EU Batteries RegulationArticle 13

EU Batteries Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2023/1542) Labeling and consumer information

Labeling in the Batteries Regulation is a controlled product artifact, not just packaging artwork.

The label, QR code, declaration links, and waste information should be managed as one connected information system.

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Author

Sorena AI

Published

Feb 21, 2026

Updated

Feb 21, 2026

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Sorena AI

Published Feb 21, 2026

Updated Feb 21, 2026

Overview

Article 13 creates a phased label regime. Article 74 adds waste prevention and management information that also has to reach end users and distributors. The practical challenge is to keep the physical mark, the digital destination, and the underlying product data aligned over time.

Section 1

The phased label schedule

From 18 August 2025, all batteries must be marked with the separate collection symbol. From 18 August 2026 or 18 months after the implementing act, whichever is later, batteries must bear the broader labels in Article 13 paragraphs 1 to 3. From 18 February 2027, all batteries must be marked with a QR code as described in Part C of Annex VI.

These dates should be reflected in packaging change control and release calendars.

18 August 2025: separate collection symbol.
18 August 2026 or later trigger: general label information, capacity, and non rechargeable labels as applicable.
18 February 2027: QR code for all batteries.
18 August 2025: harmonized label specifications expected through implementing acts.

Section 2

What the QR code must lead to

The destination changes by category. For LMT batteries, industrial batteries above 2 kWh, and EV batteries, the QR code must give access to the battery passport under Article 77. For other batteries, it must provide the applicable label information, the declaration of conformity, the battery due diligence report under Article 52(3), and the Article 74 information on prevention and management of waste batteries. For SLI batteries it must also provide the recycled content information required by Article 8.

This means one QR pattern can serve all categories only if the resolver knows the category and routes to the correct content set.

Passport route for in scope passport categories.
Declaration and waste information route for other categories.
Article 52(3) due diligence report linkage where applicable.
SLI recycled content linkage where Article 8 data applies.

Section 3

Usability and accessibility

The Regulation expects labels and QR codes to be visible, legible, indelible, and accessible. The recitals also point to accessibility for persons with disabilities. Treat this as a UX and accessibility problem, not only a print problem.

The QR landing page should be easy to navigate, stable over time, and not hide basic required information behind unnecessary gates.

Readable contrast and size for the QR code and physical labels.
Persistent digital destination with minimal failure risk.
Accessible landing page structure and plain language copy.
Version control linking physical label versions to digital content versions.

Section 4

Article 74 information package

Article 74 requires information for end users and distributors regarding prevention and management of waste batteries. This includes collection arrangements, prevention measures, preparation for re use and repurposing where relevant, the role of end users, and the meaning of labels and symbols. The QR route is the most efficient way to keep that information current, but the content still needs an owner and review cycle.

A well managed Article 74 information package reduces waste handling mistakes and also helps enterprise customers understand the lifecycle expectations.

Explain where and how waste batteries can be returned.
Explain the role of end users in separate collection.
Explain the meaning of the labels and symbols.
Keep the information aligned with Member State collection arrangements where relevant.

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