Hot Topic Packaging Guidelines

Discover Hot Topic packaging guidelines on safe pallet stacking, approved carton dimensions, purchase order rules, and precise labelling for flawless shipping.

Can pallets be stacked?

Pallets cannot be double stacked. Vendors must ensure pallets remain upright and do not tilt with risk of falling while in transit. Pallet height limitations are six (6) feet for RDC and eight (8) feet for TNDC warehouses.

Can purchase orders be mixed within a single carton?

Cases are to contain merchandise from one PO only. Mixing purchase orders within a single carton is not allowed.

Can SKUs be mixed on a single pallet?

SKUs can be mixed on a single pallet, but specific sorting is required by Distribution Center (RDC or TNDC), pre-packs, web and store POs. Each PO must be separated by slip sheets or cardboard. Additionally, do not separate your shipment onto multiple pallets when not necessary, and ensure maximum pallet heights are utilized to avoid chargebacks or additional freight costs. Pallets should not be stacked higher than six feet for RDC and eight feet for TNDC warehouses. Overhanging cartons on pallets should be avoided to minimize damage and the risk of them tilting or falling. All pallets must have a placard on all four sides, listing all POs contained on that pallet and the brand the POs are for, without covering any EEM labels.

Can SKUs be mixed within a single carton?

Yes, SKUs can be mixed within a single carton under necessary circumstances for a Hot Topic purchase order. The requirements include creating separate LPNs (carton labels) for each SKU in EEM, separating SKUs by polybag with the LPN/carton label inside the polybag, and affixing a placard indicating the PO number and 'Multi SKU' on the outside of the carton with specific formatting and placement instructions.

What are the allowed pallet types for shipping?

Vendors are required to use four-way stringer pallets.

What are the max and min dimensions for shipping cartons?

Maximum dimensions: 27 inch (69 cm) x 20 inch (50 cm) x 12 inch (30 cm). Minimum dimensions: 12 inch (30 cm) x 12 inch (30 cm) x 6 inch (12 cm).

What are the max and min weights for shipping cartons?

The minimum and maximum weights for shipping cartons are:
- Minimum weight: 3 lbs (approximately 1 kg)
- Maximum weight: 40 lbs (approximately 18 kg)

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

Either a Bill of Lading or an Air Bill must accompany any shipment other than FedEx Ground. Multiple POs shipped to the same location on a given day must be listed on one Bill of Lading. Required information includes number of cartons, Purchase Order number, department number, and weight. Any shipment lacking required information on the Bill of Lading may be refused and returned at the Vendor's expense.

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

Carton labels must be self-adhesive labels, 4x5 inches for laser printers or 4x6 inches for zebra/label printers, specifically Avery label 5353 or equivalent. Labels should not be printed on regular paper or applied with tape; doing so could result in chargebacks. The labels must be printed with 100% quality and should not be covered with tape. No barcode other than the TPM/EEM label should be on the length/short end of the carton, and any additional barcodes must be covered. TPM labels should be placed securely in the top right-hand corner of the length side of the carton, while EEM labels should be placed at the bottom right corner of the short end, 2 inches from the bottom and side. For equal length and width cartons, apply labels according to side opening orientation rules.

What are the requirements for inner packs and cases?

For inner packs, items should be packed as one as stated on the PO in either polybags or inner cartons. Face masks should always be individually polybagged. For cases, the contents must match the quantity on the EEM/carton label, contain merchandise from one PO only, with price ticket barcodes facing outward. Additionally, pre-pack SKU labels should be applied appropriately as instructed.

What is the max pallet height allowed when shipping?

- RDC: six (6) feet
- TNDC: eight (8) feet