Pet Valu Packaging Guidelines

Follow Pet Valu Packaging Guidelines for clear shipping processes. Master packing lists, labels, SKUs, and weight limits for smooth logistics.

Are there any requirements for packing lists when shipping cartons?

Packing lists must include the Ship From Location, Ship To Location, Pet Valu Purchase Order Number, Product SKU, UPC, Quantity shipped per Supplier Unit of Measure, Supplier part number, product description, Product Expiration date (if applicable), and Product Lot number (if applicable). The packing list should be placed on the Lead Pallet of the Load in a clear envelope indicating "Packing List Enclosed," attached outside the shrink wrap near the top tier of the pallet.

Are there any requirements for packing lists when shipping pallets?

Packing lists should be placed on the Lead Pallet of the Load in a clear envelope, clearly indicating "Packing List Enclosed". For Trailer Load, it should be the left pallet on the tail/door opening of the trailer, facing the door. For Less than Trailer Load, it should be the 1st pallet of a multi-pallet load and marked accordingly (e.g., 1 of 3, 2 of 3, etc.). Required information on the packing list includes Ship From Location, Ship To Location, Pet Valu Purchase Order Number, Pet Valu Product SKU and UPC, Quantity shipped, Supplier part number and product description, Product Expiration date (when applicable), and Product Lot number (when applicable).

Can pallets be stacked?

Yes, pallets can be stacked. Total pallet height (single stack or double stack) should not exceed 96"/244cm.

Can purchase orders be mixed within a single pallet?

Never mix POs on one pallet unless approved by Pet Valu Supply Chain.

Can SKUs be mixed on a single pallet?

SKUs can be mixed on a single pallet under the following conditions:
- Never mix a SKU when one SKU can fill one pallet.
- Each SKU should be loaded on its own tier. Do not mix SKUs on a tier unless shipping in less than layer quantities.
- Plastic or paper sheeting may be used to separate mixed items within the same layer, but all like items must be kept together within the layer.
- Slip Sheets or identifiable markings should be used between different SKUs on a pallet.

Can SKUs be mixed within a single carton?

The guidelines do not explicitly mention mixing different SKUs within a single carton for normal shipments. However, for shippers (variety packs), different component UPCs/SKUs can be included, but they must have a master UPC/SKU and be set up as specified. Each shipper type has specific packaging requirements. Therefore, normal cartons should contain a consistent number of units of the same SKU as originally agreed.

What are the allowed pallet types for shipping?

Pet Valu prefers Grade A white wood pallets and will not accept any block-built pallets. Standards include 48"x40" standard size, stable construction free from broken or missing boards, 7 top deckboards at a minimum, 5 bottom deckboards, and 3 solid runners. Pallets must be accessible to forklifts from all 4 sides.

What are the max and min weights for shipping cartons?

The minimum edge crush test (ECT) for cartons under 65 pounds is 32 ECT, with a maximum suggested load limit of 65 lbs for a single wall carton. For heavier items, different burst and ECT ratings apply with different maximum suggested load limits: 95 lbs for 44 ECT, 120 lbs for 55 ECT in single wall; whereas, double wall cartons can support up to 180 lbs with an 82 ECT board.

What are the min max weight requirements for shipping pallets?

Pallets should not exceed 2,000 lbs/900 kg; no specific minimum weight requirement is mentioned.

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

The document does not specify requirements for labels used in pallet or parcel shipments. However, for Bills of Lading, the following information 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, and Seal Number (if TL shipment).

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

Carton and pallet labels must contain specific information to facilitate the receiving process at Pet Valu. EDI compliant suppliers must label their cartons/pallets with GS1-128 labels aligned with their ASN. Non-EDI suppliers can use non-GS1-128 labels, but these labels must include the Purchase Order #, UPC #, Description, Case Pack, and Expiration Date if applicable. Labels must be clear, with placement as follows:

- For pallets, labels that identify the items must be used on pallets built with a single or multiple UPCs. For a single UPC, one label is required, and for multiple UPCs, a comprehensive label standard must be applied. This includes details like Purchase Order #, UPC, Carton Quantity, and Expiration Date if applicable, with placement on the top layer (Tier) of the pallet.
- For carton labels, specifically Non-EDI, each label must include details such as the Purchase Order #, UPC, Description, Case Pack, and Expiration Date if applicable.

What are the requirements for inner packs and cases?

Inner packs must have their own unique UPC/GTIN, but may never have the same UPC as the individual unit. Case packs, also called master packs, are the total standard quantity of individual selling units shipped in one case. The case pack dimensions must always be provided to Pet Valu in inches, to 2 decimal points. Inner packs and case packs should be set up correctly and any changes notified to Pet Valu during the life of the product.

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

For non-EDI standard carton labels, suppliers must include Purchase Order Number, UPC, Description, Case Pack, and Expiration Date if applicable. EDI compliant suppliers must use GS1-128 labels, ensuring they apply one label per shipping unit in a portrait 4x6 format, which includes information like Serialized Shipping Container Number (SSCC Code) in SSCC-18 format. Labels should help in the efficient receiving process by being placed on each carton. Suppliers must ensure that GS1-128 labels follow GS1 standards and specifications.

What is the max pallet height allowed when shipping?

The total pallet height (single stack or double stack) should not exceed 96"/244cm.