What is the 40% rule for e-commerce parcels (PPWR)?

Short answer: The 40% rule in the Packaging Regulation (PPWR, Regulation (EU) 2025/40) means the empty space in an e-commerce parcel may not exceed 40% from 12 August 2026. The aim is less air, less filler material and smaller parcels.

What the rule actually requires

The PPWR entered into force on 11 February 2025 and applies from 12 August

1. From that date, e-commerce parcels must keep their **empty space to a

maximum of 40%**. In practice this means the ratio between the volume of the packaging and the volume of the goods shipped (including any necessary protective material) has to stay within that limit.

A key point: a regulation applies directly in all Member States. No national transposition is needed — the requirements apply across the EU in the same way from the date of application.

How it relates to transport packaging

The 40% rule for e-commerce parcels sits alongside a separate requirement for transport and shipping packaging: there, empty space may not exceed 50% from 2030. The PPWR also sets reusability targets for transport and industrial packaging, plus broader requirements on recyclability and recycled content. The 40% rule is therefore one part of a wider package designed to cut packaging waste.

What this means for your operation

For anyone shipping e-commerce orders or running fulfilment, this is an operational task, not a marketing question. Box sizes, your range of packaging, filler material and the packing process all need to be aligned with the 40% limit. Start early: map your current parcels, measure the average empty space and adjust your box strategy before 12 August 2026. This not only reduces compliance risk but, over time, also lowers transport and material costs.

Read the main file: PPWR and your logistics. Or take the Transport & Logistics scan.