H-E-B Packaging Guidelines

Explore H-E-B Packaging Guidelines FAQs: pallet stacking, SKU mixing, carton labeling, shipping dimensions, and Bills of Lading essentials for smooth logistics.

Can pallets be stacked?

Yes, pallets can be stacked. Each pallet should be considered an independent Logistic Unit and identified with a unique SSCC barcode. If the stacked pallets are joined using shrink-wrap, straps, or similar means, they should be considered as a single Logistic Unit with an additional SSCC assigned.

Can SKUs be mixed on a single pallet?

Yes, SKUs can be mixed on a single pallet. The requirement is to define a multi-item pallet hierarchy (S,O,T,P,I) and designate each item at the Pack and Item levels within the Tare/Pallet structure.

Can SKUs be mixed within a single carton?

No, cartons must be packed with only one ITEM CODE per carton, except in the case of an MRT or pallet-ready display.

What are the allowed pallet types for shipping?

- CHEP B1210A Wood Pallet (1200mm x 1000mm)\n- iGPS 48\" x 40\" Pallet\n- 24\" x 20\" quarter pallets\n- 48\" x 20\" half pallets

What are the max and min dimensions for shipping cartons?

Minimum dimensions for conveyable boxes: 8" length, 4" width, 2" height. Maximum dimensions: 30" length, 24" width, 22" height.

What are the max and min weights for shipping cartons?

The minimum weight for conveyable boxes is 4 lbs. The maximum weight for conveyable boxes is 40 lbs, while non-conveyable cartons should not exceed 55 lbs.

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

For pallet (freight) or carton (parcel) shipments, the complete PO number(s), PRO#, and contact information must appear on the Bill of Lading (BOL). The H-E-B PO Number and Carton Quantity must be listed individually. Do not place the PO number in the consignee address field; place it in the PO field on the BOL or within the body of the BOL. Additionally, do not place multiple trailers/containers on the BOL. If shipping against multiple POs, indicate on the BOL which items apply to which PO. For "Freight Collect" POs, the BOL should contain instructions: "Bill to H-E-B, Attention: Traffic Dept."

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

1. *Carton Labels:*
- Labels should be upright on the sides of the unit.
- One label per unit is required with a scannable GTIN barcode. A second identical label on another side is recommended.
- For cartons, the bottom of the barcode should be 32mm (1.25 inches) from the bottom and at least 19mm (0.75 inches) from any vertical edge.
- Human-readable text should be legible from several feet away.
- If both Pallet SSCC and Case UPC are needed, the SSCC should be left to the UPC for visibility.

2. *Pallet Labels:*
- Every pallet must have at least one label; recommend labeling two sides with identical data.
- Place labels on the upper right half side, 60 inches max from the base, and 2 inches from the vertical edge, squared position.
- Labels should be visible to forklift drivers, placed on the outside of shrink wrap.

What are the requirements for inner packs and cases?

Inner packs for break pack orders must be shippable, using corrugated packing materials with at least 225# for fragile shipments. Each master carton and inner pack must prevent product movement and breakage. Cases cannot mix purchase orders or department numbers and must be packed as ordered. For apparel, inner cartons should not be polybags or bundles; they must only include one item code per carton unless it's an MRT or pallet-ready display.

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

Labels should be placed on the two largest sides of the master carton. A scannable barcode is required on at least one side using GS1-128 or ITF-14 barcode formats, containing scannable GTIN-14. The label should contain product description matching the PO, H-E-B PO number, H-E-B item number, master case pack, and inner case pack. Additionally, an end panel marking is required stating the product description, H-E-B PO number, H-E-B item number, master case pack, and inner case pack. For reshippable inner cartons, mark two largest side panels with similar details. Color bands, if applicable, should be printed on all four sides with the season name within the band.

What is the max pallet height allowed when shipping?

The total height, including the pallet and cases, should not exceed 66 inches. Exceptions require approval for anything taller.