How to comply with the German Packaging Act

On January 1, 2019, Germany enacted the VerpackG (Packaging Act) in order to promote the recycling of packaging materials and reduce waste.

If you are a brand selling and shipping to Germany, or are looking to expand your sale territories to Germany on Faire, you will require a LUCID number.

We understand that the Packaging Act and LUCID registration process can seem complex and overwhelming, therefore we want to help you feel confident registering for a LUCID number, and selling your products to German retailers on Faire.

New updates to the Packaging Act went into effect on July 1, 2022, that include some changes that may impact your brand. We’ve provided some information about this change below.

Who is affected by this law?

The Packaging Act impacts all brands who ship to retailers in Germany. For specific implications for your brand, please consult a customs broker or legal counsel.

For guidance, support or questions, please contact the ZSVR, you can use their hotline service or send an email : anfrage@verpackungsregister.org

How can I get a LUCID number?

You will find detailed information on the data and details you need to have before applying for a Lucid number here.

To get started with your registration, follow the steps below:

1. Create a login : Fill in your company name, contact details, email address and password. (The registered email should be always accessible and can be changed)
2. Check your email : you will have received an email from ZSVR with "Activation Link from Zentrale Stelle Verpackungsregister" as subject, (no-reply@email.verpackungsregister.org) Don’t forget to check your spam and junk folders.
3. Activate your login : to activate the login, click on that link, where you will find the next steps. This link is only valid for 24h, after which it will expire.
   1. If your link has expired, you can request that the verification link be re-sent by logging in again under lucid.verpackungsregister.org with your e-mail address and chosen password. Select the 're-send activation e-mail' option.

You will need the following data ready, to complete your LUCID registration :

• Details about your packaging. To learn more about whether the Packaging Act applies to you and your products, visit this overview page.
  • During LUCID number registration, you'll need to specify the type of packaging you use, you can learn more about the different classifications of packaging by clicking here.

• A list of the brand names under which you place packaging filled with goods on the German market on a commercial basis : this specifically means the brand names appearing on your products, and can defer from the name of your brand on Faire. (Enter your company name for products without a brand name.)
• VAT number (‘Value added tax identification number’). If you do not have a VAT number, you will need your company’s taxpayer reference number.

• National identification number, the responsible authority and the date of issue should be provided as well.

If you need further guidance, support or have questions, please contact the ZSVR, you can use their hotline service or email them at anfrage@verpackungsregister.org.

How can I add my LUCID number to my Faire account?

Faire collects LUCID registration numbers in the brand portal. To add your LUCID number, go to the Export & Taxes tab in your account settings.

What do I need to do if I sell to Germany?

Every brand that ships products to Germany must be registered in the LUCID Packaging Register by July 1, 2022. To confirm if your business is registered, please check here. If you are not yet registered, you can review the guidance and register here.

What happens if I don’t register?

If you fail to comply with local regulations when selling products in Germany, consequences governed by the German authorities may apply, including fines up to 200,000 €.

If you don’t register in the LUCID Packaging Register, we may limit your ability to sell to retailers in Germany.

Can I confirm if my products are currently available to German retailers?

By default, brands will be available for sale in all locations where Faire is live. If you have not specifically blocked sales to Europe or Germany, your products are available for German retailers to order.

You’re responsible for complying with all laws, rules, and regulations in all countries/regions that you sell to. This includes but is not limited to: product safety, labeling requirements, testing, warnings, copyright, import/export regulations, and other consumer protection law requirements.

If you’re unable to comply with local regulations, please ensure that you have set your country restrictions appropriately. Learn more by visiting Can I control the locations where my shop is live?

Please note, this information is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. It is not intended to create a lawyer-client relationship. Please consult a licensed attorney for specific legal assistance.