Exchange for Change has published a material specification outlining the technical requirements for drinks containers included in the UK’s Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), as industry prepares for the scheme’s launch in October 2027.

The specification sets out the criteria containers must meet to be accepted by Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs), covering materials, design, labelling and identification requirements to support efficient recycling and high-quality material recovery.

It applies to PET plastic, aluminium and steel containers ranging from 150ml to 3-litres, and is intended to give producers clarity on any packaging changes required ahead of implementation.

Technical requirements set out for container design and identification

According to the document, containers must meet defined dimensional and structural requirements to ensure compatibility with RVM systems, with cylindrical formats preferred to support automated take-back. Non-standard shapes may require additional testing to confirm they can be processed through machines.

Material performance is also addressed, with minimum compaction thresholds set at 55% for PET bottles and 75% for aluminium and steel cans to enable efficient processing.

A key focus of the specification is product identification. All in-scope containers must carry a compliant barcode linked to Exchange for Change’s Article List, with existing barcodes requiring updates. The system will rely on a combination of barcode recognition, shape detection, weight verification and metal detection, with a minimum combined accuracy of 95% required for RVM acceptance.

The document also sets out detailed guidance on barcode format, quality and placement, including requirements for GS1-compliant codes and positioning to ensure readability during collection.

In addition, labelling requirements are outlined, including the introduction of a UK DRS deposit logo, which will be mandatory for in-scope products. Producers are advised to limit label coverage on bottles to improve the quality of recycled material and support the circular economy goals of the scheme.

Registration timelines and exemptions

Ahead of the scheme’s launch, producers will be required to register all products with Exchange for Change by July 2027, allowing time for onboarding and testing. Products in non-standard formats may require physical testing to confirm compatibility with RVM equipment.

The specification also introduces a low-volume product exemption for smaller producers, applying to products with limited annual unit volumes. These products remain subject to registration requirements but are exempt from certain fees and labelling obligations.

Russell Davies, CEO of Exchange for Change, said: “The publication of our material specification is a milestone in providing producers with the clarity they need to prepare for the Deposit Return Scheme. It sets out in practical terms how packaging should be labelled so it can work effectively within the system from day one."

He continued: “Our focus is on making sure businesses have the time, certainty and support they need. By publishing this guidance now, we’re helping producers plan ahead, align packaging changes with their existing cycles and avoid unnecessary disruption as we move towards launch."

“This is part of our wider work to support industry readiness for the deposit return scheme’s launch in October next year. We will continue to provide further detail, guidance and engagement opportunities as the scheme develops.”