LUCID in 2024: Understanding Registration and Costs

What is LUCID?

LUCID, stemming from the Verpackungsgesetz (VerpackG) enacted on January 1, 2019, pertains to the registration of packaging materials introduced into the German market. This law mandates foreign retailers to register the types and quantities of packaging they introduce annually, with corresponding recycling fees applied. This requirement spans various materials like paper, plastic, metal, aluminum, and glass packaging.

If you run an online shop or sell on a marketplace and send goods to end users in Germany even once a year, you must:

• register in the LUCID register,
• sign an AGREEMENT with the selected German recycling organisation,
• draw up an annual REPORT,
• pay the RECYCLING FEES.

LUCID Registration: Who Needs to Register?

Registration with the LUCID Central Packaging Register is obligatory for entities that commercially introduce packaged goods into the German market for the first time. This includes manufacturers, dealers collaborating with manufacturers, exporters to Germany, importers, mail-order companies, and online shops catering to German consumers.

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Registration Process and Costs

Registration Procedure

Registering with LUCID is free, but it requires self-initiation. The process involves creating an account, providing necessary information, and declaring the annual volume of packaging. A video guide is available to assist with the registration process.

Penalties for Non-Registration

Failure to register invites severe penalties, including fines of up to €100,000 for not adding packaging data to the system and up to €200,000 for non-registration.

Deregistration

Entities ceasing to introduce notified packaging in Germany must deregister from LUCID via the platform, confirming termination electronically.

Licensing Costs

While registration is free, obtaining a license necessitates contracting with a German recycling company and declaring packaging volumes. Costs vary among providers, influenced by upfront fees and packaging quantities. A cost simulation suggests a range of €3,849 to €6,585 based on assumed packaging weights (we have assumed 1,000 kg for each of the packaging categories). 

Full list of recycling companies here:

• BellandVision GmbH,
• Der Grüne Punkt – Duales System Deutschland GmbH,
• EKO-PUNKT GmbH & CO. KG,
• INTERSEROH+ GmbH / / Lizenzero,
• Landbell AG für Rückhol-Systeme,
• Noventitz Dual GmbH,
• PreZero Dual GmbH,
• Reclay Systems GmbH,
• Recykling Dual GmbH,
• Zentek GmbH & Co. KG.

Conclusion

Navigating LUCID registration is vital for businesses involved in shipping to Germany. Given the increasing significance of ecological concerns in logistics, similar regulations may emerge in other countries. Thus, understanding and complying with such measures are essential for sustainable operations and future waste management trends.

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Now equipped with an understanding of LUCID registration, you’re better prepared to navigate this essential aspect of logistics, particularly for operations involving Germany. Stay ahead of evolving environmental regulations to ensure sustainable business practices in the future.