HSN Packaging & Routing Guidelines

HSN Packaging Guidelines FAQ: Expert advice on pallet stacking, SKU mixing, carton specs, weight limits, and correct label placement.

Can I stack pallets?

Yes, HSN requires and permits double stacking of pallets as long as all the specified requirements (such as using a corrugated support layer between levels and proper stretch wrapping) are followed.

Can you mix multiple SKUs per carton?

Normally, master cartons must contain a single SKU. However, HSN allows mixed SKU master cartons under specific exceptions: when the purchase order has less than 150 total units and less than 6 units are ordered for any given SKU, or when the final carton for a SKU is below the standard quantity and less than 6 units per SKU (note that for SKUs with 6 or more units, a full SKU 'Partial' carton must be used). Strict labeling and packaging requirements apply.

Can you mix multiple SKUs per pallet?

Yes, but only when a single SKU is insufficient to fill an entire pallet. In such cases, you must group the SKUs together and apply a Mixed SKU Pallet Label as specified in the manual.

Can you mix POs in a single carton?

No, you cannot mix POs in a single carton. Mixed SKU master cartons cannot contain SKUs from different POs.

Can you mix POs in a single pallet?

No – under normal conditions each pallet must contain a single PO/SKU. The only exception is when a PO doesn’t have enough product to fill a pallet; in that case the Mixed Pallet Exception applies and the pallet must be labeled as “Mixed Pallet” (as shown in the Multiple PO/Mixed SKU example).

What are the max dimensions and weights for cartons?

For master cartons, the maximum dimensions and weight depend on the product category: Jewelry – 24" L x 15" W x 13" H and 40 lbs; Apparel & Accessories – 24" L x 20" W x 16" H and 50 lbs; All Other Product Types – 24" L x 20" W x 20" H and 50 lbs.

What are the min dimensions and weights for cartons?

For master cartons, the minimum dimensions vary by product type. For Jewelry, the carton must be at least 8" L x 5" W x 5" H with a maximum weight of 40 lbs. For Apparel & Accessories and All Other Product Types, the carton must be at least 12" L x 10" W x 3" H (with a cubic volume of at least 1000 in³) with a maximum weight of 50 lbs. In addition, for re‐shipper cartons the minimum size is 9" x 6" x 1.5" (no minimum weight is specified).

Where do I place the label on a carton?

For master cartons, the label must be placed on the smallest side panel of the carton – never on a seam, corner, or covered with any tape. If the carton is less than 4 inches high, a 3" high x 8" wide label must be used. Additionally, for Import PO Showroom Samples, a separate 6" x 4" label (red with bold black lettering) must be affixed above or next to the master carton label, or on an adjacent side if it does not fit on the same panel. For item (selling unit) labels (although not placed on cartons), they must be applied to the outermost packaging of the individual selling unit and must not cover key product information.

Where do I place the label on a pallet?

Pallet labels are to be affixed directly to the palletized load. For pallets with a single PO and single SKU in self-shippers (or in master cartons, when optional), no pallet label is required. However, if a pallet contains multiple SKUs (whether from a single PO or multiple POs) the label is required. In addition, if the pallet is mixed, a separate label clearly stating 'Mixed Pallet' must also be applied on the same side as the pallet label.