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What UIN a UIN number – Guide to obtaining one in 3 steps

Wondering what a UIN number UIN ? Find out the definition of this unique identifier, why it is essential, and how to obtain one in three steps.
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Written by
Claude Cauquil
Published on
February 27, 2026

The UIN number UIN become essential since the AGEC law came into effect. Without it, it is impossible to prove that your company is registered with an eco-organization and that it pays its eco-contributions. This guide explains whatUIN is, why it is essential, and how to obtain it quickly.

By following the three steps described below, you can ensure compliance without wasting time or leaving any gray areas in your administrative procedures.

UIN number UIN Why is it essential and how can you obtain one in three steps?

Reading time: ~9 min

       

UIN number UIN context and definition

Reminder on Extended Producer Responsibility

The principle of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) requires companies to finance the collection, sorting, reuse, and recycling of the products they place on the market. This applies in particular to packaging, paper, textiles, electrical and electronic equipment, batteries, furniture, toys, and other categories that are gradually being added. To meet these obligations, the vast majority of producers join an eco-organization (Citeo, Léko, Ecosystem, Refashion, etc.) or set up an approved individual system.

Definition of the unique identification number

Assigned by ADEME via the SYDEREP platform,UIN a company is registered for aEPR Scheme . This number has been mandatory since January 1, 2022, and must be obtained for each Scheme .

A few key points to remember

     

Your business partners or certain marketplaces may require this number to verify your compliance, making it a real regulatory key.

Why a unique identifier is essential

Proof of legal compliance

UIN compliance with your EPR obligations EPR payment of eco-contributions. Without it, you cannot easily prove your registration.

Facilitation of administrative controls

ADEME and the authorities useUIN link your declarations to your company and ensure that regulations are properly enforced.

Transparency requirement

Since 2022,UIN appear in your terms and conditions, on your contractual documents, and on your website, reinforcing trust throughout the value chain.

Limited validity and monitoring

The number is valid for one year; its annual renewal encourages companies to keep their information up to date.

Having your UIN quickly also UIN commercial blockages and limits the financial or reputational risks associated with non-compliance. To learn more about EPR, see the Extended Producer Responsibility category.

How to obtain your UIN 3 steps

Step 1: Join an eco-organization or create an individual system

Identify the EPR schemes EPR apply to your products, choose the relevant eco-organization, sign the membership agreement, then declare your sales and pay the eco-contributions. Large groups can opt for an approved individual system; in this case, the reference number of the approval decree will be used for theUIN application.

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Step 2: Send the registration information to ADEME

The eco-organization sends your administrative information to ADEME: SIREN/SIRET, company name, intra-community VAT number, sectors concerned, activity code, contact details, as well as its own identification. Check in your member area that everything is correct to avoid delays.

Step 3: Receive your UIN number

Once the registration has been validated, ADEME generatesUIN approximately 48 hours. Your eco-organization will send it to you by email or post it in your online account. You must then include it in your terms and conditions, key contractual documents, and website. If you still haven't receivedUIN, contact your eco-organization: it may simply be that they forgot to validate your registration.

UIN number format UIN special cases

Issue structure

UIN : FR + six digits (national registration number), an underscore, a Scheme code, followed by four random characters. Example: FR123456_43PLRZ.

Points to watch out for

A UIN for eachEPR Scheme .

Mandatory annual renewal at the beginning of year N via the declaration of quantities of products placed on the market during year N-1 and payment of the related eco-contributions.

For structured monitoring of your UIN, the management solutions offered by Compliancr can prove invaluable.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the risks for a company without a UIN

Lack of proof of registration, difficulties in concluding contracts, blocking on certain marketplaces, and risk of penalties during inspections.

Do I need a UIN I only sell online?

Yes. The obligation depends on placing products subject to EPR the French market, regardless of the sales channel. Marketplaces are increasingly requiring this number in order to accept you as a seller.

Do I need to request a new UIN I change eco-organization?

A new UIN be issued according to the change procedure. Notify both eco-organizations, obtain the new identifier, and update all your documents.

How do I manage multiple UIN I am enrolled in multiple programs?

Centralize your UIN an up-to-date repository; associate each number with the corresponding Scheme eco-organization. Specialized tools can automate this management and reduce the risk of error.

In summary,UIN the official identifier proving your registration in eachEPR Scheme . By joining an eco-organization, validating your data with ADEME, and then displaying your UIN all your media, you ensure your compliance and avoid numerous commercial obstacles.

To learn more about this process, check out the CompliancR guide CompliancR  the steps involved in EPR compliance and the automation solutions we offer to help you meet your obligations from start to finish.

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