Walgreens Packaging Guidelines

Below you will find a common list of FAQs that our users have when it comes to packaging guidelines for Walgreens.

Are there any requirements for packing lists when shipping pallets?

Packing lists are required for every purchase order and must include the Walgreens purchase order number, distribution center number and name, number of cartons, item description (including Walgreens item code), quantities, and total units. The packing list should be inserted into a removable pouch and placed on the outside of a lead carton for each purchase order. For full trailer loads, the lead carton(s) should be the last carton(s) placed on the truck for easy access at the dock. A packing slip may also be provided at the Arrival Center.

Can pallets be stacked?

Yes, pallets can be double-stacked within a trailer to maximize cubage when the product, packaging, and structure can safely withstand the weight and shifting of product in transit. The maximum height of a pallet of product must not exceed 65 inches (including the base pallet).

Can purchase orders be mixed within a single pallet?

Yes, purchase orders can be mixed within a single pallet if the carton count is insufficient to build a complete pallet. In such cases, cardboard/slip sheet dividers must be used between different POs to clearly segregate them.

Can SKUs be mixed on a single pallet?

SKUs can be mixed on a single pallet. Pallet level UCC-128 labeling is required, regardless of the pallet type, including pallets with mixed products. An accurate Advance Ship Notice (ASN) must be transmitted a minimum of 4 hours prior to arrival, and a unique UCC-128 label is needed for the pallet.

Can SKUs be mixed within a single carton?

Mixing SKUs within a single carton is strongly discouraged. If unavoidable, each case within the master carton must have UCC-128 and HDMA labels. The master carton must be clearly marked with "Master Carton" or similar verbiage and be handled as a pallet for EDI purposes.

What are the allowed pallet types for shipping?

Walgreens requires all suppliers to use standard GMA (40" x 48") white wood pallets. CHEP, PECO, and iGPS are not acceptable as they are not standard GMA pallets.

What are the max and min dimensions for shipping cartons?

Conveyable cartons have a minimum size of 9 x 6 x 4 inches and a maximum size of 28 x 23 x 24 inches. Non-conveyable cartons have a maximum size of 48 x 40 x 46 inches.

What are the max and min weights for shipping cartons?

The minimum weight for conveyable cartons is 2 pounds and the maximum weight is 50 pounds.

What are the min max weight requirements for shipping pallets?

There are no specific minimum weight requirements defined for pallets; however, pallets must have a 2,500 pound load-bearing capability.

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

For pallet shipments, the Bill of Lading (BOL) must include: PO number, quantity of cases and pieces, quantity and type of pallets shipped, accurate commodity description, address of actual origin, freight terms agreement, and load number. The BOL must be attached to the load prior to arrival. For carton shipments, compliance documents do not specify a separate requirement for placement, but generally, similar details as for pallets are required. A packing slip for each PO should be placed in a removable pouch on the lead carton.

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

Pallet labels must include a UCC-128 label with an 18-digit SSCC-18 code. They are required on all types of pallets, whether full, mixed, or partial. For individual cases, the EAN/UCC-14 code must be present, along with product description and manufacturer stock number.

What are the requirements for inner packs and cases?

Inner packs are discouraged unless necessary to avoid product damage or if they will act as trays or displays in stores. Cases should be conveyable and adhere to specific size limits: conveyable case size for driving and liquid should be 9-28 inches in length, 6-23 inches in width, 4-24 inches in height, and weigh 2-35 pounds. Non-conveyable displays have max limits of 48 inches in length, 40 inches in width, 46 inches in height, and can weigh up to 50 pounds.

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

The requirements for placing labels on cartons are as follows:

1. Each carton must be marked with the EAN/UCC-14 Shipping Container Code and include the product description, inner case pack (if applicable), and the manufacturer's stock number. The markings can be applied directly onto the carton or by means of an affixed label.

2. A UCC-128 label is required on each case when shipping loose or non-palletized cases.

3. For expense full cases, a pink ink [GCMI 984/ PMS 239] label with black text sized 8 1/2" x 5 1/2" must be located on 2 adjacent sides of the shipping carton. The label should include item description, WIC #, department name, reset month and year, and the case barcode.

There is no specific mention of GS1 or UCC-18 in the provided documents regarding cartons.

What is the max pallet height allowed when shipping?

The maximum height of pallets, including pallet and product, must not exceed 65 inches.

Walgreens Packaging Guidelines