China’s express delivery industry, which processed 174.5 billion parcels in 2024, has introduced stricter measures to cut packaging waste and increase the use of eco-friendly materials.
The regulations, which came into effect on 1 June, are intended to reduce single-use plastics and encourage the adoption of biodegradable, recyclable and reusable packaging.
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New regulations target excessive packaging
The State Post Bureau confirmed that China’s parcel volumes have been the highest in the world for 11 consecutive years, with a 21 percent increase recorded in 2024.
The agency’s earlier estimates showed that in 2022 the sector consumed almost 10 billion boxes and more than 55 billion feet of tape.
The new rules prohibit wasteful repackaging and require logistics firms to limit unnecessary wrapping, with a focus on replacing traditional plastics and cardboard with greener alternatives.
Logistics companies adopt eco-friendly solutions
Major firms are adapting operations to comply with the new standards.
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By GlobalDataJDL Express reported avoiding over one billion instances of repackaging in 2024 by shipping goods such as tissues, diapers and small electronics in their original manufacturer boxes.
ZTO Express has deployed an intelligent system across nearly 300 warehouses to determine the most efficient packaging option for each parcel. Other initiatives include redesigned cardboard boxes that use up to 25 percent less material, which companies say contributes to lower carbon emissions.
Reusable circulation boxes are also being rolled out by JDL Express, SF Express and Deppon Express to reduce the reliance on single-use packaging during inter-station transfers.
Universities encourage reuse among consumers
Efforts to make parcel delivery more sustainable are not limited to companies.
Several universities have introduced collection points where students can leave used boxes for redistribution. Zhejiang University, which received more than 8.2 million parcels in 2024, reported reusing a significant number of boxes for outbound shipments.
Similar schemes are in place at the Beijing Institute of Fashion Technology and other campuses, aiming to reduce waste through consumer participation.
Despite these developments, single-use packaging remains widespread, and environmental analysts note that further action will be required if China is to significantly reduce the impact of its fast-growing express delivery sector.
