NAPA Packaging Guidelines

Explore NAPA Packaging Guidelines: FAQs on pallet stacking (max 72"), mixed SKUs/POs, label placement, and shipping weight limits for smooth distribution.

Can pallets be stacked?

Yes, pallets can be stacked. The maximum height for stacked pallets when shipping to NAPA distribution centers is 72" unless exceptions are prearranged for certain DCs. Pallets must be sized appropriately to prevent product damage, and they may be double stacked if weight and height allow without risking product integrity. Each pallet requires a tare label regardless of stacking.

Can purchase orders be mixed within a single pallet?

Yes, mixed PO pallets are permitted if participating in the ship or backorder program. Each pallet label must list a single PO number, even for mixed PO pallets.

Can SKUs be mixed on a single pallet?

Yes, SKUs can be mixed on a single pallet. Freight should be layered by item and not spread throughout the pallet.

Can SKUs be mixed within a single carton?

Yes, a unique GTIN must be assigned when a case contains more than one selling unit of multiple different UPCs. A new item number is required for this case.

What are the allowed pallet types for shipping?

Pallets can be made of solid wood, engineered wood (plywood or OSB), or plastic. Plastic pallets must be made of virgin material, specifically high density polyethylene (HDPE) or polypropylene (PP).

What are the max and min weights for shipping cartons?

The minimum rating for a Box Maker's Certificate (BMC) is 200 lbs per square inch. The gross weight limit for a completely packaged box must align with the limits published by the National Motor Freight Industry, for full truckload and less than truckload carriers.

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

Bills of Lading for pallet (freight) shipments must be printed (not handwritten) and include the following: shipping location with complete shipper and phone numbers, freight class and NMFC code, shipment pickup and delivery dates, lading count (typically the pallet count), destination address, total shipment weight, PO numbers, supplier and carrier acknowledgment/signature, product description, NAPA shipment receipt acknowledgment & exception notation, and carrier pro number (if LTL). Placement is not specifically mentioned, but a physical copy must be included. Alternative electronic methods are acceptable if pre-approved and requirements are met.

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

Carton labels must be placed on a flat surface such that the barcode remains intact when the carton is opened. They can be on the top or side of the carton, positioned square to the box angles. Avoid placing them over the carton opening seam. Pallet labels require a single shipping label with a unique serialized tare number. An SSCC-18 barcode is preferred and must be scannable with RF equipment. Labels should be at least 3/4" from the edge and 1.25" from the bottom. The pallet label must include supplier and destination addresses, pallet number, PO number, and BOL number among others. Labels on pallets should be positioned square on the front to allow scanning without dismounting the lift equipment. Labels can also be placed on the top of half-height pallets.

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

Carton labels must be placed on a flat surface such that the barcode remains intact when the carton is opened. Labels may be placed on the top or the side of the carton, square to box angles. Avoid positioning tracking or GS1-128 labels over the carton opening seam. Case barcode (ITF-14, UPC A/E) must face outward if cases are unitized. General case markings and shipping labels are separate; markings are specific to the case, while shipping labels are specific to the PO.

What is the max pallet height allowed when shipping?

The maximum pallet height allowed when shipping to NAPA Distribution Centers is 72 inches, with exceptions for specific Upstream DCs (Rayloc) where the stacked product height including pallet shall not exceed 42 inches.