VerpackG German Packaging Act

The German Packaging Act (VerpackG) implements the European Packaging Directive into German law. Until now, this law applied only to B2C transactions. Starting from 01.07.2022, all B2B packaging is also subject to this law. The Packaging Act holds traders responsible for participating in the recycling of their product packaging, creating an economic incentive for companies to use recyclable packaging and reduce resource consumption. Compliance with the Packaging Act is a key step towards greater sustainability in e-commerce.

What is the purpose of the Packaging Act?

The Packaging Act aims to uphold the principle of product responsibility for manufacturers. VerpackG increases transparency and accountability, with the goal of reducing unnecessary packaging waste.

What does product responsibility mean?

Product responsibility means that manufacturers and sellers must consider the future disposal of their products from the development, production, and sales stages. They must ensure their products are recyclable and that take-back and responsible disposal after use are possible.

What happens if you don’t register?

Failure to comply with VerpackG obligations can result in fines up to 200,000 EUR.

The LUCID Packaging Register is publicly accessible, allowing competitors to verify registration status. If a company is not registered, competitors may issue costly cease and desist letters under German law.

Additionally, Ankorstore cannot assume responsibility for your business if you do not register, and you risk temporary suspension from our platform.

What are the obligations under the Packaging Act?

The obligation to register

Every brand marketing or importing packaging filled with goods in Germany must register in the LUCID packaging register, specifying the type of packaging.

The obligation to participate in a system depending on your packaging type

Anyone placing sales or shipping packaging filled with goods on the German market, which typically becomes waste, must assume financial product responsibility by participating in a system and paying for packaging recycling. This is called system participation. You fulfill this obligation by concluding a system participation agreement with one or more systems.

→ Here is an overview of the “systems” that brands can pay fees to.

The obligation to submit data reports on packaging quantities - if you are subject to system participation

After registering and receiving your LUCID number, if you are subject to system participation, you will receive an email directing you to a page to enter data on the annual amount of packaging used and the “system” you have chosen.

What documents are needed to show system participation is active?

System participation should be documented by the upstream distributor on the invoice or delivery note, ensuring the final distributor has comprehensive compliance documentation. Alternatively, the final distributor must obtain other appropriate documentation proving that the upstream distributor has fully participated in the purchased service packaging system.

What is the registration process? How can brands get a LUCID registration number?

Brands can register here.

Please refer to our “How to register” guide and follow the process.

What requirements are there to register?

The LUCID Packaging Register operates exclusively online. You need a web-enabled device with an up-to-date browser. Registration can only be completed electronically and not on paper.

Important update regarding registration for non-German established brands

Since 12/08/2026, the new PPWR regulation (EU 2025/40, Article 45) requires any brand not established in Germany—including those within the EU—to appoint a representative already holding a LUCID number to register on the German market. In practice, a French brand without a German establishment can no longer self-register on LUCID and must use a third-party representative (REP representative) based in Germany.

Didn’t receive the verification link?

1. Check your spam folder for the verification email.

2. Verify if the email was moved to another folder, such as junk mail.

3. Request a new verification link by logging in at lucid.verpackungsregister.org using your email and password, then select “resend activation email.”

What costs are incurred by registration?

Registering to obtain a LUCID number is free of charge.

Why does Ankorstore need my Lucid number?

B2B marketplaces are required to verify compliance of their participants, such as brands on Ankorstore.