Cosys ensures transparency in the reusable cycle

With the PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation), an EU-wide legal framework for packaging has been in force since February 2025 and will be binding from August 12, 2026. The aim of the regulation is to reduce packaging waste, increase the use of recyclates and strengthen the circular economy. The scope of application is broad and affects all packaging and packaging waste in trade, industry and households.

PPWR compliance depends not only on the "right packaging design", but above all on transparent processes and reliable data: Which reusable containers are on the move? Where are they currently located? How often are they used? Where do losses or breaks occur in the cycle? This is where Cosys container management comes in.

Container management via WebDesk

Container management means organizing, monitoring and optimizing processes relating to reusable containers (pallets, crates, mesh boxes), including inventory transparency, movement tracking and regulated return and reuse. Movement data is recorded by barcode scan (via MDE device or smartphone) and all data is collated in the Cosys WebDesk.

• Documentation and verification in the reusable cycle: Deliveries, returns and stock transfers are recorded, including allocation to the recipient. Optionally, additional documents such as photos or signatures can also be saved - helpful for internal checks, partner reconciliations and audits.
• Reduce shrinkage, avoid repeat purchases: Consistent movement recording reduces the loss rate. Less replacement procurement means less resource consumption and less overhead in the container and packaging system.
• Accounts, histories and differences become transparent: In the WebDesk, loading equipment accounts can be checked, movements can be tracked chronologically and discrepancies can be identified more quickly. Evaluations can reveal missing returns, circulation frequencies or damage, for example.
• Automation and system connection: Functions such as automatic backups, notifications, import/export and interfaces (e.g. towards ERP) ensure that container data does not remain isolated, but can be integrated into existing processes.
• Operating model: Depending on the requirements, operation is possible locally (on-premise) or in the cloud, in line with internal compliance and IT guidelines.

Cosys Business Intelligence also converts this process data into meaningful key figures, dashboards and forecasts. Early warning mechanisms, trend analyses and automated reports help to avoid bottlenecks and manage returnable cycles sustainably. In this way, Cosys helps companies to prepare for the PPWR requirements in good time and in a practical manner.

For reusable and container processes, this means that important key figures are immediately available: Turnaround times, stock levels, return rates or loss hotspots become measurable. If threshold values are exceeded (e.g. critical stock levels, conspicuously high number of open returns), automated alerts can be triggered before bottlenecks occur. AI-supported forecasts and projections can help to identify seasonal effects early on and plan container requirements in a more stable manner. If additional sources (e.g. order, location or weather data) are integrated, reusable and transport flows can be better classified and optimized in a more targeted manner.