iHerb Packaging Guidelines

Discover iHerb packaging guidelines for supplier compliance—detailed rules on separate packing lists, SKU sorting, GS1-128 labels, pallet specs, and BOL requirements.

Are there any requirements for packing lists when shipping cartons?

Each purchase order requires a separate packing list on the outside of each carton, preferably in a clear plastic pouch.

Are there any requirements for packing lists when shipping pallets?

Each PO requires a separate packing list on the outside of each carton, preferably in a clear plastic pouch.

Can purchase orders be mixed within a single carton?

No, purchase orders (POs) should not be mixed within the same carton. Items must be packed by SKU, and suppliers will be measured for vendor compliance against this requirement.

Can purchase orders be mixed within a single pallet?

Yes, purchase orders can be mixed within a single pallet. The requirements are that cartons be sorted by purchase order (PO) and that each pallet contain cartons only for one PO whenever possible. If carton counts are not sufficient to build a complete pallet, multiple orders can be combined on one pallet by placing cardboard or slip sheet dividers between POs.

Can SKUs be mixed on a single pallet?

For items with less than full pallet quantity, SKUs can be mixed on a single pallet, but items must be stacked separately. Additionally, heavier cartons should be placed on the bottom and lighter cartons on top. When shipping multiple POs on a shipment, sort cartons by PO and use cardboard/slip sheet dividers between POs if multiple orders are combined on one pallet.

Can SKUs be mixed within a single carton?

Mixing SKUs within a single carton is not allowed. Items must be packed by SKU.

What are the allowed pallet types for shipping?

Standard size 40"X48" 4-Way pallets (both Grade A and B), heat treated to ISPM-15 standard, are preferred. Plastic pallets of the same dimension are also acceptable.

What are the max and min weights for shipping cartons?

The carton's weight ranges from 0 to 80 lbs. For weights between 0-30 lbs and 31-55 lbs, a single-way (3 ply) corrugate type with a busting strength of 200 psi is recommended. For weights between 56-80 lbs, a double-way (5 ply) corrugate type with a busting strength of 275 psi is used.

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

For a Bill of Lading (BOL) concerning pallet (freight) shipments, the following requirements are specified:

1. Use VICS standards for the BOL.
2. BOL must be marked "Collect" or "Pre-paid."
3. Each trailer must have a unique consolidated BOL and a corresponding unique ASN if it’s an EDI supplier.
4. Reference the supplier's name as it appears on the original PO.
5. BOL for LTL shipments must contain: Ship To/Ship From Information, PO(s), Date, Item#, Description of Items, Packaging Type, Freight Class (Collect/Pre-Paid), Unit/Pallet Quantity, Special Instructions.
6. No handwritten BOLs are allowed.
7. Supplier must ensure all pages of the signed BOL are tendered to the driver, with the driver arriving with two copies of the BOL.

Regarding the placement and content on labels:
1. The BOL must include Ship To/Ship From information, PO(s), Date, Item#, Description of Items, Packaging Type, Freight Class, Unit/Pallet Quantity, and Special Instructions.
2. Seal# must be written on all BOL copies for verification.

Document Name: iHerb Supplier Manual
Document ID: 362ebed9-8f0c-4521-bc9a-bdeb1e4d603f

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

Carton labels must comply with GS1-128 label specifications. They should include a variety of information such as Ship to Address, Case Quantity, Supplier Name and Address, Item Number, Ship to Postal Code, Product Description, Weight, UPC Number, PO Number, and a 20 Digit SSCC Number, among others. Labels must be 4"x6" and face outward on the carton. For EDI compliance, cartons should be marked/labeled on at least one side with specific information including PO#, Item #, Product Description, Case Quantity/Total Units, Carton X of Y, Lot #, Expiration Date, Weight, and a UPC Number and Barcode, with the markings facing out on the pallet.

What are the requirements for inner packs and cases?

Inner packs must be shippable and inner cartons must have a GS-128 shipping label properly affixed. Do not mix SKUs or POs within the same carton; items must be packed by SKU.

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

GS1-128 labels must be applied to every single carton, facing outward. Only one GS-128 label is applied per carton. Labels must conform to GS1 standards and be 4"x6" in size. The placement of EAN/UPC barcode symbols is preferred on the lower right quadrant of the back, while the GS-128 barcode symbol should be on the lower right quadrant of the carton, always facing out. Additionally, each carton must have a UCC/EAN-128 barcode label including information such as ship to address, case quantity, supplier name and address, item number, ship to postal code, product description, weight, and a 20-digit SSCC number with barcode and human readable format, among others.

What is the max pallet height allowed when shipping?

Pallet height must not exceed 72 inches.