Quick answer: Map each product to its waste streams in every EU market you sell or store stock in, then register with each national scheme directly or through a compliance service. Expect a registration fee plus a volume-based eco-contribution per country and stream, and anywhere from a few days to a few weeks before you get a number to enter in Manage Your Compliance.
Knowing you need EPR is one thing; actually getting registered is another. This is the practical, step-by-step companion to our EPR country guide — what to do, what it costs, and how long each register takes before your Amazon listings clear.
Step 1: Work out your streams and markets
List every EU marketplace you sell in or store stock in, then map each product to its waste streams: packaging (almost always), plus WEEE, batteries and, where live, textiles. This grid tells you exactly how many registrations you need.
Step 2: Register in each country
Register directly with each national scheme or through a compliance service. Germany means the LUCID packaging register plus a dual-system contract, and stiftung ear for WEEE/batteries — with an authorised representative if you are non-German. France uses approved eco-organisations that issue a UIN per stream. Spain, Italy and Austria each have their own registers and portals.
Step 3: Understand the costs
Two cost layers apply: a registration/administration fee, and an eco-contribution scaled to the volume and material of what you place on the market. A low-volume seller might pay modest annual fees per country; a high-volume seller pays more because the contribution tracks tonnage. Budget per country, per stream — the costs stack across markets.
Step 4: Timelines and Seller Central
Some registers issue a number within days; others, and anything needing a representative or dual-system contract, take a few weeks — so start before you need to sell. Once you have each number, enter it under Manage Your Compliance for the right marketplace and category. Then set a calendar reminder: EPR volume declarations recur every year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does EPR registration take?
From a few days for simple registers to a few weeks where an authorised representative or dual-system contract is required. Start early rather than waiting until a listing is at risk.
How much does EPR cost per country?
A registration/admin fee plus an eco-contribution based on your volumes and materials. Low-volume sellers pay proportionally less; costs add up across countries and streams.
Can one service register me in all countries?
Yes. Compliance services and authorised representatives can register and report across multiple EU markets and streams on your behalf, which many sellers find simpler than doing each portal themselves.
What do I upload to Amazon?
Each valid EPR registration number, entered under Manage Your Compliance for the correct marketplace and product category. Keep the numbers and annual declarations current.
Not sure what your catalogue needs across the EU? Book a free consultation. This is general guidance, not legal advice.