US Mattress Recycling Fees Compliance Guide for Temu Sellers

This article provides a detailed explanation of mattress recycling fee policies in California, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Oregon for sellers on the Temu platform. It covers the definition of recycling fees, applicable product scope, fee standards in each state, and seller compliance guidelines. The aim is to help sellers avoid risks arising from a lack of understanding of relevant regulations and ensure compliant business operations. This guide helps Temu sellers navigate the complexities of US mattress recycling laws and maintain legal compliance.

Are you selling mattresses on Temu but confused about varying recycling fees across U.S. states? Non-compliance could lead to penalties or even impact your store operations. This guide explains these crucial regulatory requirements for mattress sellers.

What Are Mattress Recycling Fees?

Several U.S. states have implemented mattress recycling programs to reduce environmental waste. These programs require sellers to collect fees from consumers for each mattress or related product sold. The fees fund state-run mattress recycling initiatives administered by the Mattress Recycling Council (MRC).

Currently, four states enforce these regulations: California, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Oregon (effective January 2025). Importantly, these are not taxes but dedicated fees supporting recycling infrastructure.

Products Subject to Recycling Fees

Sellers must accurately identify which products require fee collection:

Mattresses: Any fabric-covered sleep surface containing elastic materials (springs, foam, fiber), regardless of size or shape.
Foundations/Box Springs: Fabric-covered structures supporting mattresses, including fixed or adjustable frames.
Used/Refurbished Units: Both secondhand and refurbished mattresses/foundations qualify.
Futons: Only in California, futon mattresses (but not their frames) require fees.

State-by-State Fee Requirements

The current fee structure across implementing states:

California: $10.50 per unit
Connecticut: $11.75 per unit
Rhode Island: $20.50 per unit
Oregon: $22.50 per unit (effective January 2025)

Compliance Steps for Temu Sellers

Sellers shipping to these states must follow this compliance framework:

MRC Registration: Manufacturers, importers, distributors, and refurbishers must register with the MRC in each applicable state.
Fee Collection: Clearly itemize recycling fees during checkout, ensuring transparency about their purpose.
Monthly Reporting: Submit sales reports detailing quantities sold and fees collected, then remit payments to the MRC.

Key Considerations

Small Volume Sales: Even minimal sales into these states require full compliance with registration and fee collection.

Consumer Communication: Explain that fees support environmental initiatives to enhance acceptance. Example: "This $10.50 recycling fee funds California's mattress recycling program."

Non-Compliance Risks: Late or missed payments may trigger penalties and potential marketplace restrictions on Temu.

Conclusion

While mattress recycling fees add complexity to cross-state sales, proper understanding and systematic compliance prevent operational disruptions. Temu sellers should monitor MRC announcements for regulatory updates, as additional states may adopt similar programs.