What Is an EPR Number & How to Get One (2026)
An EPR number proves you're registered for packaging compliance. What it is, why marketplaces demand it, and how to get one in each EU country.
What Is an EPR Number and How Do You Get One?
If you sell physical products across the EU, you have likely received an urgent warning from your marketplace or shipping partner demanding your EPR number. But what exactly is it, and how do you get an EPR number? In short, an EPR registration number is official proof that you comply with environmental laws and are financially supporting the recycling of your packaging. This guide explains what it is, why platforms require it, and the exact steps to register in key European markets.
What is an EPR registration number?
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) requires businesses to finance the end-of-life recycling of the packaging they introduce to a market. When you register with a national environmental authority to fulfill this obligation, you are issued a unique EPR number.
This identifier proves to the government and your business partners that you are a compliant producer. You must often display this number on your invoices, storefront, or marketplace profile. Crucially, there is no single EU-wide registration portal. You must European Commission requirement to register and report packaging waste on a per-country basis, obtaining a distinct number for each individual country where you sell goods. For a broader overview of the policy, read our guide on What is EPR.
Why do marketplaces require an EPR number for Amazon?
In recent years, countries like Germany and France introduced strict marketplace liability laws. This means platforms like Amazon, eBay, and Etsy are legally liable if their third-party sellers dodge their environmental fees.
To protect themselves from massive regulatory fines, these platforms strictly enforce the rules. They will actively block your sales and suspend your listings if you do not have a valid EPR number for Amazon on your Seller Central profile. You cannot bypass this requirement if you wish to sell on major online channels.
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How to get an EPR number in key EU countries
The registration process varies wildly depending on the specific country your packaging ends up in. Here is how the process works in three major e-commerce markets.
Getting a LUCID number in Germany
In Germany, the EPR registration number is commonly referred to as a LUCID number.
- You must register directly with the Central Agency Packaging Register (ZSVR) via the LUCID web portal operated by the German ZSVR.
- Registration is free and there is zero minimum threshold. You must be registered before you ship your first box.
- After obtaining your LUCID number, you must sign a contract with a private dual system to pay your actual packaging fees.
Getting an IDU in France
France uses the Identifiant Unique (IDU).
- To get your IDU France, you do not register directly with the government first.
- Instead, you must affiliate with an approved Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO) such as Citeo or Léko.
- Once you join the PRO, they will register you with the national authority (ADEME via the SYDEREP portal) and issue your unique IDU.
Registering in Sweden
In Sweden, the process requires direct engagement with the environmental protection agency.
- You must register your business directly with the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency (Naturvårdsverket).
- After receiving your registration confirmation, you must then affiliate with an approved PRO (such as NPA or TMR).
- The PRO handles the physical recycling financing and the ongoing reporting to the authorities on your behalf.
FAQ
What is an EPR number? An EPR number is a unique registration code issued by a national authority. It proves that your business complies with Extended Producer Responsibility laws for packaging waste.
How much does an EPR number cost? Obtaining the registration number from a national authority is typically free. However, you must pay ongoing packaging fees to a Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO) based on the weight and material of your shipments.
Do I need an EPR number for Amazon? Yes. Major marketplaces like Amazon are legally required to verify your EPR registration. If you fail to provide a valid EPR number, they will suspend your listings.
Is the EPR number valid across the whole EU? No. EPR obligations are managed on a per-country basis. You must register and obtain a unique EPR number in every single EU member state where you sell packaged goods.
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