Macy'sMacy's Packaging Guidelines
Last Updated: May 20, 2025
Common FAQs about packaging guidelines for Macy's. These answers are AI-generated from official retailer documents.
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These answers are generated by our compliance AI and have not been vetted by a human. Take caution if using this information in your packing flows.
Can pallets be stacked?
Pallets may not be double stacked. All cartons on each pallet must be within the pallet footprint with no overhang and may be stacked up to 96 inches high.
Source: Macy's Backstage Routing Guide - Feb 28, 2024
Can purchase orders be mixed within a single carton?
Yes, multiple purchase orders may be packed within the same master pack as long as each inner carton is for one store only. The packing must also meet Macy's guidelines for master packs, where "Master pack" must be noted on all sides of the master container, GS1 128 labels must be attached to each inner carton, and the EDI856 must reflect the inner cartons with one MAN-GM segment for each.
Source: Macy's 2019 Vendor Standards - Jan 1, 2019
Can purchase orders be mixed within a single pallet?
Multiple POs with the same destination DC should be combined on the same pallet to reduce total pallets shipped. Each pallet must contain cartons for one final destination DC only.
Source: Macy's Backstage Routing Guide - Jan 1, 2020
Can SKUs be mixed on a single pallet?
SKUs may be mixed on a single pallet if they are for the same destination DC (Distribution Center) to reduce total pallets shipped, as long as all merchandise is shrink-wrapped and the pallet footprint is adhered to, ensuring no overhang. Pallet weight must be shown as a separate line item on the BOL in the "Carrier Information field".
Source: Macy's Backstage Routing Guide - May 23, 2024
Can SKUs be mixed within a single carton?
SKUs or U.P.C.s can be mixed within a single carton if a shipment has less than 6 units of the same U.P.C. for the same location. The merchandise must be clearly segregated by U.P.C. using bags, light weight inserts, etc.
Source: Macy's 2023 Vendor Standards - Jan 1, 2023
What are the allowed pallet types for shipping?
Only GMA (Grocery Manufacturers Association) Grade A (#1) pallets are accepted. Grade B or Grade C pallets are not allowed.
Source: Macy's Routing Guide - Feb 17, 2023
What are the max and min dimensions for shipping cartons?
The minimum dimensions for shipping cartons are 9 inches in length and width, and 3 inches in height. The maximum dimensions are 36 inches in length, 27 inches in width, and 30 inches in height.
Source: Macy's 2019 Vendor Standards - Jan 1, 2019
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26 pre-shipment checks: requirement categories, vendor portals, the chargeback categories to watch for, and how to confirm you have Macy's's current guide.
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What are the max and min weights for shipping cartons?
Minimum weight for shipping cartons is 5 lbs (2.5 kg), and maximum weight is 50 lbs (22.5 kg).
Source: Macy's 2019 Vendor Standards - Jan 1, 2019
What are the requirements for carton or pallet labels and their placement?
Label should be placed from 1.38 inches to 5.0 inches from the bottom of the carton.
Source: Macy's 2023 Vendor Standards - Jan 1, 2023
What are the requirements for inner packs and cases?
Inner cases are tied to the use of master packs. "Master pack" must be clearly noted on all sides of the master container, and GS1 128 labels should be attached to each inner carton. Each inner carton inside a master pack must be for one store only, and the EDI856 must reflect the inner cartons with one MAN-GM segment for each inner carton.
Source: Macy's 2019 Vendor Standards - Jan 1, 2019
What are the requirements for placing labels on cartons being shipped?
Manual labels must include zones A through H, which cover specific information such as the ship-from address, recipient entity, ship-to postal code and barcode, carrier details, Macy's purchase order number, department number, and more. Labels should follow GS1 Specifications for barcodes, and any TMCL (Top Mark Carton Labels) should avoid coverage by sealing tape and be placed for all flat pack merchandise.
Source: Macy's 2023 Vendor Standards - Jan 1, 2023
What is the max pallet height allowed when shipping?
Pallets may be stacked up to 96" high when shipping to Macy's.
Source: Macy's Routing Guide - Feb 17, 2023
Free checklist
The Macy's Compliance Prep Checklist
26 checks to run before your next Macy's shipment: every requirement category in Macy's's program, the vendor portals to register on, the chargeback categories to watch for — and where to obtain Macy's's current official guide, plus how to confirm you have the latest revision.
Macy's's official compliance documents are distributed only by Macy's — this checklist maps the program so you know what to verify. Authored by RetailerHub; not affiliated with or endorsed by Macy's. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
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