Keystone Automotive Operations, Inc. Packaging Guidelines

Explore Keystone Automotive Packaging Guidelines for mixed POs/SKUs, carton/pallet labels, shipping sizes & weights, plus BOL and barcode rules.

Can purchase orders be mixed within a single carton?

Cartons can contain more than one purchase order but must not have more than five POs. Pack cartons with items relating to only one PO where possible. If multiple POs are in one shipment, instead of listing each PO#, use "MIXED PO's" on the carton label in the PO# field.

Can purchase orders be mixed within a single pallet?

Yes, purchase orders can be mixed within a single pallet. For such pallets, the pallet label requirements include marking the SKU as "Mixed SKU" and listing the PO number(s) contained within the pallet. If multiple PO's are on one shipment, instead of listing each PO#, use "MIXED PO's" in the PO# field. Pallet labels must be placed squarely on two sides of the pallet and outside the plastic wrap.

Can SKUs be mixed on a single pallet?

Yes, SKUs can be mixed on a single pallet. The pallet label must indicate 'Mixed SKU' if multiple SKUs are contained within the pallet. All pallet labels must also include information such as Pallet #, Bill of Lading (BOL) number, and PO numbers contained within the pallet. Labels should be placed squarely on two sides of the pallet and outside of the plastic wrap.

Can SKUs be mixed within a single carton?

Yes, SKUs can be mixed within a single carton. If SKUs are mixed, state "Mixed SKU" on the carton label instead of the Product ID#. Cartons should also contain a maximum of five POs. Additionally, cartons must meet the packaging and labeling requirements, such as having the correct Product ID#, and ensuring labels are placed correctly and are visible.

What are the max and min dimensions for shipping cartons?

The minimum dimensions for shipping cartons are 6 inches x 4 inches x 1 inch, and the maximum dimensions are 25 inches for length, width, or height, unless they contain sell-able units that measure more than 25 inches.

What are the max and min weights for shipping cartons?

The minimum weight for shipping cartons is 1 pound, and the maximum weight is 50 pounds.

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

Bills of Lading (BOL) numbers are mandatory for all shipments. The BOL is generated by the Supplier and must be given to the carrier. It must be a unique number for each shipment. Every pallet must have a pallet label that includes the Bill of Lading (BOL) number. Pallet labels must be placed squarely on two sides of the pallet, outside the plastic wrap. For small parcel shipments, every carton must have its own shipping label with a unique BOL number.

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

For carton labels:
1. Carton labels are recommended to be 4"x6".
2. Barcodes must be printed in black ink on a white background.
3. Carton labels must include the ship from/to information, PO#, logistical label barcode type and string, product ID#, and quantity.
4. No pricing information or another retailer's name on the label.
5. Carton labels must not be covered by any material.
6. SSCC barcodes are required.
7. Remove old labels if reusing cartons.

For pallet labels:
1. Every pallet must have a label with pallet number, SKU, PO number(s), BOL number, PRO, and "Mixed SKU" if applicable.
2. Labels must be placed squarely on two sides and on the outside of plastic wrap.

What are the requirements for inner packs and cases?

Inner packs should not have a SKU/UPC barcode unless it is different from the master pack's SKU/UPC. A single sellable unit can only have one scannable and unique SKU/UPC barcode. If the same SKU/UPC is on the inner or master pack, it must be covered to prevent receiving errors.

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

The requirements for carton labels include:

1. Labels should be 4"x6" with barcodes that have a 0.25" quiet zone.
2. Barcodes must be printed in black ink on white backgrounds, using GS1-128 symbology. For PO, Code39 or Code128 can be used.
3. Include "Ship From", "Ship To", PO#, Logistic Label Barcode, Product ID# in text (or "Mixed SKU"), and Quantity in 12 point font. BOL# and Carrier Name & PRO# are optional.
4. Do not include pricing info or retailer names.
5. Each small parcel carton must have its own label and PRO. Do not bundle cartons.
6. Do not cover labels with any materials like tape or plastic.

Labels must not be placed over seams or near corners and must be easily readable and scannable for 24 months.