What Is PPWR?

The regulation covers all packaging types, including transport packaging (pallets, stretch film, strapping) and secondary packaging used for commercial shipments. For kitchen hardware exporters, every box, pallet, and protective material used to ship your products to the EU is in scope.

Key Impacts on Kitchen Hardware Manufacturers

1. Heavy Metal Limits — Effective Now
From 12 August 2026, the combined concentration of lead, cadmium, mercury, and hexavalent chromium in any packaging component must not exceed 100 mg/kg. This applies to inks, adhesives, coatings, and plastic strapping — not just the box itself.
2. You Are the "Manufacturer" Under PPWR
The "manufacturer" is defined as the entity that places packaging on the market under its own name or trademark — not the factory that physically produces the packaging. If your kitchen hardware carries your brand and is sold into the EU, you are responsible for compliance documentation and the Declaration of Conformity (DoC).
3. Declaration of Conformity & Technical Documentation
From 12 August 2026, all packaging must be supported by an EU Declaration of Conformity and comprehensive technical documentation containing material composition data and test reports. These must be retained for 5 years (10 years for reusable packaging).
4. Transport Packaging Minimisation (from 2030)
From January 2030, transport packaging must not exceed 50% empty space. This will require redesigning shipping cartons to eliminate "dead air".
5. EPR Registration
If you are the "producer" first making packaging available in an EU Member State, you must register under local Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes and pay associated fees. If you have no EU entity, you must appoint an Authorised Representative.

Compliance Checklist

Key Takeaways

• PPWR applies to all kitchen hardware packaging — cartons, pallets, stretch wrap, dividers, and strapping.
• Heavy metals in packaging must stay below 100 mg/kg — verify with your suppliers now.
• If your brand is on the packaging, you are responsible — compliance is your obligation, even if a third party produces the packaging.
• No DoC = no market access — customs can block goods without proper documentation.
• 2030 targets are coming — empty space limits and recyclability requirements will affect your packaging desig

Yuanzao is a responsible supplier of parts for home appliances. In full compliance with the new PPWR regulation, we label and sort all packaging materials and provide accurate data to our customers—major home appliance brands. While supplying premium accessories such as baking trays, oven grids, airfry tray baskets, hob pan supports and etc, we also help our clients navigate EU market entry with environmentally friendly packaging and certified eco-labels that meet local legal standards.