Grove Collaborative Packaging Guidelines

Grove Collaborative Packaging Guidelines: Master pallet, carton, label, and shipping requirements with safety standards for efficient order fulfillment.

Are there any requirements for packing lists when shipping pallets?

For pallet shipments, the packing list should be enclosed in a clear poly shipping envelope and affixed to the outside of the last container or pallet in the trailer, placed in a visible location when opening the trailer. If the shipment consists of multiple Purchase Orders, each packing list should be affixed to the rearmost container or pallet of the specific Purchase Order.

Can pallets be stacked?

Pallets should not be double-stacked. To avoid damaging goods, pallets should be marked with "Do Not Double Stack".

Can purchase orders be mixed within a single carton?

Case packs must be packed uniformly with only one PO#, style number, color, size, scent, and/or pattern, as appropriate. Mixing purchase orders within a single carton is not allowed.

Can purchase orders be mixed within a single pallet?

Purchase orders cannot be mixed within a single pallet. The guidelines specify that PALLETIZED PRODUCT LOADING REQUIREMENTS state contents should have only one PO# per pallet.

Can SKUs be mixed on a single pallet?

Yes, SKUs can be mixed on a single pallet. Requirements include:
- A specification that the pallet contains mixed SKUs must be included on the pallet label.
- Group single SKUs together on the pallet.
- Use slip sheets to separate different SKUs and stabilize the pallet contents.
- Do not split quantities of the same SKU among pallets if they can fit on one pallet.
- Include the total case packs per SKU per pallet on the label for mixed pallets.
- Only one PO# should be included per pallet.

What are the allowed pallet types for shipping?

Pallets must be the standard 48" x 40" 4 stringer pallets with four-way entry. Alternative pallet materials are allowed provided they have equivalent durability and design. Grove encourages the use of re-usable pallets to reduce the carbon footprint.

What are the max and min dimensions for shipping cartons?

Maximum dimensions for cartons should not exceed 48" L x 24" W x 30" H. There are no explicit minimum dimensions mentioned.

What are the max and min weights for shipping cartons?

The outer carton weight should not exceed 50 lbs. The minimum weight is not explicitly specified.

What are the min max weight requirements for shipping pallets?

All domestic shipments over 125 lbs. must be palletized, and the total pallet weight should not exceed 2,500 lbs. (1,136 kg).

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

A Bill of Lading must accompany every shipment to Grove Fulfillment Centers. It must include: 1) Grove Purchase Order #(s), 2) Supplier name, address, phone, 3) Item description, NMFC Code, Freight Class, 4) Carrier name and carrier's shippers reference number (PRO#), 5) Trailer and seal number (Truckload shipments only), 6) Total number of cartons, 7) Total number of pallets.

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

Carton and pallet labels must be placed in a consistent manner. Carton labels are placed on the smallest side of the carton without covering product information. For pallets, labels should be on all four vertical sides. Important information on pallet labels includes supplier name and address, Grove Fulfillment Center address, purchase order number, gross weight, pallet count, case pack quantity, SKU details, and UPC labels. Labels must not be taped or wrapped around corners; use laser or direct thermal printers for durability. The format must include both the UPC number and barcode.

What are the requirements for inner packs and cases?

Inner cartons should be packed into a Master Carton to protect the product during shipping if they are less than 6 cubic inches. Additionally, all case packs must be packed uniformly with only one PO#, style number, color, size, scent, and/or pattern. Re-used corrugate is prohibited, although recycled content is acceptable. Outer carton weight must not exceed 50 lbs, and case dimensions should not exceed 48" L x 24" W x 30" H. All packing should ensure the safety of products during transit and corrugate strength should comply with specified guidelines.

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

Carton labels must be clearly visible, legible, pre-printed, and contain both human-readable information and required barcodes. The information required includes supplier name and address, Grove Fulfillment Center name and address, Grove Purchase Order number, gross weight, quantity per case pack, supplier item number or Grove SKU number, product description, country of origin, product expiration date if applicable, and lot number if applicable. A case UPC label is also needed. Labels must be placed in a consistent location, specifically on the smallest side panel, and not on corners or seams. No GS1 or UCC18 specific requirements are mentioned in the provided document. Label placement should not cover any product information.

What is the max pallet height allowed when shipping?

The contents on the pallet should not exceed 67 inches, including the pallet height.