The Paper Store Packaging Guidelines

Explore The Paper Store packaging FAQs on packing lists, carton/pallet guidelines, labeling, and shipping specs to ensure compliant shipments.

Are there any requirements for packing lists when shipping cartons?

Packing lists must contain vendor name and address, contact number(s), location number, ship to address, purchase order number, SKU details including descriptions and quantities, total number of units, and fixture/display requirements if applicable. For ground and pack by location orders, the packing list must be on the outside of the lead box in a plastic sleeve marked 'Packing List Enclosed'. For palletized shipments, it should be in a sleeve on the outside of a carton adjacent to the pallet label on pallet #1.

Are there any requirements for packing lists when shipping pallets?

For palletized shipments, the packing list must be in a plastic sleeve marked "Packing List Enclosed" and placed on the outside of a carton adjacent to the pallet label on pallet #1. When shipping multiple POs together, each PO's packing list must be in separate sleeves adjacent to the pallet label on pallet #1.

Can pallets be stacked?

Double stacking pallets is not permitted under any circumstances.

Can purchase orders be mixed within a single carton?

Each Master Carton must contain product for only one purchase order and one location. Therefore, purchase orders cannot be mixed within a single carton.

Can purchase orders be mixed within a single pallet?

Multiple purchase orders cannot be mixed together on a single pallet unless authorized by The Paper Store Shipping Team. If consolidation is authorized, POs must be kept together, clearly partitioned, and easily identified at the time of delivery using a sheet of cardboard.

Can SKUs be mixed on a single pallet?

SKUs can be mixed on a single pallet only if more than one pallet of the same SKU has been ordered when shipping. Additionally, when allowed, the same SKU can be mixed across multiple pallets if necessary.

Can SKUs be mixed within a single carton?

Yes, SKUs can be mixed within a single carton for jewelry or when packed by location, provided that each selling unit is individually boxed or polybagged and separated by SKU. The carton must be labeled with "MIXED CARTON" or "PRODUCT & FIXTURE" if applicable.

What are the allowed pallet types for shipping?

Only standard size pallets measuring 40 inches wide x 48 inches long that are in good, reusable condition without cracks, missing stabilizing feet, or loose/missing slats are permitted.

What are the max and min dimensions for shipping cartons?

Master Cartons must not exceed 30 inches x 20 inches x 20 inches. There are no specified minimum dimensions mentioned.

What are the max and min weights for shipping cartons?

For master cartons, the maximum weight is 50 lbs. For jewelry cartons, the maximum weight is 30 lbs. There is no specified minimum weight.

What are the min max weight requirements for shipping pallets?

Each pallet may not exceed 3,000 lbs in weight. There is no minimum weight requirement specified for pallets.

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

Each Bill of Lading must include the complete shipper address & vendor name, the complete consignee address as stated on the purchase order, The Paper Store purchase order number(s), total number of pallets per purchase order number, total number of cartons per purchase order number, and special instructions such as "Pallets Non-Stackable" and "Drivers are not allowed to park overnight at The Paper Store facility." Freight terms must be clearly marked as pre-paid when shipping with Free Freight or Pre-pay & Add, and the BOL should not be accompanying a collect invoice. Additionally, delivery appointment details are needed, especially for the Distribution Center.

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

Carton labels must include the following:
- Company name (The Paper Store)
- Location Number
- Ship to address
- The Paper Store purchase order number
- Box number and the total number of boxes
- Carton Weight
- Any special handling notes
- SKU information: Item#/description, Color/size, UPC#, Total SKU quantity
- Carton box counts for inner/mixed/odd cartons.
Labels can be ink printed, thermal adhesive, or a combination if all information is present.

Pallet labels must be placed adjacent to the packing list on pallet #1. Multiple POs must have labels placed in separate sleeves adjacent to the pallet label on pallet #1.

What are the requirements for inner packs and cases?

All merchandise must be packed in master cartons, which are the outermost carton containing a single SKU in a standard quantity of units. Inner cartons within a master carton must be protected (e.g., boxed, polybagged, Styrofoam). Inner cartons should not be shipped individually. The dimensions of master cartons must not exceed 30in x 20in x 20in, and they must be securely sealed with heavy-duty tape. Every carton must contain only products for one purchase order and one location. Cartons should be packed to fully immobilize contents and should avoid using packing peanuts. Master cartons should not exceed 50lbs, and jewelry cartons should not exceed 30lbs. In case of changes in quantity for master or inner cartons, the buyer must be notified.

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

The following information must appear on all cartons shipped to The Paper Store, which includes the information that may be split between shipping label, carton label, and/or printed directly on the carton:
- Company name [The Paper Store]
- Location Number (i.e., 98 - Distribution Center, 994 - Ecommerce, 17 - Hingham, MA)
- Ship to address (as indicated on the purchase order)
- The Paper Store purchase order number
- Each box must have a box number and total number of boxes in its shipment by location (e.g., Box 1 of 3)
- Carton Weight (lbs.)
- Notation of any special handling (e.g., Fragile, Display)
- SKU information including Item# (and description), Color/Size (when applicable), UPC# (when possible), total SKU quantity, and total number of inner cartons, if applicable, with quantity within each inner carton
- All Inner, Mixed, and Odd cartons must contain at minimum: Item#/Description, Quantity per SKU, Carton box counts (e.g., 1 of 2)

Acceptable carton labeling/markings include:
- Ink printed
- Thermal adhesive label
- Both (partially split between ink printed and on a label) if all information is present.

The document doesn’t mention GS1 or UCC18 codes specifically or recommend specific placement for this label.

What is the max pallet height allowed when shipping?

Pallets must not exceed 94 inches in height.