Family Dollar Packaging Guidelines

Below you will find a common list of FAQs that our users have when it comes to packaging guidelines for Family Dollar.

Are there any requirements for packing lists when shipping pallets?

The supplier/shipper must ensure that the last pallet loaded has a freight bill and/or packing list attached, and it must be facing the door of the trailer.

Can pallets be stacked?

Yes, pallets can be stacked. Each Distribution Center (DC) has a specific maximum pallet stack height requirement.
- For example, TXDC (9530) allows a maximum height of 68 inches for both bulk and repack cartons.
- Pallets must be stacked to their maximum load height as noted for each DC to avoid lumper fees.
- If pallets do not meet the maximum height standards, stack up or stack down fees may be applied. Proper blocking and bracing should be used to ensure merchandise is delivered without damage.

Can purchase orders be mixed within a single pallet?

Family Dollar prefers that pallets do not contain mixed expiration dates. If multiple expiration dates are represented on a full pallet, the date with the least amount of freshness remaining should be recorded. Pallet tags must have the Family Dollar Purchase Order Number, the Family Dollar SKU Number, the number of cartons per pallet, and Date of Expiration (if applicable).

Can SKUs be mixed on a single pallet?

Yes, SKUs can be mixed on a single pallet with the requirement that such pallets are marked as "MIXED PALLET." The pallet tags must still have the Family Dollar Purchase Order Number, the Family Dollar SKU Number, the number of cartons per pallet, and the Date of Expiration if applicable.

What are the allowed pallet types for shipping?

Family Dollar allows the use of grade A GMA four-way pallets, block type four-way pallets like CHEP (Blue), PECO (Red), or IGPS (4 Way Solid Plastic Pallets) for shipping.

What are the max and min dimensions for shipping cartons?

The minimum dimensions for shipping cartons are 9 inches in length, 6 inches in width, and 4 inches in height. The maximum dimensions are 42 inches in length, 26 inches in width, and 29 inches in height.

What are the max and min weights for shipping cartons?

The minimum weight for shipping cartons is 3 lbs and the maximum weight is 44 lbs.

What are the min max weight requirements for shipping pallets?

Pallets or slip-sheets shall not exceed a maximum weight of 2,500 pounds (1,136 kilograms).

What are the requirements for carton or pallet labels and their placement?

Carton and pallet labels have specific requirements:

**Carton Labels Requirements:**
1. Cartons containing liquids must have blue arrows facing up on two sides to show proper placement.
2. Fragile or breakable products must have arrows and "FRAGILE" stamped on two sides.
3. Flammable/aerosol products must be marked as per legal requirements.
4. Bar codes must not mimic Family Dollar's scan code style.
5. Seasonal products need seasonal carton markings.
6. There are two types of carton markings: Shipping Carton and Shippable Inner Carton Markings.

**Pallet Labels Requirements:**
1. Recommended for all pallets of the same product.
2. Mixed product pallets should be labeled "MIXED PALLET."
3. Adhesive labels are preferred, and must be secured to shrink/stretch-wrapped pallets.
4. Must include Family Dollar Purchase Order Number, SKU Number, cartons per pallet, and expiration date (if applicable).

What are the requirements for inner packs and cases?

Shippable Inner Packs should represent a 30-45 day supply and must be minimally wrapped in materials like cellophane or polybags. Shippable inners should be labeled like Master Cartons, including compliance with required DOT Hazmat labels if applicable. Non-shippable inners must be labeled with SKU#, Department, and Quantity but do not require protective packaging standards. Cartons with non-shippable inners do not need Seasonal Carton Labels or other decorative labels.

What are the requirements for placing labels on cartons being shipped?

Cartons, regardless of origin, must adhere to several marking requirements, including labeling for liquids with blue arrows on two sides, marking fragile products with arrows and "FRAGILE" stamps on two sides, and marking flammable/aerosol products per legal requirements. Seasonal products require seasonal carton markings. Labels like UPC barcodes should not mimic FDS Scan Code. Approval is needed for pre-printing on cartons. Color images on labels are required for non-inner cartons, and specific label sizes are 4"x6" or 3"x5" if the carton is small. Cartons with inners do not need seasonal labels or printed details labels. However, there is no mention of GS1 or UCC18 labels in the available documents.

What is the max pallet height allowed when shipping?

The max pallet height varies by distribution center; for example, INDC allows 68 inches for bulk and 45 inches for repack, while NCDC allows 63 inches for bulk and 39 inches for repack.