Top tips for packaging data submissions

With the current year fast heading to a close, our packaging compliance team is looking ahead to 2022, preparing for the deadlines to register and submit packaging data for those companies that fall under the Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging Waste) Regulations 2007 and Amendments.

We are continually working to help make the data submission process easier for our members. We offer support throughout the year, working in partnership with our compliance members to provide hands-on support and tailored advice to ensure they comply with the regulations. As the deadline approaches for our packaging members to submit data to us through our online portal, our account managers are on hand to ensure our members complete this accurately, on time and as stress-free as possible. Here we share some of the tips we give to our members each year:

1. Start Early!

Being reliant on your suppliers providing accurate information means you should start the ball rolling by the end of December.

2. Set aside designated time for completion

It’s easy to think this can be put off for ‘when you’ve got time’ but it’s all too easy for the days to slip away. Set yourself blocks of time to focus purely on your data gathering.

3. Chase your suppliers

Brief your supplier in advance and ensure they know that the information you need is due in January. When setting aside time for data submission ensure to send out reminders to your suppliers that you require the weights. Tenacity is key – keep chasing those figures!

4. Get your head around the data form

Review the data submissions form in plenty of time and if you’ve got any issues get in touch with our team, we’re always on hand to help.

5. Don’t rely on last year’s data

Although production may be similar year on year, it’s essential that you provide accurate figures. Don’t rely on previous years’ data and then find yourself panicking the week before submissions because the figures need to be changed.

6. Have your draft submission completed a week before the deadline date

Ensuring you have a draft complete will allow you time to go over your figures and save you a lot of stress in the final week before the submission’s deadline 15th February.

7. Check your figures.

Thoroughly checking and double checking your data ensures no last-minute surprises.

8. Have a clear step-by-step outline of how to gather your information

a) Prepare analysis of the volumes of packaging materials you have used in the previous year e.g. Plastic, cardboard bought in around supplied products, imported, or added by you.

b) Prepare analysis of how you have used these materials

– Primary packaging: the packaging immediately around the product – the last packaging to be removed in use and often the first to be added.

– Secondary packaging: protective packaging that often binds several items of product together e.g. cardboard outer packaging that contains several product packs (often removed by a retailer).

– Tertiary packaging: shrink wrap, and binding packaging that protects multiple packs of product on their way from your premises to your customer (often shrink wrap, pallet padding, and wooden pallets on first use in UK).

Are you a member of Comply with Clarity?

If you are a member of our packaging compliance scheme, we will be in touch to let you know the deadlines and provide further instruction about submitting your data to us. Please do get in touch with your Account Manager as soon as possible if you are concerned about your data submission.

Need help with your data?

The changes to regulations around packaging are increasing the importance of data for businesses. Our specialist data team can help. With the right data and the right support, businesses can get the best outcomes for the environment and business. Get in touch with our team to find out how we can help.