Kroger Packaging Guidelines

Below you will find a common list of FAQs that our users have when it comes to packaging guidelines for Kroger.

Are there any requirements for packing lists when shipping cartons?

A Kroger branded packing list complying with Kroger branding guidelines should be included with every Customer PO shipment container. The packing list may contain pricing, tax, and payment information and must reflect total shipment contents, including updates for partially shipped orders. It is not specified where exactly the packing list should be placed inside the carton, but a copy of the packing list must be included in each carton for multiple shipments. The standard text required on the packing list cannot be altered and vendors must not hand write or mark on it.

Are there any requirements for packing lists when shipping pallets?

Requirements include including a Kroger branded packing list that complies with Kroger branding guidelines. The packing list must reflect total shipment contents and cannot be handwritten or altered. It is not specified where on the pallet the packing list should be placed.

Can SKUs be mixed on a single pallet?

Multiple SKUs can be placed on a single pallet, but each "unit" (lot) must be separately labeled with a GS1-128 label, and each unit (lot) must be approved by your Kroger EDI Coordinator. Each unit must have its own label even if there are multiple lots of the same item on a pallet.

Can SKUs be mixed within a single carton?

Yes, SKUs can be mixed within a single carton. The requirements are to list all styles in mixed cases and to include case-pack information by style, size breakdown, color, quantity, and lot code on the label.

What are the max and min dimensions for shipping cartons?

Minimum is 3" H x 6" W x 9" L, at least 2 lb. Maximum is 30" H x 27" W x 47" L, no more than 75 lb.

What are the max and min weights for shipping cartons?

The minimum weight for conveyable, store-ready cartons is 2 lb, and the maximum weight is 75 lb for shipments to Fred Meyer Retail Service Center, Chehalis, WA.

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

Carton or pallet labels should be at least 4 inches tall and 6 inches wide. They need to be pressure sensitive with black ink on a white background for contrast. Human readable characters must be specific sizes (e.g., 3/8 inch for Item Number and Unit Number). Barcode specs are Code 128C for numeric data such as Unit Number and SSCC18. Labels must be placed securely on the bottom left of the pallet and under any pallet wrap, directly on cases or bags. Barcodes on small boxes should be on the narrow side, lower left.

What are the requirements for inner packs and cases?

Shipping cases and inner packs must be packed and marked according to the specified requirements including proper labeling with open date code, legible barcodes, and hazard warnings if applicable. For products with an approved carton level ASN/GS1-128 label, the Fred Meyer Purchase Order number and vendor details should be included. Without the ASN/GS1-128, basic carton marks, preapproved labels, and label on every carton in a shipment must be used. Non-conveyable goods and those shipped to certain addresses have additional requirements such as marking carton numbers and ensuring visibility and scan-ability of codes as prescribed.

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

For cartons shipped to Kroger, labels should include a GS1-128 label if approved, following the specifications for print legibility, content, and placement. The GS1-128 label must be placed so that it's visible from the outside of the finished pallet. Case labels should show Case GTIN/Barcode scan-readable according to GS1 standards, Product GTIN number in human-readable format, product name, pack count and size, and code date. For Domestic Vendors shipping to Fred Meyer Retail Service Center, labels should be on the long side or top of the carton ensuring the barcode does not wrap around a corner or cross over the seam between box flaps. Without GS1-128, regular carton marks and UPC barcodes are needed. Preapproved labels must be used or created at the vendor facility. Labels must contrast well with the background and the text should be easily readable. Contact information and label approval specifics can be obtained via email for further approval details.