From 12 August 2026 on, the European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) will reshape packaging strategies across the EU. With its focus on minimisation, recyclability, and reuse, the regulation presents significant challenges to traditional logistics practices. Transport packaging will face increasing restrictions and performance requirements under PPWR:
- By 2030, at least 40% of transport packaging must be reusable (Article 29)
- Empty space in packaging must be limited to a maximum of 50% (Article 24)
- All packaging must be minimised in weight and volume, without unnecessary design features (Article 10)
These requirements will likely accelerate the shift from traditional wrapped pallets to:
- Smaller batch shipments
- Alternative containment methods like paper-based wrapping
- Reusable transport systems like crates, trolley, foldable boxes
- Modular shipping containers
- Automated packaging systems
- Individual package shipping
Balancing Individual Shipments and Palletized Solutions
Currently, an estimated 70% of industrial shipments in Europe use stretch-wrapped pallets as their primary transport method. This high percentage reflects the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of palletized shipping for uniform loads. However, as PPWR implementation approaches, this percentage is expected to decrease substantially, with more individual packaging solutions emerging.
An Individual Shipment (or Loose Load) will face different hazards during a transport compared to a unitized load which is handled mechanically. The bundled load is also acting as a big buffer, but the total mass of the load itself must be maintained during the whole transport (turning, emergency breaks,…) which creates high expectations on the wrapping. The Individual Shipment on the other hand is handled more manually and is likely to be exposed to multiple drops, punctures, it has no external support and could be compressed in any direction possible. Vibrations remain similar, although there are slight variations possible.
The IBE-BVI lab can support your transition 
A transport simulation offers reproducibility and control that real transport cannot provide—making it ideal for qualification purposes. The testing requirements for uniform pallets differ from those needed for individual shipments and for PPWR compliance requires fundamental rethinking of packaging design. Our independent testing and technical evaluation services could help you:
- Assess compliance with upcoming PPWR rules
- Identify packaging weaknesses under simulated transport conditions
- Test innovative or circular packaging concepts in development
- Compare performance between traditional and alternative packaging solutions
- Validate that individual packages perform adequately without pallet support
- Ensure reusable packaging systems maintain performance over multiple use cycles
Planning Your Packaging Strategy for PPWR Compliance
To prepare for PPWR implementation, consider these steps:
- Audit your current packaging system to identify non-compliant elements
- Evaluate which products might need to shift from palletized to individual shipment
- Test both loose load and strapped configurations to understand performance differences
- Investigate reusable transport packaging options suitable for your products
- Develop testing protocols specific to your new packaging configurations
- Schedule validation testing with IBE-BVI to ensure compliance and performance
By taking a proactive approach to PPWR adaptation and utilizing comprehensive laboratory testing, companies can develop packaging solutions that are both compliant and effective.
Interested in evaluating your innovative & circular packaging concepts: contact us here
