HSN Packaging Guidelines

HSN Packaging Guidelines: Discover best practices for pallet stacking, carton dimensions, labeling, and mixed SKU shipping to boost efficiency.

Can pallets be stacked?

Yes, pallets can be double-stacked to utilize trailer space effectively. Requirements include ensuring the corrugate strength of cartons is sufficient to support double stacking, using a corrugated support layer between upper and lower levels, and stretch wrapping double-stacked pallets together when possible.

Can purchase orders be mixed within a single carton?

Purchase orders cannot be mixed within a single carton according to the guidelines for mixed SKU master cartons, which specify that mixed SKU master cartons cannot contain SKUs from different purchase orders.

Can purchase orders be mixed within a single pallet?

Yes, purchase orders can be mixed within a single pallet. A label plainly stating "Mixed Pallet" must be applied to the same side of the pallet as the appropriate Pallet Label. Each Purchase Order (PO) must be clearly separated and labeled as specified in the "Labeling" Section of the manual.

Can SKUs be mixed on a single pallet?

SKUs can be mixed on a single pallet if necessary, but the pallet must be labeled as a "Mixed Pallet". This label should be applied to the same side as the appropriate required pallet label.

Can SKUs be mixed within a single carton?

SKUs can be mixed within a single master carton under specific conditions: 1) A PO with less than 150 total units AND less than 6 units ordered for a specific SKU; 2) POs where the final carton for a SKU has less than the standard master carton quantity and less than 6 units per SKU. Mixed SKU cartons must be labeled as "MIXED" and include SKU and quantity details, with SKUs grouped together within the carton. SKUs from different POs cannot be mixed in the same carton.

What are the allowed pallet types for shipping?

Pallets must be 48" Long x 40" Wide stringer pallets that meet Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA) specifications. They must feature four-way entry and be made from hardwood material, free of knots and defects. Plastic pallets are not permitted.

What are the max and min dimensions for shipping cartons?

The maximum dimensions for shipping cartons are 24"L x 20"W x 20"H, and the minimum dimensions for re-shipper cartons are 9" x 6" x 1.5". All three dimensions as well as the Cubic Volume must meet the minimum requirements for specific categories mentioned in different sections.

What are the max and min weights for shipping cartons?

The maximum carton weight limit for various product types is primarily determined by carton strength using a Mullen Burst Strength and Edge Crush Test. For a single-wall corrugate carton, the weight limit can go up to 30 lbs, while for double-wall corrugate cartons it ranges up to 160 lbs. The minimum weight isn't specifically mentioned, but cartons must adhere to corresponding minimum strength standards based on their weight and dimensions.

What are the min max weight requirements for shipping pallets?

The palletized product should not exceed a maximum weight of 2,000 lbs per pallet, including the pallet weight. No minimum weight requirement is mentioned.

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

Carton labels must be placed on the smallest side panel of master cartons and cannot be on seams, corners, or covered with tape. They must not cover critical product information on self-shipper/re-shipper cartons. Pallet labels must contain the same information as master cartons and a UCC-128 Subset A barcode. They are required for specific pallet compositions, such as multiple SKUs or POs. If applicable, a "Mixed Pallet" label should be added as well. Label sizes for master cartons include 6"x4" (preferred), 8"x3", and 4"x6" layouts, ensuring no spaces or extra characters in barcodes.

What are the requirements for inner packs and cases?

Inner packs are not allowed within a master carton; each selling unit SKU must be pickable when the master carton is opened without additional unpacking. Additionally, all master cartons must contain single SKUs with the same number of selling units within the carton across all shipments.

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

Carton labels must be placed consistently throughout a shipment and should meet the following placement requirements:

1. Labels must be on the smallest side panel of the carton.
2. Labels cannot be on a seam, corner, or covered with tape.
3. Labels cannot cover product information on self-shipper/re-shipper cartons.

For GS1-128 (SSCC-18), master carton labels need to satisfy:
- Carton labels must include a serialized shipping container code (SSCC-18), which is numeric only, without special characters or spaces, and carton numbers cannot be repeated.
- All barcodes must scan as a continuous string without spaces, dashes, or extra characters.

Furthermore, barcodes must meet ANSI grade C quality with a minimum 1/4-inch quiet zone on each side. Human-readable characters must be larger than other fields on the barcode label.

What is the max pallet height allowed when shipping?

The maximum pallet height allowed when shipping is 50 inches, including the pallet height.