As we cross into the midpoint of 2026, the industrial packaging landscape is moving faster than ever. From evolving environmental legislation to fluctuating global trade policies, staying informed is critical to maintaining a resilient supply chain.
At North Coast Container (NCC), we actively monitor these shifts to ensure our customers are equipped with the high-quality products and strategic insights they need. In this month’s update, we dive into the latest developments in Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), practical advice for managing recent tariffs, and essential guidelines for maximizing the shelf life of your steel drums.
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) legislation continues to gain rapid momentum across Europe and multiple U.S. states. Because regulations vary significantly by jurisdiction and are constantly developing, navigating this landscape can feel like a moving target.
To advocate for our customers and the industry at large, NCC remains engaged at the highest international levels. Our CEO, Kyle Stavig, currently serves as Chairman of the Industrial Steel Drum Institute (ISDI) and sits on the boards of both the Industrial Packaging Alliance of North America and the International Confederation of Drum Manufacturers. This includes direct engagement in Brussels regarding the EU's strict Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).
100% Recyclable: Steel drums possess one of the highest global recycling rates, consistently tracking at over 80%.
Infrastructure Ready: A robust, global recycling infrastructure is already firmly established.
Proven Resilience: Steel packaging is inherently well-positioned to thrive in regions where mature EPR programs are already active.
We will continue to share regulatory guidance as it evolves. If you have specific compliance or sustainability questions, please reach out to us at info@northcoastcontainer.com.
Recent tariff shifts continue to impact the manufacturing sector, and we understand that supply chain predictability is a top priority for our customers. NCC is taking proactive, strategic steps to manage these challenges, insulate our production, and keep your pricing and supply as stable as possible.
The importer of record bears the ultimate legal responsibility for the correct Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) classification.
While NCC is always available to provide detailed product information to support your filing process, we highly recommend consulting your licensed customs broker or trade advisor for specific classification queries.
We remain deeply committed to transparency and doing everything within our control to provide a steady, reliable partnership.
A frequent question our technical team receives is: How long can steel drums be safely stored before or after they are filled?
Per the official guidance from the European Industrial Steel Drum Trade Association, a steel drum that is stored under cover, protected from major temperature variations, and handled responsibly should remain perfectly suitable for its intended use within the following timeframes:
Note: Handling practices, precise storage climate conditions, and the specific chemical makeup of the filled product all play a massive role in actual life expectancy.
Unsure about which internal lining is right for your specific chemical application? Our team is here to help you evaluate your product compatibility.
At NCC, continuous improvement isn't a buzzword—it’s built into our daily operational DNA. Our manufacturing and logistics teams are constantly auditing processes to improve lead times, bolster supply reliability, and elevate the overall customer experience.
Standardizing high-efficiency processes across all of our production plants.
Strengthening end-to-end supply chain visibility to better anticipate market shifts.
Investing in advanced digital tools for our customer-facing teams.
Ultimately, every single one of these investments is focused on one simple goal: making it easier, faster, and more reliable to do business with North Coast Container.
Whether you are navigating new regulatory hurdles, mapping out your Q3 supply planning, or simply seeking a more reliable packaging manufacturer, NCC is ready to step in. We are committed to being the transparent, easy-to-work-with partner you can depend on.