Plow & Hearth Packaging Guidelines

Packing lists must be securely attached to the outside of the first pallet or lead carton. The list must be removable, indicate the full contents of the shipment, and include purchase order numbers. A copy should also be placed inside the lead carton marked conspicuously as containing the packing list. Additionally, an email copy must be sent to logistics@plowandhearth.com before shipping.

Source: VivaTerra Vendor Compliance Manual - Dec 2, 2019

Yes, packing lists are required and must be securely attached to the outside of the first pallet or lead carton. They must be a separate removable sheet, an official company document indicating full shipment contents, include purchase order numbers, list each item using vendor and company SKU and description. Do not include pricing information or other correspondence with the packing list. Also, place one copy inside the lead carton and mark conspicuously that it contains the packing list. Additionally, email a copy to logistics@plowandhearth.com prior to shipping.

Source: VivaTerra Vendor Compliance Manual - Dec 2, 2019

Yes, pallets can be stacked provided they are securely stacked, and cartons do not overhang the pallet length or width. Moreover, the use of slip sheets for additional stability is recommended. Fragile products that are not suitable for top stacking must be clearly marked.

Source: VivaTerra Vendor Compliance Manual - Dec 2, 2019

If a carton contains more than one product style and/or size it must be clearly labeled as a "mixed carton" and include Company SKU, UPC, and quantity per each style/size on the label.

Source: VivaTerra Vendor Compliance Manual - Dec 2, 2019

Multiple purchase orders should NOT be mixed on a pallet without prior approval. If authorization is obtained, mixed pallets and cases must be clearly marked. Cases of the same purchase order should be on the same level of the pallet.

Source: VivaTerra Vendor Compliance Manual - Dec 2, 2019

SKUs can be mixed on a single pallet only with prior approval. If authorization is obtained, mixed pallets and cases must be clearly marked.

Source: VivaTerra Vendor Compliance Manual - Dec 2, 2019

Yes, SKUs can be mixed within a single carton. Such cartons must be clearly labeled as "mixed carton" and include Company SKU, UPC, and quantity per each style/size on the master carton label.

Source: VivaTerra Vendor Compliance Manual - Dec 2, 2019

Plastic or Euro sized pallets may NOT be used. International shipments may use Euro-sized pallets if pre-approved.

Source: VivaTerra Vendor Compliance Manual - Dec 2, 2019

Any carton weighing over 70 lbs must have a heavy package sticker affixed. There are no specific minimum weight requirements for cartons mentioned.

Source: VivaTerra Vendor Compliance Manual - Dec 2, 2019

All purchase orders must be shipped F.O.B. origin, freight collect, unless authorized otherwise in writing. The Bill of Lading (BOL) must include the purchase order number, total number of cartons, and total number of pallets. Multiple purchase orders should be combined on one BOL when shipping to the same address and each purchase order number must be listed on the BOL. For shipments of two or more purchase orders within a five-day period, they must be combined into one shipment unless otherwise authorized. The 3rd Party Billing address should be referenced on the BOL and freight, invoices, or other correspondence should not be sent to that address.

Source: VivaTerra Vendor Compliance Manual - Dec 2, 2019

For master carton labels, place them on the smallest, flattest surface of the carton, ensuring they are smooth without ridges or wrinkles. Labels must include the UPC barcode, Company SKU, product description, total quantity, purchase order number, and other relevant details like weight and country of origin. For pallets, labels should be on all four sides, showing consignee name, address, and purchase order number. Include a colorful sheet on each side stating "DO NOT BREAK DOWN SKID" and other relevant instructions.

Source: VivaTerra Vendor Compliance Manual - Dec 2, 2019

Inner boxes not used as shipper boxes must be at minimum 3-ply corrugate. Shipper boxes used for either inner cartons or for master cartons must be constructed using double-wall / 5-ply corrugate. If the total weight of shipper box exceeds 70 lbs, it must be constructed using triple-wall / 7-ply corrugate.

Source: VivaTerra Vendor Compliance Manual - Dec 2, 2019

All master cartons must have printer-generated labels placed on the lower left-hand side of the smallest, flattest surface. The labels must include UPC barcode, complete SKU and product description, total quantity, purchase order number, "PARTIAL" if needed, distribution center address, country of origin for international shipments, gross weight specifying lbs or kgs, and must indicate if mixed carton for multiple product styles/sizes. There is no specific mention of GS1 or UCC18 labels.

Source: VivaTerra Vendor Compliance Manual - Dec 2, 2019

The maximum pallet height allowed is 50" (1.27 meters).

Source: VivaTerra Vendor Compliance Manual - Dec 2, 2019