Buyer guide for SMEs · Updated October 2026
Choosing the Right Digital Product Passport Software for SMEs
Compare DPP software for SMEs on price, ESPR readiness, eIDAS timestamp and EU DPP Registry export files ready to upload. Table, checklist and FAQ. Self-service setup, explicit pricing and ESPR readiness separate SME-fit tools from enterprise suites.
Related: ESPR Compliance · eIDAS + Blockchain · Battery Passport
Comparison table (SME lens, October 2026)
| Criteria | Hoken Pass | Other self-service SME tools | Enterprise platforms |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry price (observed) | Free (3 passports), paid from €120/year | Free tier or low monthly plan | Quote or paid pilot |
| SME self-service signup | Yes, guided templates | Usually yes | Sales-led onboarding |
| eIDAS qualified timestamp included | Yes (qualified trust service provider) | Often not stated: ask | Often not stated: ask |
| EU DPP Registry export | Yes, EU JSON/XML batch files you upload to the Registry | Varies: check the export format | Usually part of an integration project |
| Best for | SMEs needing legal-grade proof | Pilots and small catalogs | Enterprises, complex supply chains |
Categories describe typical offers on the market in October 2026. Check the current terms with each vendor before deciding.
Checklist before you buy
- Published SME pricing, no quote-wall for a pilot
- ESPR coverage for your product category and timeline (batteries 18/02/2027 first)
- The data carrier your delegated act requires, such as a QR code
- Data hosting location, retention guarantees, access control
- Qualified eIDAS timestamps for legal-grade proof
- EU DPP Registry export files (JSON/XML) ready to upload (Registry live since 20/07/2026)
Frequently asked questions
What does DPP software cost in 2026?
Self-service tools usually start with a free tier and low monthly plans; Hoken Pass starts free, with paid plans from €120/year including eIDAS + blockchain.
Enterprise platform or self-service tool for an SME?
Enterprise platforms suit complex multi-tier supply chains; Hoken Pass suits SMEs wanting guided setup and low explicit pricing.
When do we need it by?
Batteries from 18/02/2027; textiles from 2029 at the earliest; other ESPR groups follow their own delegated acts. Start data collection now.