Frequently asked questions

A structured digital record for a product, accessed by scanning a data carrier like a QR code, sharing information on identity, materials, environmental performance, compliance and end-of-life handling.

A unique identifier is encoded in a carrier on the product. Scanning it hits a resolver that returns the passport information the viewer is entitled to see.

No. The QR code is only the carrier. The passport is the maintained data behind it, including access rights and update history.

A digital twin models a product's real-time behaviour, usually for engineering. A DPP is a regulated, standardised information record for compliance and circularity.

There is no single date. Batteries: 18 February 2027. Detergents: 23 September 2029. Toys: 1 August 2030. ESPR product groups follow their delegated acts, from around 2028.

Initially EV, LMT and industrial batteries over 2 kWh, then construction products, detergents, toys and ESPR priority groups: steel, textiles, aluminium, tyres, furniture, mattresses and electronics.

Yes. Any in-scope product placed on the EU market needs one, wherever it is made.

Generally no for passports, although delegated acts can include simplifications. Micro and small enterprises are exempt from the unsold-goods destruction ban.

The economic operator placing the product on the market — usually the manufacturer, or the importer for non-EU goods.

No. Omnibus IV delayed battery due diligence to 18 August 2027; the 18 February 2027 passport date is unchanged.

Only when item-level granularity is required, as for batteries. Many product groups may use model or batch level.

Yes. GTINs work as model-level identifiers and can be combined with batch or serial numbers through GS1 Digital Link.

QR is the most common and cheapest. NFC suits premium or design-sensitive products. RFID suits logistics. Many brands combine them.

Yes. GS1 Digital Link QR codes can be read by retail scanners and smartphones.

No. Blockchain is an optional technology choice, never a legal requirement.

With the responsible operator or its service provider. The EU central registry stores identifiers, not full passports.

Passports are about products, not people. Where personal data appears, such as ownership, normal GDPR rules apply and should be minimised.

Confirm scope, map your data, collect supplier data, choose identifiers and carriers, publish on a DPP platform and test access and updates.

A model-level pilot can take weeks. Full supply-chain readiness typically takes 6–18 months.

Most cost lies in data collection and integration. Platform fees vary by volume; budget for the product's whole lifetime.

Most businesses buy. Building means maintaining standards compliance, security and long-term availability yourself.

ESPR requires a backup copy with an independent provider. Owning your QR domain and export rights makes migration possible.

Customer engagement, warranties, resale, repair services, anti-counterfeiting and credible sustainability claims.