Direct answer
Start DRS preparation with the exact container scope, SKU register and scheme-labelling requirements. Then prove that redesigned labels or cans can be printed, verified, applied and reconciled at normal production speed without creating mixed old and new stock.
Confirm which drinks containers are in scope
Current GOV.UK guidance for England and Northern Ireland states that the scheme is due to apply from 1 October 2027 to specified single-use drinks containers made wholly or mainly from PET plastic, aluminium or steel, with a capacity from 150 ml to 3 litres. Exclusions and responsibilities must be checked against the final scheme guidance for the nation where the product is supplied.
Build a controlled SKU list showing container material, nominal volume, brand owner, filling location and destination market. Do not rely on the product description alone; the packaging material, capacity and intended use determine the production work required.
Plan label, barcode and artwork change control
The production line may need revised artwork, scheme labelling and data control. Establish who releases artwork, how old labels or printed cans will be segregated, and which code or identifier is verified before a run is released.
Test the smallest and largest containers at normal speed. Check print contrast, barcode or 2D-code quality, label position, scuffing, condensation and the effect of shrink sleeves or curved can surfaces.
Prevent mixed compliant and non-compliant stock
A transition creates a traceability risk if old and new materials are stored together. Use distinct material codes, effective dates, line-clearance checks and finished-goods status controls. Where contract packers are involved, define who supplies and approves compliant packaging and who reports output.
Add a start-up verification record that links the scheduled SKU, approved artwork, packaging batch and first-off inspection. A scanner or vision system can support control, but the data and reject response still need to be defined.
Reconcile containers placed on the market
Current guidance describes producer registration, deposits, scheme labelling and reporting of drinks placed on the market. Production and commercial data therefore need a common identifier and clear treatment of rejects, samples, rework, exports and stock transfers.
Run a dry reconciliation before launch. Compare packaging issued, good production, waste, rework and sales or supply data. Investigate differences before they become part of a statutory report.
Information to prepare
- Confirm nation, material and capacity scope for every SKU
- Create DRS and non-DRS packaging material codes
- Approve artwork and code specifications
- Test print and scan performance at full line speed
- Define line clearance and mixed-stock controls
- Link production counts to the required report data
- Plan the cut-over date and obsolete-material treatment
Bottle Labellers
Bottle and container labelling routes for revised artwork, scheme marks and variable production formats.
Official references
Check the current source before relying on dates, thresholds or legal duties.