title>
            <id>https://www.lizenzero.de/en/blog/amendment-of-the-german-packaging-act-distributors-of-transport-packaging-are-also-affected/</id>
            <link href="https://www.lizenzero.de/en/blog/amendment-of-the-german-packaging-act-distributors-of-transport-packaging-are-also-affected/"/>
            <summary type="html">
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                                            With the amendment of the German Packaging Act coming into effect on 3 July 2021, a number of things have changed for merchants and producers. Online trade in particular is affected by the new requirements. But the amendment also brings changes for distributors of transport pa...
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            </summary>
            <content type="html">
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                 Amendment of the German Packaging Act: Distributors of transport packaging are also affected 
     
  With the amendment of the German Packaging Act coming into effect on 3 July 2021, a number of things have changed for merchants and producers.  Online trade  in particular is affected by the new requirements. But the amendment also brings changes for distributors of transport packaging that must be considered. In the following article we inform you in detail about the changes.&amp;nbsp; &amp;nbsp;  
 Transport packaging includes packaging that is used to transport goods between different traders, such as transport boxes, wooden pallets, barrels or canisters. Transport packaging is mainly used in the business-to-business sector. So unlike sales packaging, it is not usually used for selling products to private end consumers. Transport packaging is therefore considered packaging not subject to system participation under the German Packaging Act. This means that it does not have to be licensed with a dual system like sales packaging. 
 Although no system participation obligation applies for transport packaging according to the German Packaging Act, it is nevertheless necessary for distributors of transport packaging to comply with certain requirements. Since the Packaging Ordinance – the predecessor of the German Packaging Act enacted in 1991 – there has been a take-back and recycling obligation for distributors of transport packaging. Now the  amendment to the German Packaging Act  has further tightened the requirements for placing transport packaging on the market beyond the previously existing obligations. 
   Download overview of the changes in the amendment   
 What do distributors of transport packaging have to consider in regard to the amendment of the German Packaging Act? 
 1. Obligation to inform for the final distributor of transport packaging 
  Since the amendment came into force on 3 July 2021 , there has been an obligation to provide information for the final distributors of transport packaging. This means that consumers must be informed extensively by the final distributors of transport packaging about the return options for transport packaging and their purpose.  It is not explicitly defined how exactly the information obligation has to be fulfilled. This means that signs, boards, delivery notes, etc. can be used to provide the information. 
 2. New requirements in relation to information, proof and documentation 
 In general the following applies: companies must take back transport packaging and ensure that it is recycled properly (e.g. with support by the environmental service provider Interseroh). The basic idea of this so-called  producer responsibility  has existed since the beginning of the Packaging Ordinance in 1991. 
 Due to the stricter requirements of the amendment to the German Packaging Act, the obligation to take back and recycle transport packaging is now supplemented by an obligation to provide proof. This means that from  1 January 2022 , companies must provide evidence that they have met their take-back and recycling requirements. The proof must be submitted to the competent state authorities if requested. 
 3. Obligation to register for packaging not subject to system participation 
 As part of the amendment to the German Packaging Act, an extended obligation to register has been introduced for distributors of all packaging. This extended registration obligation also affects distributors of transport packaging that is not subject to system participation. After a one-year transitional period, producers must therefore register with the  Central Agency Packaging Register  in  LUCID  from  1 July 2022  before they put transport packaging into circulation. 
 If business owners place packaging that is subject to system participation on the market and are therefore already registered in the LUCID register, they must carry out a further registration with the ZSVR in order to show their activity in relation to transport packaging (or other packaging not subject to system participation). 
   
 Interzero is your experienced service provider for the take-back and recycling of transport packaging 
 First-time distributors of transport packaging can commission a service provider such as Interzero to fulfil their take-back and recovery obligations. As an experienced environmental service provider, Interzero reliably supports its customers in comprehensively meeting the basic as well as all new requirements, thus ensuring sustainable and reliable transport packaging recycling. As the market leader for the nationwide take-back of&amp;nbsp; transport packaging and through a nationwide network of disposal partners, Interzero enables simple take-back and efficient recycling of transport packaging. This means that you, as an Interzero customer, hardly have to make any effort to fulfil your transport packaging obligations within the scope of the VerpackG and benefit from cost-efficient offers. 
  Request offer now  
 Conclusion: Stricter requirements for an efficient circular economy 
 The new requirements of the German Packaging Act amendment affect not only distributors of sales packaging subject to system participation, but also distributors of packaging not subject to system participation (such as transport packaging). Since packaging recycling is an important factor in achieving climate protection goals, the amendment aims to strengthen product responsibility for all types of packaging placed on the market and thus ensure that the use of all packaging is more considerate in the future. The comprehensive regulations are thus an important step towards an efficient circular economy and a more sustainable future.   
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                            <updated>2021-09-10T09:00:00+02:00</updated>
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