PPWR and stretch film: what the new EU packaging rules mean for pallet wrap
The key dates
| Date | What happens |
|---|---|
| 11 February 2025 | The PPWR enters into force |
| 12 August 2026 | The PPWR applies generally and replaces the Packaging Directive 94/62/EC |
| 1 January 2030 | Recycled content targets for plastic packaging; design-for-recycling rules; bans on listed single-use formats |
| 1 January 2035 | Packaging must be recycled at scale |
As a regulation, the PPWR applies directly in every member state. National producer responsibility systems continue, but are aligned with it.
What it means for stretch film
Recyclability
All packaging must be recyclable. Detailed design-for-recycling criteria follow by delegated act, and from 2035 packaging must also be recycled at scale. Mono-material polyethylene film is well placed, but additives and mixed materials should be checked with the film producer.
Recycled content: 35 % from 2030
Plastic packaging that is not contact-sensitive, which includes pallet wrap, must contain at least 35 % recycled content from 1 January 2030. The share is calculated as an average per manufacturing plant per year, so it is first a question for film producers. For distributors and their customers, it means film with recycled content will become the norm.
Minimisation
Packaging must be reduced to the minimum weight and volume needed for its function. For stretch film that means not using more film than the load needs: the right film, at the right pre-stretch, with a wrapping pattern that fits the load.
Extended producer responsibility (EPR)
The company that first makes packaging available in a country pays producer fees for its waste handling there. Fees are based on the amount of packaging placed on the market and are adjusted by how recyclable it is. Less film per pallet means fewer kilos reported and lower fees.
Not banned
From 2030 the PPWR bans some single-use plastic formats, such as shrink or collation film that bundles products for promotional sales to consumers. Stretch film used to secure pallets for transport is not on that list.
Own-brand film: when a distributor becomes the manufacturer
The PPWR has four economic operators: manufacturer, importer, distributor and authorised representative. The manufacturer carries the duties for the packaging itself, such as recyclability, substances, minimisation and the declaration of conformity.
A distributor that places film on the market under its own name or trademark is treated as the manufacturer, with the manufacturer’s obligations. Distributors that sell private-label stretch film should check their documentation with the film producer before 12 August 2026.
What you can do now
- Measure film per pallet at your customers. It is the basis for minimisation and for the kilos behind producer fees.
- Test thinner and recycled-content films on the customer’s own loads, and check that the load still holds.
- Keep the documentation: film, settings, results and photos, test by test.
Palletseal records all of this at the customer’s wrapper and puts film per pallet and per year, cost and load stability in one report.
This guide is an overview based on Regulation (EU) 2025/40 and the European Commission’s guidance. It is not legal advice. Check the rules and national implementation in each country you sell to.
Questions we often get
Does the PPWR cover stretch film?
Yes. The PPWR covers all packaging placed on the EU market, and stretch film used to wrap pallets is transport packaging.
When does the PPWR apply?
It entered into force on 11 February 2025 and applies generally from 12 August 2026. Several requirements, such as recycled content, start later.
How much recycled content must stretch film contain?
From 1 January 2030, plastic packaging that is not contact-sensitive, such as pallet wrap, must contain at least 35 % recycled content. It is calculated as an average per manufacturing plant per year, not per roll.
Is pallet stretch film banned under the PPWR?
No. The PPWR bans certain single-use plastic formats from 2030, such as collation film that bundles products for promotional sales to consumers. Pallet wrap for transport is not on that list.
Does a distributor that sells film under its own brand have new duties?
Yes. When packaging is placed on the market under a company's own name or trademark, that company is treated as the manufacturer under the PPWR, with the manufacturer's obligations.
