A DPP data carrier is a machine-readable tag, such as a QR code, Data Matrix, RFID or NFC tag, linked to the product’s unique identifier. It sits on the product where possible, or on its packaging or documents. Scanning it opens the Digital Product Passport for consumers, repairers, recyclers and authorities, each according to their access rights. Since 15 July 2026, EN 18220 has been the harmonised EU standard for data carriers.
What a DPP data carrier is
Under the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR), Regulation (EU) 2024/1781, the passport is reached by scanning a machine-readable data carrier. Where possible, the carrier sits on the product itself, so the data stay accessible across the product life. The regulation names examples such as a watermark or a quick response (QR) code, with the carrier linked to a unique product identifier that enables traceability across the supply chain. Sequencing that carrier is part of Digital Product Passport readiness work for exporters.
QR, RFID, NFC and the identifier standards
In practice the recognised carriers under discussion for DPP are QR codes, Data Matrix codes, RFID and NFC tags. Since 15 July 2026, Implementing Decision (EU) 2026/1736 has cited EN 18219 for unique identifiers and EN 18220 for data carriers as harmonised standards. A passport that follows them is presumed to meet ESPR Articles 10 and 11 on the points they cover. ESPR Annex III still lists the ISO/IEC 15459 series for carriers and identifiers.
| Carrier or identifier | Role | Standard |
|---|---|---|
| QR code | Scannable link that opens the passport | ISO/IEC 18004 QR Code symbology, not cited by the ESPR or by Decision (EU) 2026/1736 |
| RFID or NFC tag | Contactless read of the identifier | Carrier set by the delegated act for the product group; EN 18220 covers data carriers generally |
| Unique product identifier | Ties the carrier to one product | ISO/IEC 15459 series (Annex III); EN 18219 gives a presumption of conformity |
| GS1 Digital Link | Turns a GTIN into a passport web address | GS1 Digital Link standard, not cited by the ESPR or by Decision (EU) 2026/1736 |
Why the carrier is not fixed in the framework
Each product group’s delegated act chooses the carrier type and its position, so the framework itself mandates no single carrier. A carrier that follows EN 18220, cited on 15 July 2026, is presumed to meet the ESPR’s carrier rules. GS1 Digital Link turns a GS1 identifier such as the Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) into a web address. One QR code or Data Matrix can then both identify the product and open its passport. The ESPR does not name GS1 Digital Link. The EU registry asks for the unique product identifier as a web address that meets the JTC 24 standards, and Annex III covers the GTIN through ISO/IEC 15459-6. The DPP readiness guide explains how identifiers and a carrier are prepared in line with Annex III, ready for whatever each delegated act sets. The carrier type still depends on each product group’s delegated act, and the identifier should follow the Annex III standards or EN 18219, which gives a presumption of conformity.
Sources: ESPR, Regulation (EU) 2024/1781