How to Streamline Complex EPR Compliance: 5 Essential Tips for Brands

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws are rapidly expanding across the United States, with seven states already enacting packaging regulations and more on the horizon. As compliance deadlines approach, brands are discovering that EPR reporting can be overwhelming without the right strategy. Here are five proven tips to streamline your EPR compliance process.

1. Start with Smart Data Collection

The biggest time sink in EPR compliance is gathering packaging data across multiple teams and systems. Focus on collecting only the data you actually need for reporting—don't boil the ocean. Work with sales, procurement, and product teams to identify your covered materials and establish clear data collection templates. Many brands waste weeks hunting down irrelevant information when a targeted approach can reduce data collection time by 70%.

2. Understand Your Reporting Options

Most brands don't realize they have choices in how they report and pay EPR fees. Low-volume producers often have multiple reporting pathways with dramatically different fee structures. For example, some brands have saved thousands by choosing comprehensive reporting over flat-fee options, while others benefit from the reverse. Understanding these nuances can mean the difference between paying $360 and $4,400 for the same compliance obligation—and the risk of overpaying only grows as you expand to more states.

3. Plan for Multi-State Scalability

Don't treat each state as a separate project. Design your data architecture and processes to work across all current and future EPR states. While Oregon, Colorado, and California have different reporting structures, the core packaging data requirement remains largely consistent. Building scalable systems upfront transforms future compliance from months-long projects into simple data exports.

4. Identify Exemptions and Optimize Categories

EPR regulations include numerous exemptions and material categorizations that significantly impact your fees. Durable packaging, certain compostable materials, and products below tonnage thresholds may be exempt or qualify for reduced fees. Additionally, proper material categorization across 140+ possible categories can substantially reduce your annual dues.

5. Build Internal Expertise—But Don’t Reinvent the Wheel

EPR isn't going away—it's expanding rapidly. Invest in building internal knowledge about packaging regulations, fee structures, and reporting requirements to build a strong foundation for what’s to come. However, recognize when external expertise can accelerate your timeline, improve accuracy, and reduce the risk of costly missteps—especially as regulations continue to evolve.

Getting Expert Support

Working with someone who knows the ins and outs of EPR can turn a stressful, expensive process into a smooth, low-cost one. It’s the difference between simply checking a box and truly getting it right—setting your brand up for long-term success as EPR expands state by state.

rePurpose Global has guided 300+ brands through EPR compliance and packaging claims, reducing typical 2+ month processes to approximately 2 weeks. Our platform handles the complexity of multi-state reporting while optimizing fees and ensuring accurate categorization.

With EPR deadlines approaching and enforcement mechanisms strengthening, taking action now protects your brand from fines up to $25,000 per day while positioning you for seamless compliance across all future states.

Ready to streamline your EPR compliance? Schedule a consultation with rePurpose Global to learn how we can reduce your compliance timeline and optimize your fees.