Fleet Feet Packaging Guidelines

Discover Fleet Feet packaging FAQs on pallet stacking, PO/SKU mixing, GS1-128 labeling, and shipping specs to prevent chargebacks.

Can pallets be stacked?

Pallets should be stacked to a height of 84 inches if product characteristics allow, or 72 inches if 84 inches is not feasible. All palletized shipments should remain intact with stretch film wrapped around boxes. Pallets must be straight loaded and not side loaded.

Can purchase orders be mixed within a single carton?

Multiple purchase orders packed in a single box are not allowed, except in the case of Launch Orders where the orders must be shipped to different store locations. Each box must be clearly marked with the purchase order number to avoid a vendor chargeback.

Can purchase orders be mixed within a single pallet?

Yes, cartons for multiple purchase orders may be placed on the same pallet to reduce the profile of the shipment. However, a purchase order should be loaded in its entirety prior to adding a different PO to the same pallet.

Can SKUs be mixed on a single pallet?

Multiple SKUs can be placed on a single pallet if necessary to reduce the profile of the shipment. However, each purchase order should be loaded in its entirety before adding a different PO to the same pallet. Additionally, while cartons for multiple POs may be placed on the same pallet, it should be done in a way that allows each purchase order to be separated during the loading process, if possible.

Can SKUs be mixed within a single carton?

Cases should contain a standard quantity of a single SKU; there should not be multiple SKUs within the same case unless the product was specifically ordered as an assortment (e.g., Vendor Pack).

What are the allowed pallet types for shipping?

All pallets must meet or exceed the Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA) grade "A" or "B" pallet standards.

What are the max and min dimensions for shipping cartons?

The minimum dimension requirement for cases is a volume of 108 cubic inches with no side less than 2 inches. There is no specified maximum dimension for shipping cartons.

What are the min max weight requirements for shipping pallets?

For LTL shipments, an EPR cannot exceed 12,000 lbs for gross weight. For TL shipments, an EPR cannot exceed 44,500 lbs for gross weight.

What are the requirements for Bills of Lading when it comes to pallet (freight) or carton (parcel) shipments?

A Bill of Lading must be completed for LTL, volume, or truckload shipments. It must include itemized details such as purchase order numbers, the number of cartons per purchase order, and the total number of cartons. The shipping address from the purchase order must be accurately entered. It should also contain a description of goods, NMFC Item #, Classification and Sub, and a quote identification number for volume shipments. The total number of cartons must match between the carrier and the Bill of Lading. There is no specific mention of pallet or carton details or placement on the label.

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

1. For pallets with multiple single SKU cases, each must have a unique GS1-128 label correlating with the ASN for each case. If individual case labels are present, a pallet label is not required.
2. A single SKU pallet can have a single GS1-128 label correlating with the ASN; individual case labels are not needed if the pallet meets this criteria.
3. GS1-128 numbers must be unique and not reused.
4. Labels must be on the conveyable side of the carton, generally the longest side.
5. The SSCC-18 barcode should not be placed across seams or edges.
6. Do not cover barcodes with tape or other labels, and avoid reflective ink.
7. GS1-128 labels should use high quality, smudge-proof ink and white label stock.
8. All labels should not obstruct any product or consumer information on the packaging.

What are the requirements for inner packs and cases?

Inner packs should have pack size, visible product description, and a supplier product number or Fleet Farm item number. If the inner pack is a sellable unit, it must have a unique UPC. Cases should contain a single SKU, fit on a standard pallet, and be marked with product description, supplier part number, case quantity, burst strength and edge test certifications, and any hazardous labeling. They must have a minimum burst strength of 175 lbs and an edge crush test strength of 36 lbs. Cases are preferred to be sealed with glue or reinforced tape, and must not contain multiple SKUs unless ordered as an assortment.

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

The GS1-128 labels must be visible on the side of the carton, with the SSCC-18 barcode not placed over a seam or around any corner or edge. Labels should not cover product ID Numbers, UPC Bar Codes, retail pricing, or consumer information on the merchandise when shipping the same carton. Only non-reflective ink and label stock should be used, with label stock being white and labeling ink smudge-proof. Labels must not be covered with tape, applied over flap seams, or placed on a seam or corner. The GS1-128 label should be at least 1 1/4" away from any carton edge when placed on cartons smaller than 4 1/2" in height. No other bar codes aside from the final destination GS1-128 should be present on the carton. All GS1-128 numbers must be unique, non-repetitive except when sending a retransmission of the 856, and must incorporate GS1 identifiers. Barcodes must meet a minimum narrow element width of 19.5 mil and a maximum of 40 mil. Cartons serving as display units should not have labels covering product information.