New EU packaging rules came into effect on 12 August, introducing requirements that will affect businesses placing packaging or packaged products on the European market.

One of the first measures restricts PFAS, commonly known as “forever chemicals”, which have been used to make food packaging resistant to grease and moisture. Food-contact packaging exceeding the permitted limits can no longer be introduced to the EU market. This may affect products such as takeaway containers, bakery paper, fast-food wrappers and pizza boxes.

For UK exporters, the rules mean packaging compliance must be considered alongside the product itself. Businesses may need to review materials with suppliers, obtain supporting documentation and ensure packaging meets EU requirements before goods are dispatched. Failure to comply could result in shipments being held, rejected or requiring repacking, creating additional costs and delivery delays.

Further measures will be phased in over the coming years. A harmonised EU labelling system is due from 2028 to make packaging easier to sort for recycling. From 2030, new limits on unnecessary empty space, restrictions on some single-use plastic packaging and reuse targets will begin to apply. Requirements covering recycled plastic content and the recyclability of packaging will also take effect.

Although the changes will require preparation, common standards across EU member states should eventually make cross-border compliance more consistent. Importers and exporters will nevertheless need to understand how the rules affect product packaging, transport packaging and ecommerce consignments.

As European legislation continues to evolve, Caledonian Freight is on hand to help businesses respond to changing cross-border requirements while providing an extensive range of reliable European road freight services.