Less Packaging, More Efficiency: New Obligations for the Automotive Industry
Less Packaging for Greater Sustainability: The EU Will Require Companies to Use Packaging as Sparingly as Possible in the Future
With the PPWR, the principle of “less is more” becomes a binding standard. Especially for the automotive industry, which operates within complex supply chains, this also opens up opportunities to boost efficiency in both packaging and logistics.
Obligation to Optimize from 2030
Starting in 2030, manufacturers and retailers must ensure that each package is minimized in size and weight to the level needed for its protection and transport function. In practice, this means: no oversized boxes for small parts, no redundant secondary packaging, and no unnecessary filler material.
Maximum of 50% Empty Space
The regulation specifies a key parameter: from now on, packaging may contain no more than 50% “air.” This 50% limit applies to shipping, transport, and bundle packaging. The goal is to use available box space more efficiently—leading to less wasted capacity and more products transported per shipment.
No Consumer Deception Through Packaging
The PPWR also targets packaging designs meant solely to make products appear larger. For example, double-bottom or unnecessarily thick-walled packaging is prohibited if it serves no functional purpose. While this measure primarily concerns retail rather than the B2B side of the automotive industry, it reinforces the regulation’s focus on honest and purpose-driven packaging.
Overarching Waste Reduction Goals
The requirement to minimize packaging contributes to the broader goal of reducing packaging waste EU-wide. By 2030, each member state must achieve a 5% reduction in packaging waste per capita (compared to 2018), increasing to 10% by 2035 and 15% by 2040. Although these targets fall to the member states, industry plays a vital role: every saved packaging unit along the supply chain helps meet these goals.
Implications for the Automotive Industry
Automotive packaging often serves important protective functions—for instance, preventing damage to sensitive parts. Still, there is room for optimization:
Customized Packaging Solutions
Instead of one-size-fits-all boxes that are often too large, tailored containers or protective forms can help reduce material usage.
Lighter Materials
Substituting lighter yet equally robust packaging materials (e.g., foam instead of heavy plastics where possible) decreases overall weight.
Better Utilization of Loading Equipment
If packaging dimensions align precisely with pallet or container sizes, no transport volume goes to waste.
These measures not only cut material costs but also increase transport efficiency by fitting more parts per truck or container. Companies that invest in smarter packaging design now will not only comply with upcoming regulations but also enhance their own process optimization and cost structures.
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