Pet Supermarket Packaging Guidelines

Discover Pet Supermarket Packaging Guidelines on pallet stacking, carton weights, label placement, and shipping requirements for seamless delivery.

Can pallets be stacked?

Yes, pallets can be double-stacked. However, the total stack height should not exceed 105"/266.7 cm, and the pallet should not overhang more than 1" on any side. Pallets should not exceed 2000 lbs/900 kg.

Can purchase orders be mixed within a single pallet?

Purchase orders should not be mixed on one pallet unless specifically approved by PSI Supply Chain. If approved, POs must be separated by a slip-sheet to aid in receiving accuracy.

Can SKUs be mixed on a single pallet?

Yes, SKUs can be mixed on a single pallet. Each SKU should be loaded on its own tier/layer without mixing, unless shipping items in less than layer quantities where it's acceptable to stack different items within the same layer separated by plastic or paper sheeting, keeping like items together. Slip Sheets or identifiable markings can be used between UPCs/SKUs. Never mix expiration dates for the same SKU on a tier.

Can SKUs be mixed within a single carton?

SKU layers must be kept together on the pallet with a slip sheet in between layers to separate different SKUs. SKUs should not be mixed within the same layer on a pallet. There is no mention of mixing SKUs within a single carton, so it is advisable to keep them separate unless specified otherwise.

What are the allowed pallet types for shipping?

Pet Supermarket prefers Grade A white wood pallets and will not accept any block-built pallets. The standard size is 48"x40".

What are the max and min weights for shipping cartons?

For single wall cartons, the maximum suggested load limit is 65 lbs for 32 ECT board strength, 95 lbs for 44 ECT, and 120 lbs for 55 ECT. For double wall cartons, the maximum load limits are 80 lbs for 42 ECT, 100 lbs for 48 ECT, 120 lbs for 51 ECT, 140 lbs for 61 ECT, 160 lbs for 71 ECT, and 180 lbs for 82 ECT. The minimum edge crush test for single wall is 32 ECT for products under 65 lbs.

What are the min max weight requirements for shipping pallets?

Pallets should not exceed 2,000 lbs (900 kg).

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

The Bill of Lading (BOL) for shipments must include the following information, which must be complete and accurate at the time of shipment:
- Ship-To Address
- Bill of Lading Number
- Purchase Order Number(s)
- Supplier Name
- Supplier Number
- Number of Cartons by PO
- Number of Pallets by PO
- Weight
- Description of Merchandise
- NMFC Class Number
- Commodity Description
- Seal Number (if Trailer Load TL shipment)

The BOL should be marked as Prepaid for supplier-responsible freight charges and Collect for freight charges paid by PSI (except for POs with terms Prepaid & Add).

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

Carton marks for imports must include PO number, UPC, SKU, case quantity, number of inner cartons, and country of origin. Carton or pallet labels by non-EDI suppliers must include UPC, description, case pack, and expiration date (if applicable). Labels should be on at least one side of the carton. Pallet labels must indicate items built to it, using a 4x6 label or 8.5x11 sheet. The label must be on the top layer of the pallet and must include PO number, UPC, carton quantity, and expiration date (if applicable).

What are the requirements for inner packs and cases?

PSI requires that every item be set up with the correct quantity per Case pack and Inner Pack, as well as Case Pack Dimensions. Suppliers must notify PSI of any changes during the product's life. Inner packs should have a unique UPC/GTIN and never the same as the individual unit. An example provided is cat toys, sold individually, packed in an Inner Pack of 12, and four Inner Packs making a Case Pack of 48. Dog collars are packed loosely in a Case Pack of 30 with no Inner Pack. Case Pack Dimensions should be provided in inches to two decimal points.

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

Cartons must be labeled with the following information: purchase order number (optional for non-EDI), UPC number (mandatory), description (mandatory), case pack (mandatory), and expiration date in MM/DD/YYYY format if applicable (mandatory). EDI-compliant suppliers must use GS1-128 labels associated with their transmitted ASN. Non-EDI suppliers' labels should include the same details but may differ in format. Labels should facilitate efficient identification and handling through the supply chain.

What is the max pallet height allowed when shipping?

For a single stack single SKU, the total pallet height is 60" (152.4 cm). For a single stack multiple SKU, the total pallet height is 72" (182.88 cm). A double stack pallet should not exceed 105" (266.7 cm).