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PPWR Art. 24: The 50% Void Space Rule

From 2030, e-commerce and grouped packaging must stay below 50% empty space. Here's the formula and who's affected.

·KomplyEU

The rule

Regulation (EU) 2025/40, Article 24: empty space must not exceed 50% of total package volume.

Applies from 1 January 2030 to:

  • E-commerce packaging (online orders shipped to consumers)
  • Grouped packaging (multipacks, club packs)
  • Transport packaging (outer boxes, pallets)

Sales packaging on retail shelves is exempt.

The formula

Void ratio = (Package volume − Product volume) / Package volume × 100%

A book (1,350 cm³) in a box (5,280 cm³) = 74.4% void. Non-compliant.

Same book in a right-sized box (2,700 cm³) = 50.0%. Compliant.

Check your packaging now

→ [PPWR Void Space Calculator](/tools/ppwr-void) — enter your dimensions, get your void ratio instantly.

→ [Full PPWR Compliance Wizard](/check) — check Art. 5, 6, 7, 9, 10 and 24 in one go.

Key dates

  • 1 Jan 2030: 50% limit applies
  • 1 Jan 2035: Commission may tighten to 40%

Source

[Regulation (EU) 2025/40, Art. 24](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2025/40/oj)