Frequently Asked Questions about Packaging Licensing

These are the most important questions and answers about packaging licensing for online retailers!

Further information can also be found in our video about the Packaging Act – explained briefly and concisely!

What is the Packaging Act (VerpackG)?

The Packaging Act is a legal regulation aiming to minimise the quantities of packaging waste. In principle, the legislator stipulates that packaging waste should be avoided wherever possible. If it is unavoidable, the highest possible rate of recycling should be applied.

What is the consequence of the law?

Those who place packaged goods on the market are being made responsible for the packaging they put into circulation. In doubt, this means the traders who pack their goods ready for dispatch. Since you – especially as an online retailer- cannot take care of the disposal of individual packages, the dual systems are there to take on.

What are the Dual Systems?

There are currently eight suppliers that are licensed as dual systems in Germany. They mediate, so to speak, between dealers and end customers and ensure that the packaging produced is returned to the resource cycle.

How exactly is this done?

The packaging can be disposed of free of charge by all end customers at the appropriate collection points. Paper in the paper bin, plastics in the yellow sack/bin and glass in the waste glass container. Since this system exists parallel to the classic household waste disposal, it is called the “dual system”. The costs for disposal are borne by the dealers, who are allocated to all parties involved. The amount depends on the quantity and type of packaging placed on the market.

What does a retailer have to do?

As a trader you have to join a dual system and register with the Central Agency (Zentrale Stelle / LUCID). This is done by means of a contract and an indication of the approximate quantity of packaging that is to be placed on the market. Once a year, the final quantity must be reported to the dual system and the Zentrale Stelle.

Which packaging do I have to license? Can I calculate the costs in advance?

Yes, simply enter the quantities of your packaging into our online calculator for the Packaging Act, staggered according to material fraction/type. There you will also receive valuable tips on how to determine your packaging types. We calculate the costs for your individual packaging disposal in Germany simply and without obligation!

I only send a few parcels. Do I still have to do all of this?

The Packaging Act does not stipulate any minimum limits – as soon as you put packaging into circulation, you must join a dual system. Landbell offers a simple and convenient solution for very small quantities of packaging material! For only 75 Euros per year you can license up to 100 kg of packaging – fast, easy and uncomplicated.