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Generic deposit-return guide for Deposit return label or markGeneric deposit-return guide

Refund and return mark

Deposit return label or mark

A deposit-return mark identifies a container covered by a refund scheme, but the exact logo, value, size and return conditions depend on the jurisdiction.

DRS / depositScheme-specificused in many countries and states
Material or subjectEligible beverage or other returnable container
Applies inScheme-specific; used in many countries and states
What the mark identifiesRefund eligibility and return route
Last source check15 August 2026

At a glance

What this symbol means

The on-pack identifier, barcode and scheme rules together determine whether a container can be returned for a deposit refund.

Use the WasteSpot Deposit Return Finder for country- and state-specific identifiers and conditions.

Recognition

How to recognise it

  • Look for the scheme name, refund value, deposit wording or official identifier.
  • Keep the barcode and label readable when the return system relies on automated recognition.

Typical applications

Where it commonly appears

  • beverage bottles and cans
  • refillable glass packaging
  • jurisdiction-specific container-refund programs

Practical decision

How to sort or dispose of it

  1. Check the scheme profile for accepted materials and sizes.
  2. Return the container to an authorised machine or manual point.
  3. Use ordinary recycling only when the container is not eligible and the local program accepts it.

Before disposal or return

  • Empty the container.
  • Do not crush it when the scheme requires its original shape.
  • Keep the label and barcode attached.

Avoid contamination

Common mistakes

Assuming every bottle or can has a deposit.

Using a deposit mark from a different country or state.

Crushing a container before machine return.

Important limitation

What it does not mean

A generic recycling symbol is not proof of deposit eligibility, and an eligible container may be rejected if it is outside the scheme or too damaged for identification.

Questions

Frequently asked questions

Does the recycling symbol prove deposit eligibility?

No. Look for the scheme-specific identifier, barcode and eligibility rules.

Can I return a container in another country?

Usually not unless the schemes explicitly interoperate.

Why did a machine reject an eligible container?

The barcode, shape, label, condition or database record may not be readable; use the operator’s help route.

Verification

Sources

RetuRO — Consumer information about Romania’s deposit-return systemOpen source ↗Singapore NEA — Beverage Container Return SchemeOpen source ↗

Sources checked 15 August 2026

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