Germany Packaging Law (VerpackG) Compliance Guide
Updated 2026-08-17
All businesses placing packaged goods on the German market must: (1) Register in the LUCID packaging register, (2) License packaging with an approved dual system (e.g. Der Grüne Punkt), (3) Report packaging quantities annually. Non-compliance can result in sales bans and fines up to €200,000.
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Primary sources
This page is grounded in the primary materials below. Rules change, so open the source and confirm the current version before acting.
FAQ
What is the LUCID register?+
LUCID is Germany's packaging register operated by the Central Agency Packaging Register (ZSVR). All companies that place packaged goods on the German market must register before selling. Registration is free and done online at verpackungsregister.org.
What is a dual system?+
A dual system is a licensed company that organizes the collection, sorting, and recycling of packaging waste in Germany. You must contract with at least one dual system and pay fees based on the type and quantity of packaging you place on the market.
Who must comply with VerpackG?+
Any company (including overseas sellers) that sells packaged products to end consumers in Germany. This includes Amazon FBA sellers shipping to German warehouses. The obligation falls on the first distributor placing the packaged goods on the German market.
What are the costs of LUCID registration and dual system participation?+
LUCID registration with the Zentrale Stelle is free. Dual system (system participation) costs depend on the volume and type of packaging material. Typical costs for a small cross-border seller: EUR 200-500/year for the dual system license fee, based on approximately 100-500 kg of packaging. Fees are calculated per material type (paper, plastic, glass, composite) with plastic being the most expensive. You must pay the dual system fee before shipping your first package to a German consumer.
Do I need EPR registration for selling on Amazon.de or other German marketplaces?+
Yes. Since July 2022, Amazon.de, eBay.de, and other marketplaces are required to verify that all sellers shipping to German consumers have valid LUCID registration numbers. If you cannot provide your LUCID number, the marketplace will block your listings. Marketplaces are also deemed producers under VerpackG — they must ensure their third-party sellers comply, and may refuse to ship non-compliant goods.
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