QCDS

Packaging optimization and PPWR

A – Preparation of PPWR documentation

PPWR regulativa

B – Packaging optimization

C – Packaging design and development

A - Preparation of PPWR documentation

The Preparation of PPWR documentation service is intended for companies that want to align their products and packaging with the new EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).
This regulation, effective from 12 August 2026, introduces mandatory requirements for all entities that produce, use, or place packaging on the EU market.
The goal of the service is to ensure full documented compliance, reduce regulatory risks, and facilitate seamless product export to the European market.

Key benefits for the company
✅ Proof of packaging compliance with PPWR Regulation (EU 2025/40)
✅ Readiness for export and placement of products on the EU market
✅ Reduced risk of customs delays and market disruptions
✅ Transparency for customers, distributors, and regulatory authorities
✅ Compliance with recyclability and circular economy requirements
✅ Possibility of integration with optimization and sustainability projects

PPWR regulativa

PROCESS OF CREATING THE PPWR DOCUMENTATION PACKAGE

A.1 – Preparation of PPWR documentation for each unique packaging combination

The preparation of PPWR documentation includes the development of complete technical and legal documentation confirming that the packaging complies with the requirements of PPWR Regulation (EU 2025/40).
The analysis is performed according to the Unique Packaging Combination (UPC) principle — meaning that a separate documentation set is not required for every SKU, but for each type of packaging used as part of a specific product.
The company (client) provides all relevant data and materials necessary for documentation development:

  • technical specifications and packaging dimensions;
  • material types and weights;
  • information on primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging;
  • logistical data (pallet management, transport, storage);
  • MSDS sheets and reports from accredited laboratories;
  • photographs and supporting materials.

Based on the submitted information, a complete PPWR documentation package is prepared, containing the following documents:

Document 1. - Declaration of Conformity (DoC)

A document confirming that the packaging meets PPWR safety, recyclability, and labeling requirements.
It is signed by the company’s responsible person.
The DoC must be stored and provided to customers, distributors, or EU authorities upon request.

Document 2. - Packaging Compliance Declaration (PCD)

A document that, in addition to the DOC, can confirm that the packaging is produced in accordance with EU regulations.
The PCD includes:

  • confirmation of recyclability and reusability;
  • information on recycled content, material fractions, and labeling;
  • test results according to EN, ISO/IEC 17025, RecyClass 2025 and Design for Recycling (DfR) standards;
  • compliance with food contact requirements (when applicable).

The PCD is an operational document that can specify technical information about packaging and is not legally binding in regulation.

Document 3. - Packaging Technical File (PTF)

The Technical File contains the proof of concept and all technical data related to the packaging.
It includes results of tests conducted according to ASTM and ISTA standards, stability assessment of packaged units (unit load stability) and analysis of the technical and mechanical characteristics of the packaging.
The PTF document serves as formal evidence of the technical integrity and safety of the packaging, and must be made available to competent authorities upon request.

 

Additional options

If any non-compliance with PPWR requirements is identified during documentation preparation, potential cost-saving and optimization opportunities can be identified.
A packaging optimization project may then be implemented to ensure both technical and regulatory correctness of the packaging.

B – Packaging optimization

The Packaging optimization service covers the complete process of analyzing, improving, and aligning packaging with the requirements of the PPWR regulation and modern sustainability principles.
The objective is to reduce costs, increase efficiency, and fully prepare packaging for the EU market.
The program is delivered through two levels — diagnostics and implementation of the optimized solution — providing the company with precise data on potential savings and clear steps for achieving long-term improvement.

Key benefits for the company
✅ Reduced packaging and transport costs
✅ Increased safety and product protection during handling
✅ Lower carbon footprint and reduced raw material consumption
✅ Compliance with the PPWR regulation and European standards
✅ Clear and measurable cost-saving and ROI analysis
✅ Technical documentation ready for the EU market

PACKAGING OPTIMIZATION PROCESS

B.1 – Level I: Diagnostics of the current state

The first level includes a detailed technical and economic assessment of the existing packaging system.
A baseline study is performed on selected products, focusing on SKUs with the highest profit impact or those experiencing damage during handling and transport.
The analysis includes:

  • review of primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging according to the PPWR regulation, the Packaging and Packaging Waste Act, and relevant standards (SRPS EN 13428, ASTM, ISTA);
  • testing of load capacity, safety, and handling characteristics;
  • measurement and quantification of mechanical and technical parameters;
  • assessment of opportunities for cost and material reduction;
  • analysis of automation and digitalization potential in the packaging process;
  • development of a savings study and improvement recommendations.

The result is a report with quantified potentials and improvement proposals, without any obligation for the company to proceed to implementation.

B.2 - Level II: Implementation of the optimized solution

The second level includes the development and implementation of optimized packaging based on the results of phase B.1.
A complete standard is defined, containing all relevant elements: technical specifications, drawings, procurement guidelines, packaging methods, pallet management, and transport parameters.
The implementation phase includes:

  • design of new packaging solutions and preparation of technical documentation;
  • procurement and preparation of materials for a zero (pilot) production run;
  • repeating ISTA and industrial tests to validate the new concept;
  • preparation of PPWR documentation for the optimized articles;
  • cost-benefit analysis based on new and existing packaging prices.

The process concludes with technical validation and pilot application of the new solution under production conditions.

C – Packaging design and development

The Packaging design and development service covers all steps required for technically sound, economically sustainable, and regulatory-compliant packaging design.
The goal is to define a solution for a specific product that ensures stability, safety, efficiency, and minimal environmental impact — while achieving the lowest possible cost of materials, storage, and transport.
This service is ideal for companies launching new products, improving existing packaging, or seeking solutions that meet PPWR requirements and circular economy principles.

Key benefits for the company
✅ Technically and economically optimized packaging solution
✅ Reduced material, transport, and storage costs
✅ Design aligned with PPWR requirements and sustainability principles
✅ Increased product safety and durability throughout the supply chain
✅ Documented know-how for future application and standardization
✅ Possibility of later integration with optimization and PPWR documentation

PACKAGING DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT PROCESS

C.1 – Packaging design and development for product(s)

The process includes the design of all packaging elements — from secondary and tertiary packaging to the complete unit-load structure.
Based on the inputs provided by the company (dimensions, product type, packing method, logistics, materials, and transport conditions), an engineering analysis and development of the solution is carried out, involving approximately 100 technical parameters defined by relevant standards.
Design is conducted according to the following principles:

  • stability and safety of packaging in all stages — from packing lines, through storage and transport, to the end-user;
  • optimal mechanical properties and adequate technical characteristics of the packaging;
  • minimal cost while maintaining the required level of product protection;
  • reduced carbon footprint through lower mass, volume, and material count;
  • efficiency in storage and transport, with focus on cost per product unit;
  • application of relevant standards and guidelines (ASTM, EN, ISTA) for industrial testing and concept verification.
Deliverables

The outcome is a complete packaging design solution that includes:

  • technical documentation and drawings;
  • material and dimension specifications;
  • performance and stability parameters;
  • procurement and implementation guidelines;
  • a know-how package with recommendations for further application.

Graphic design services (labels, visual identity, branding) are charged separately if included in the request.
Packaging design and development enables companies to improve the way they deliver their products — increasing efficiency, reducing costs, and meeting future EU standards.
The result is not only new packaging, but a complete solution that delivers technical reliability, cost savings, and sustainability.

Additional notes

  • We do not assume responsibility for the validity, expiration dates, or accuracy of the technical data and documents provided by the company for the purpose of preparing PPWR documentation.
  • We do not communicate with material suppliers cooperating with the company for which the PPWR documentation is being prepared. All communication is conducted exclusively with authorized representatives of the company.
  • We are not responsible for the accuracy of technical sketches, drawings, cross-sections, or structural elements of the Unique Packaging Combination (UPC) within an SKU that the company provides for the purpose of PPWR documentation development.
  • We do not assume responsibility for, nor do we influence, the machine assemblies used in the production and packaging of the packaging materials. We do not guarantee the functionality or correctness of machines, mechanical assemblies and sub-assemblies, or electrical installations.
  • Upon completion and delivery of documents A.1, B.1, B.2, or C.1, the client company becomes the owner of the documents and may modify or adapt them if necessary.
  • We do not influence or interfere with the internal procedures, instructions, or standards used by the company (the client). The company itself is responsible for reviewing and complying with all regulations, applicable acts, and standards it uses.
  • If, based on the submitted A.1 documentation, the EU customer raises an objection or suggestion, the client company shall notify us as the service provider. The objection or suggestion will be addressed, provided it did not arise as a consequence of inadequate inputs supplied during the documentation development process (if the objection results from inaccurate information provided by the client, actions will be taken in accordance with point 3 of these notes).