If you run an e-commerce business selling or shipping packaged goods to customers in Germany, there’s an important legal step you can’t skip: registering with the LUCID Packaging Register.
As of 2025, Germany has reinforced its regulations under the Packaging Act (VerpackG), and non-compliance could mean serious penalties—including removal from marketplaces and fines up to €200,000.
What Is the LUCID Packaging Register?
LUCID is Germany’s official packaging register, managed by the Zentrale Stelle Verpackungsregister (ZSVR). It ensures that all companies placing packaging on the German market take responsibility for its disposal and recycling.
Whether you’re a manufacturer, online seller, or importer, if your goods are packaged and sent to customers in Germany, you must be registered—even if your company is based outside the country.
Who Needs to Register?
The registration obligation applies to:
- Online retailers and mail-order sellers (including Amazon, eBay, Etsy sellers)
- Importers of packaged products into Germany
- Manufacturers and private label brands
- Distributors of service packaging (e.g., takeaway containers, carrier bags)
- No business is too small. If you ship anything with packaging that ends up with private customers in Germany, you’re included.
How to Register on LUCID
To register, follow these steps:
1. Create a Producer Account
Go to lucid.verpackungsregister.org/login and sign up. You’ll need to provide:
- Company name and address
- Contact details
- National or VAT ID number
2. Submit Required Information
You’ll be asked to declare:
- Type of packaging you use (e.g., retail, grouped, shipment, service)
- Brand names under which your products are sold (or your company name)
- Confirmation of system participation (more on that below)
3. Conclude a System Participation Contract
If your packaging is considered “system-participating” (usually anything that reaches private consumers), you must also:
- Sign a contract with a dual system provider (e.g., Der Grüne Punkt, Interseroh, etc.)
- Pay a fee based on the volume and type of packaging
- This ensures your packaging waste is properly collected and recycled.
4. Report Data Annually
You must regularly report the quantity and type of packaging placed on the market to both:
- Your dual system provider
- The LUCID Packaging Register
What Happens If You Don’t Register?
Failing to comply with the VerpackG regulations can have serious consequences:
- Fines of up to €200,000
- Sales bans within Germany
- Account suspension on major marketplaces (e.g., Amazon, eBay)
Marketplaces are now required to check that sellers are properly registered. If you don’t provide your LUCID registration number, you risk losing your selling privileges.
Final Tips for Sellers
Register early: The process can take a few days—don’t wait until it’s too late.
Use accurate data: Incorrect reporting may lead to audits or penalties.
Stay compliant: Your registration must be updated and maintained annually.
Useful Links:
🔗 LUCID Registration Portal
🔗 Packaging Overview – ZSVR
🔗 Guide for Online Retailers
Feel free to contact us if you’d need assistance registering for Lucid!