PPWR TESTING BY AN ACCREDITED TESTING LABORATORY
Testing
PPWR-compliant
packaging
The PPWR has been mandatory in all 27 EU member states since August 12, 2026. PPWR requires a change in materials. But whether it's paper instead of plastic, thinner walls, or new padding – only a test will show whether your packaging will survive its journey to your customer.
Packaging and Packaging
Waste Regulation (PPWR)
Requirements
The new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) is the European regulation governing packaging and packaging waste. Its goal is to make packaging more sustainable, reduce packaging volumes, and strengthen the circular economy in Europe.
For companies, this means that packaging should contain only as much material as is actually necessary to protect the product and ensure it is safely stored, transported, and handled. The PPWR therefore requires that packaging be optimized in terms of its function, volume, and weight. Oversized or unnecessarily material-intensive packaging should be avoided.
At the same time, one key requirement remains:
The packaging must continue to reliably protect the product. This is precisely where BFSV Verpackungsinstitut Hamburg GmbH comes in.
Which types of packaging can be tested?
The BFSV checks, among other things:
Parcel packaging
Transport packaging
E-commerce packaging
Industrial packaging
Consumer goods packaging
Tertiary packaging
Why are packaging tests important for the PPWR?
Many companies are working to reduce the use of packaging materials, make packaging lighter, or reduce packaging volume.
But every change raises important questions:
Is the product adequately protected during transport?
Can the packaging withstand impacts, vibrations, and drops?
Is the packaging suitable for storage and stacking?
Can material be saved without compromising product safety?
What documentation is needed for internal decisions or to meet customer requirements?
Packaging optimization should therefore always be technically validated. Through practical packaging tests, BFSV Verpackungsinstitut Hamburg GmbH helps companies balance the requirements of the PPWR with product protection and transportability.
Your Benefits
What You Gain from a BFSV Test.
You will receive results that are comprehensibly documented and can serve as a basis for internal decisions and communication with customers or partners.
Verifiable product safety
Tests show whether packaging still provides adequate protection even after material reductions.
Reduction in packaging material
Opportunities for optimization can be identified and validated
Fewer shipping damages
Stress tests help identify weak points early on.
Greater sustainability
Material savings support environmental and sustainability goals.
Independent expertise
The BFSV is neither a manufacturer nor a supplier. Our expert reports are independent—and therefore credible.
Communicate “PPWR-ready”
With a verified test report, you can communicate both sustainability and quality at once—to retailers, end customers, and regulatory authorities.
Four steps to certified packaging.
Initial Contact
Request a test and work help us to understand your packaging challenges
Test Planning
We recommend the relevant test programs—tailored to your supply chain.
Testing
Impact, drop, climate, vibration — under standardized, reproducible conditions in accordance with internationally recognized standards
Results & Report
A transparent test report identifying weak points and providing reliable documentation.
Our Services for PPWR-Compliant Packaging
Transport Testing
Simulation of typical stresses along the supply chain.
These include:
Road transport
Parcel and courier service logistics
Air freight
Rail transport
Sea freight
Drop tests: Testing the protective effect of the packaging under impact and drop loads.
Vibration tests: Simulation of transport-related vibration loads and shocks.
Stack pressure tests: Evaluation of load-bearing capacity during storage and logistics processes.
Climate tests: Analysis of packaging behavior under various temperature and humidity conditions.
Packaging optimization: Support for material reductions and packaging adjustments while taking PPWR requirements into account.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions about PPWR
Who should consider these Tests?
Any company that is changing its packaging in accordance with the PPWR—whether a manufacturer, retailer, or e-commerce operator. This is particularly important when switching materials or implementing new reusable packaging concepts.
How long does a test take?
Depending on the scope of the test, it can take anywhere from a few days to about two weeks. During our initial consultation, we’ll discuss which test scope fits your specific challenge.
What standards are applied?
We work in accordance with internationally recognized standards for transport safety testing, such as ISTA (International Safe Transit Association) and ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) standards.
How much does a test cost?
That depends on the test program. We’ll provide you with a customized, no-obligation quote. Please contact us.
Why BFSV? Top-quality testing and consulting since 1954.
The PPWR requirements make packaging optimization a strategic issue for many companies. BFSV supports manufacturers, brand owners, and retailers with independent testing and technical evaluations to make packaging more sustainable while ensuring its protective function.
Have your packaging tested and lay the foundation for a safe and sustainable implementation of the PPWR requirements.
ISTA
Certified
ASTM
Recognized
DAkkS
Accredited
70+
Accredited
Act now
How can we support you?
The PPWR guidelines are relevant now. Make sure your new packaging is not only sustainable – but also effective.
We are available Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Your contacts
Karolina Behrens
Dipl.-Ing.
Head of Laboratory for Shipping Simulation
