Sephora Packaging Guidelines

Discover Sephora packaging guidelines for cartons, pallets, and labels. Follow strict shipping, size, and mix requirements for flawless delivery.

Are there any requirements for packing lists when shipping cartons?

Yes, packing lists are required for all purchase orders and each packing list must be enclosed inside a clear sleeve and adhered to the outside of the lead carton. The packing list must contain the brand name and shipping address, Sephora Distribution Center address, Sephora PO number, Sephora SKU number(s), description of item(s) being shipped, item UPC number, and all shipping details.

Are there any requirements for packing lists when shipping pallets?

Yes, separate packing lists are required for each purchase order (PO). One carton per PO must be clearly marked "LEAD CARTON" and contain a clear and legible copy of the packing slip. The packing list must be enclosed inside a clear sleeve and adhered to the outside of the lead carton.

Can pallets be stacked?

Pallets should not be double stacked. They must be labeled "NO DOUBLE STACKING" on all four sides to prevent carriers from doing so.

Can purchase orders be mixed within a single pallet?

Purchase orders (POs) can be mixed within a single pallet, but with specific requirements:
- Pallet C can have two complete POs together.
- Pallet D can have three complete POs together.
- Mixing more than specified POs or having incomplete separation of POs is unacceptable.

Can SKUs be mixed on a single pallet?

Yes, SKUs can be mixed on a single pallet. The requirements are: 1) Maximum height for multiple SKU pallets is 72"/183cm, 2) Label the pallet "MIXED PALLET" to help Sephora DCs recognize multiple POs on a pallet, 3) Ensure heavier cartons are at the bottom with lighter on top, and 4) Cartons cannot overhang the perimeter of the pallet.

Can SKUs be mixed within a single carton?

SKUs from multiple POs cannot be mixed within a single carton. Each carton can only contain UPC/EANs from one PO.

What are the allowed pallet types for shipping?

Standard grade A wooden stringer pallets (48" x 40") in good condition are allowed. Plastic, Euro, and Block type pallets are not permitted.

What are the max and min dimensions for shipping cartons?

Minimum size: 250 mm x 250 mm x (H) 100 mm. Maximum size: 400 mm x 400 mm x (H) 250 mm.

What are the max and min weights for shipping cartons?

The maximum weight for shipping cartons is 12 kg. No minimum weight is specified for shipping cartons.

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

For cartons, Sephora requires the VICS standard GS1-128 label format with scannable barcodes. Labels must be applied to the lower-right corner of the carton (short side). Labels must include ship from, ship to, ship to post, carrier name, PO number, department number, carton count, final destination barcode, final destination text, and SSCC-18.

For pallets, labels for boxes must be visible on the pallet without prior stripping. Only one label per package should be visible, and all pallets should be wrapped with clear film to make counting easier.

What are the requirements for inner packs and cases?

Sephora does not recommend the use of inner packs except for non-sellable items. If inner packs are used for sellable items, each must include a label with the Sephora item code (if possible), item description, number of units, and Innerpack GTIN in a scannable EAN14 format. The label should hide any other visible bar codes. Each inner pack is considered an intermediate packaging for picking, grouping together units (UVCs). Cases, or "Full boxes" (PCB), group several units or inner packs of the same product and batch. Each unit must have a GTIN bar code (UPC-A/E, EAN-13/8) with GS1-128 symbology followed.

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

Sephora requires the VICS standard GS1-128 label format with scannable barcodes on all cartons. Carton labeling for shipments to US Distribution Centers should have labels applied to the lower-right corner of the carton (short side). The GS1-128 includes elements like Ship From, Ship To, Ship to Post (zip/area code), PO Number, Dept. Number, Carton Count, Final Destination Barcode, Final Destination Text, and SSCC-18. Additional carton markings include item description, SKU number, and expiry date if applicable, with prior approval for minimum label exceptions.

What is the max pallet height allowed when shipping?

Single SKU pallets have a max height of 58"/147cm, while Multiple SKU pallets have a max height of 72"/183cm. For air freight shipments, the max height is 58"/147cm.