LUCID is the German central packaging register. Anyone who places products on the German market in packaging must register – even small Czech online shops.

What needs to be done:

• Register on the official LUCID website.

• Provide company information and specify the types of packaging you use.

• Choose a partner in the so-called "dual system" who will handle recycling on your behalf.

• Sign a contract with this partner.

• Report the amount of packaging you place on the market each year.

Registration in the LUCID system is free of charge. At least for now, you don’t need to establish a German legal entity (e.g. GmbH) to register.

Recycling fees via your dual system partner: Typically €150–200 per year for small businesses. For larger companies, the costs can reach several thousand euros.

First of all, it’s important to note that WEEE registration is both administratively and financially demanding.

If you sell electrical appliances, electronics, or even just products with batteries, you are required to register with Stiftung EAR. This system monitors who places electrical and electronic equipment on the German market and how they ensure proper recycling.

What to expect:

• If you don’t have a company based in Germany (e.g. a GmbH), you’ll need a local authorised representative who will register you in the system. This may be the same partner you use for packaging recycling (dual system).

• Electronic equipment is divided into several categories (e.g. by size). Each brand and product category must be registered separately – for example: irons, washing machines, and batteries from a single brand = 3 registrations.

• One registration typically costs around €60.

• After registration, you must regularly report sales volumes and pay recycling fees.

• Before you submit your registration, clarify internally which electronic devices you plan to sell in Germany and prepare the necessary product data. It is essential to carefully assign each product and brand to the correct category.

• Your German partner will then submit the application to Stiftung EAR on your behalf. Approval by the German authorities may take 6–8 weeks.

• You’ll typically pay the German intermediary a basic service fee, plus a volume-based fee depending on the amount of goods sold. The fees may look as follows:

Products cannot be legally sold without registration.

Anyone who has ever filled out spreadsheets for LUCID or EAR knows that without well-organized data, it's nearly impossible. Clearly named files, version control, and simple records of sold goods or used packaging can save you a lot of time.

Large companies today use tools that help them automate document processing – often with the help of artificial intelligence. But in smaller businesses, a solid spreadsheet system and consistent approach are usually enough.

However, don’t underestimate this administrative obligation when expanding to Germany. Plan your internal resources in the long term so that you’re able to submit reports regularly.

If you want to sell in Germany, there are two essential registrations you’ll need:

LUCID – for all types of packaging
Stiftung EAR – for all electronic equipment

Both registrations come with their own rules, fees, and deadlines. It’s nothing dramatic – but you do need to start early and stay organized.

Need help entering the German market?
Book a one-on-one consultation with us – we've already helped many Czech e-shops successfully expand to Germany.