What packaging is obligated?
Firstly, UK companies need to understand what is classified as packaging under the packaging regulations so that they can then make an assessment of their likely obligation.
Packaging definition
Packaging is defined as “all products made of any materials of any nature to be used for the containment, protection handling, delivery and presentation of goods where the products are either primary, secondary or tertiary packaging”.
Primary (sales) packaging
Used to constitute a sales unit to the final user or consumer at the point of purchase.
Secondary (grouped) packaging
Used to constitute at the point of purchase a grouping of certain number of sales units whether the latter is sold as such to the final user or consumer or whether it serves only as a means to replenish the shelves at the point of sale i.e. it can be removed without affecting its characteristics.
Tertiary (transport) packaging
Used to facilitate handling and transport of a number of sales units in order to prevent physical handling and transport damage.
Types of packaging
Seven types of packaging material are covered:
- Paper
- Plastic
- Steel
- Aluminium
- Glass
- Wood
- Other – includes things such as hessian bags, rope, jute and ceramics
Examples of obligated packaging include boxes, shrink wrap, pallets, bottles, cartons, biscuit tins and labels.
Some examples of items currently not considered packaging include tea bags, CD cases, film cases, coat hangers and bin bags.
Packaging handled
To be obligated, packaging you handle has to meet the following criteria:
- It is owned by you or
- It is passed on to someone who carries out the next activity in the packaging chain or throws it away or
- It has been imported by you
The definition of ‘packaging handled’ excludes packaging and packaging materials that are exported from the UK, packaging that is being reused and production residues that arise during packaging manufacture and conversion.
Understanding your packaging
if you need guidance on whether your packaging is obligated we can help. Get in touch by calling 0844 873 1034, requesting a call back or complete the enquiry form.
