Wood Packaging EPR Guide
Complete guide to wood packaging EPR obligations. Covers pallets, crates, timber packaging, and reuse exemptions.
Fee Rate 2025-26
£280/tonne
UK Recycling Rate
45% (2024 UK figure)
Recyclability
Recyclable through chipping/shredding. Can be composted, used for biomass energy...
Common Wood Packaging
Wood packaging carries an EPR fee rate of £280/tonne for 2025-2026, placing it between paper/card and plastic. The key consideration for wood is the distinction between single-trip and reusable packaging.
Reusable Packaging Exemption
Wooden pallets and crates in a documented closed-loop reuse system (e.g., CHEP, LPR) may be exempt from EPR obligations. To qualify, you must:
- Operate a documented reuse system with tracked return rates
- Prove pallets/crates are genuinely reused (not discarded after one trip)
- Keep records of trip counts and end-of-life disposal
One-way pallets and timber packaging that is discarded after a single use are NOT exempt and must be reported.
ISPM-15 Treatment
International timber packaging must be ISPM-15 heat-treated for phytosanitary compliance. This treatment does not affect EPR classification — treated and untreated timber packaging are both reported under wood.
Modulated Fee Impact (RAM)
Wood scores moderately under RAM. Recyclability depends on treatment — untreated wood scores better than chemically treated timber.
Sectors Using Wood Packaging
Construction & Building
EPR compliance for UK construction material suppliers. Track packaging for building products, fixings, and tools....
Industrial & Manufacturing
EPR compliance for UK industrial product suppliers. Track packaging for components, machinery parts, and bulk materials....
Agriculture & Farming
EPR compliance for UK agricultural suppliers. Track packaging for feed, fertiliser, seeds, and farm supplies....
Wine & Spirits
EPR compliance for UK wine, spirits, and craft drinks companies. Track bottles, closures, labels, and gift packaging....
Wood EPR Questions
Are wooden pallets exempt from EPR?
Only if they are in a documented closed-loop reuse system. CHEP and LPR pallets typically qualify. One-way pallets that are discarded after a single use must be reported as wood packaging under EPR.
How do I report wooden crates?
Weigh the empty crate and report under wood material. Large industrial crates can weigh 50-200kg+ each, so accurate weighing is essential.
Is wood wool (excelsior) packaging?
Yes. Wood wool used as void fill or protective packaging is classified as wood packaging under EPR. Report by weight.
Does ISPM-15 treatment affect EPR classification?
No. Heat-treated (ISPM-15 stamped) timber packaging is classified the same as untreated wood for EPR purposes.
Need help with wood packaging compliance?
Start your free trial and get your EPR reporting sorted in minutes.
Start Your Free Trial