Costco Packaging Guidelines

Can pallets be stacked?

Yes, pallets can be stacked. They must be engineered to double-stack in-bound to Costco whenever it optimizes freight efficiencies. The pallet load weight must not exceed 2500 lbs and the height must not exceed 58", including 5.5" for pallet height. For bagged products weighing over 10 lbs, specific options for unitizing are provided, such as using stretch film or corrugated shroud.

Source: Costco Wholesale Structural Packaging Specifications - Nov 1, 2017

Can purchase orders be mixed within a single carton?

It is not explicitly mentioned whether different purchase orders (POs) can be mixed within a single carton. However, for pallets, each e-commerce shipment carton and pallet must contain one SKU, and mixed pallets must be properly labeled. This implies that mixing POs may not be preferred or allowed in individual cartons.

Source: Costco Wholesale Apparel Packaging and Shipping Guidelines - No Version On Record

Can purchase orders be mixed within a single pallet?

Mixed pallets are allowed but they must have a label provided notating item numbers and quantities included on each pallet. All ecom item numbers must be visible from the outside to assist with quick receiving.

Source: Costco Wholesale Apparel Packaging and Shipping Guidelines - No Version On Record

Can SKUs be mixed on a single pallet?

Yes, SKUs can be mixed on a single pallet, but they must be clearly labeled as mixed. The SKUs should be separated from each other on the pallet and not intermixed. The pallet must have a label that notes item numbers and quantities included. Pallets must be fully cubed and wrapped with corner boards.

Source: Costco Wholesale Apparel Packaging and Shipping Guidelines - No Version On Record

Can SKUs be mixed within a single carton?

SKUs cannot be mixed within a single carton. Ecom goods must be packed one size/color per carton, and the carton should contain only one ecom item number. Mixed colors and sizes will lead to the depot refusing the PO. For pallets with mixed SKUs, a label notating the item numbers and quantities included on each pallet must be provided.

Source: Costco Wholesale Apparel Packaging and Shipping Guidelines - No Version On Record

What are the allowed pallet types for shipping?

Costco requires iGPS, PECO, or CHEP U.S. BLOCK pallets throughout North America. A GMA #1 stringer and CHEP Canada (stringer) pallets are not acceptable.

Source: Costco Wholesale Structural Packaging Specifications - Nov 1, 2017

What are the max and min weights for shipping cartons?

The maximum weight for shipping cartons cannot exceed 50 lbs if the master case is of the size to be hand lifted. There is no specific minimum weight mentioned for shipping cartons.

Source: Costco Wholesale Structural Packaging Specifications - Nov 1, 2017

What are the min max weight requirements for shipping pallets?

The maximum pallet load weight for shipping pallets is 2500 lbs. No minimum weight is specified.

Source: Costco Wholesale Structural Packaging Specifications - Nov 1, 2017

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

Imported items require specific shipping mark labels, while domestic shipments have no specific labeling requirement for GS1-128 or any other logistics labels on master cartons from Costco North America. However, if suppliers choose to use GS1-128 labels, they should follow the GS1 global standard: place labels on two adjacent sides of the load, outside of any pallet or stretch wrap.

Source: Costco Packing and Labeling Requirements - Feb 15, 2023

What is the max pallet height allowed when shipping?

Maximum pallet height is 58 inches, including 5.5 inches for pallet height.

Source: Costco Wholesale Structural Packaging Specifications - Nov 1, 2017