Thrive Market Packaging Guidelines

Discover Thrive Market's packaging guidelines for shipments—covering packing lists, pallet stacking, SKU mixing, GS1 labels, and BOL requirements to streamline delivery.

Are there any requirements for packing lists when shipping cartons?

Yes, packing lists are required for all shipments, including shipping cartons. All packing lists must be attached to a pallet or shipping carton. When shipping via parcel, the packing list should be attached to carton number 1 in a stickered "Packing List Enclosed" document envelope.

Are there any requirements for packing lists when shipping pallets?

All shipments must include a packing list. The packing list must be attached to a pallet or shipping carton, preferably on the last loaded pallets in a stickered "Packing List Enclosed" document envelope. The PO number must be included on the packing list. The envelope should be placed below shrink wrap to prevent loss if re-wrapping occurs. Do not give the packing list to the carrier expecting them to deliver it with the Bill of Lading (BOL).

Can pallets be stacked?

Pallets can be stacked by double stacking two pallets or by including a slip sheet at the 60" mark to allow the cartons above this height to be removed with a clamp. The overall height should not exceed 6FT unless authorized by Thrive Market. For Lineage Logistics - Hastings, pallets cannot exceed 50 inches.

Can purchase orders be mixed within a single carton?

Purchase orders cannot be mixed within a single carton. Products must be palletized according to the associated PO and not mixed on one pallet for the fulfillment center.

Can purchase orders be mixed within a single pallet?

Multiple purchase orders cannot be mixed on a single pallet. The product must be palletized according to the associated PO, without mixing like products from multiple POs on one pallet for the FC.

Can SKUs be mixed on a single pallet?

Yes, SKUs can be mixed on a single pallet. Each mixed pallet must have at least one pallet label affixed to the outside, clearly printed (not hand-written) with the quantity of each SKU contained on the pallet and the expiration date associated with the UPC's (as applicable). Mixed SKUs must be stacked together as best as possible, and products with the least amount of cartons should be on the top of the pallet.

Can SKUs be mixed within a single carton?

Yes, SKUs can be mixed within a single carton. When shipping parcel, all mixed cartons must have a GS1-128 shipping label affixed to the outside, clearly printed with the qty of each SKU and the expiration date associated with the UPCs (if applicable). If it is not possible to list all SKUs, the callout should say "Mixed."

What are the allowed pallet types for shipping?

Shipments must be palletized on grade A, #1 four-way pallets, in good condition, that measure 48' x 40'.

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

The Bill of Lading (BOL) for both pallet (freight) and carton (parcel) shipments must include the PO number or numbers associated with the shipment. The BOL should also have an accurate piece count of the load, which must be stated clearly. It is important not to give the BOL to the carrier with the expectation they will pass it to the receiving team. The placement of the BOL is not specifically detailed, but it is implied that it should accompany the shipment in a secure manner. Continued lack of adherence may result in chargebacks for lost time. Incorrect delivery to FCs will be subject to refusal or administrative chargeback, with vendors responsible for arranging pick-up and re-delivery at their own expense.

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

Cartons or pallets must be labeled with a GS1-128 label including a Serial Shipping Container Code (SSCC) barcode unless exempt. Each pallet must have a placard (at least 8.5"x 11") on at least one side with the vendor's name, Thrive Market PO number, UPCs on the pallet, quantity of master cases for each SKU, expiration dates, and pallet number (e.g., Pallet 1 of 10). Labels should not be hand-written, and pallets should be labeled on the upper right corner. Placing the label between cases and layers of stretch wrap is recommended if the pallet is rewrapped. For parcel and floor-loaded shipments, labels should be on the longest side or on top left of center if it doesn't fit on the side. Mixed pallets with multiple UPCs should have labels clearly indicating the quantities and expiration dates.

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

Labels are required for any purchase order delivered to a Thrive Market fulfillment center. For parcel and floor loaded shipments, labels should be placed at the carton or case level, left of center on the longest side or on top if the label will not fit on the sides. Each shipping carton requires its own SSCC when shipping via parcel. The SSCC-18 barcode must be in GS1-128 format according to the GS1 standard. The shipping label is typically broken down into zones, with each zone defined by the text or barcode information included in the specified area. If shipping via parcel, the label should include the number of shipping cartons and a total count.

What is the max pallet height allowed when shipping?

Pallets should not be over 6FT total height unless authorization has been provided by Thrive Market, except for Lineage Logistics - Hastings which cannot receive pallets over 50 inches.