Empty Space Ratio Calculator
Check pack-out against the PPWR 50% empty space cap for grouped, transport and e-commerce packaging — from outer dimensions and product volume.
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PPWR Article 24 caps empty space at 50% for grouped, transport and e-commerce packaging from 2030. The exact calculation method is set by an implementing act (due Feb 2028) and allows some exemptions. Indicative only. See the Standards & Regulations hub.
How to use itCheck pack-out against the 50% cap
- Enter the outer packaging dimensions (length, width, height in mm) — the box, tray or e-commerce carton.
- Enter the volume of the contained products — the goods themselves, not the void fill. Switch between litres, cm³ and mL.
- Read the empty space ratio. The tool flags whether the pack is within the PPWR 50% cap or needs right-sizing.
Why it mattersWhy empty space is now regulated
Oversized boxes waste material, fuel and warehouse space, and from 2030 the PPWR makes them a compliance problem too. Article 24 sets a maximum empty space ratio of 50% for grouped, transport and e-commerce packaging — so a parcel more than half full of air no longer meets the rule. For online retailers and 3PLs shipping many SKUs in a few box sizes, this forces a move toward right-sizing, more box formats or on-demand cartonisation. Measuring the ratio across your real pack-outs shows which combinations breach the cap before an auditor does.
The mathsThe formula
Outer volume = length × width × height
Empty space is the volume inside the packaging not taken up by the products — the space filled with paper, air cushions, bubble wrap or foam. The ratio is that void divided by the total internal volume. Under PPWR it must not exceed 50% for grouped, transport and e-commerce packaging. The Commission's implementing act, due by February 2028, will fix the precise method and allow additional space where it is genuinely needed — irregular or fragile products, liquids, or mixed-size grouped items.
Getting under the capHow to cut empty space
The levers are more box sizes so each order ships in a closer fit, height-adjustable or telescopic cartons, on-demand box-making that builds to the order, and better cartonisation logic in the warehouse system. Even a modest increase in the number of standard box formats can pull a large share of orders under the 50% line. Right-sizing also cuts void fill, dimensional-weight shipping cost and the material tonnage that feeds your EPR bill — see the EPR fee estimator.
FAQFrequently asked questions
What is the PPWR empty space rule?
PPWR Article 24 sets a maximum empty space ratio of 50% for grouped, transport and e-commerce packaging from 2030. In other words, no more than half of the internal volume of the pack may be empty space or void fill.
How is the empty space ratio calculated?
It is the void volume divided by the total internal (outer) volume, as a percentage: (outer volume − product volume) ÷ outer volume × 100. The outer volume is the pack's length × width × height.
What counts as empty space?
The volume inside the packaging not occupied by the products — the space taken up by fillers such as paper, air cushions, bubble wrap or foam. The products themselves are not empty space; the protective void around them is.
When does the 50% empty space limit apply?
From 1 January 2030, or three years after the related implementing acts enter into force, whichever is later. The Commission is due to publish the detailed calculation method by February 2028, including allowances for irregular, fragile or mixed-size items.
How can I reduce empty space in my packaging?
Offer more box sizes so orders ship in a closer fit, use height-adjustable or telescopic cartons, adopt on-demand box-making, and improve cartonisation logic. Right-sizing also lowers void fill, shipping cost and packaging tonnage.