The direct answer
Brand, battery category and OfH participation must match. An OfH contract or PIN does not replace registration approval.
What to check
Five categories
ear lists portable, starting, electric-vehicle, industrial and light-means-of-transport batteries. Apply per brand and category and specify chemical composition. stiftung ear · battery registration application
OfH is a distinct role
A producer responsibility organisation needs ear approval. It fulfils collection and treatment obligations within its approved battery categories. stiftung ear · approval of battery OfHs
Confirm participation and complete the application
ear requires OfH participation for every category. After entering the PIN and forecast volume, the OfH must confirm participation before the application continues. stiftung ear · battery registration application
Registration must be valid now
ear published 15 January 2026 as the OfH participation deadline and warned of loss of existing registrations. Check today’s status, not only old documents. stiftung ear · approved battery OfHs
| Record | What to check | Internal record |
|---|---|---|
| Brand and category | Does the classification match the actual portfolio? | SKU mapping and technical data. |
| OfH participation | Has participation been confirmed in the process? | Contract, PIN and confirmation. |
| Registration approval | Is the correct combination registered and valid? | Approval, number and status check. |
Your action plan
The following steps are our suggested way to organise your project.
- Collect battery data per SKU, including batteries incorporated into equipment.
- Separate equipment and battery weights; state unit count and weight unit clearly.
- Map brands, categories and chemistry, then reconcile the data with the appropriate scheme provider.
- Check OfH confirmation and application completeness before release. A started entry is insufficient.
- Keep valid approval and ongoing volume reports current in one evidence folder.
Prepare your records
Brands, category, chemistry, battery weights, volume forecast, existing Batt-Reg.-Nr. DE, OfH evidence and any representation documents. Use separate fields for whole products and batteries.
Frequently asked questions
Is the OfH PIN enough to start selling?
No. The PIN and participation are parts of the process. Valid registration for the relevant brand and category is required.
Does WEEE registration cover an incorporated battery?
Assess the equipment and battery separately. A WEEE number is not battery registration approval.
Can a service provider replace the OfH?
A coordination provider is not automatically an approved OfH. SINNO coordinates required external scheme services and has no own OfH.
Is an old approval document sufficient?
Also check current registry status and confirmation of appropriate OfH participation. An old document does not prove current validity.
Sources and scope
- stiftung ear · battery registration application
- stiftung ear · approval of battery OfHs
- stiftung ear · approved battery OfHs
This guide covers the product stream described. Check other EPR streams separately; your supply chain and sales model determine the specific obligations.