1 Update September 2009 Walmart.com Supplier Packaging and Labeling Manual
2 Update September 2009
1. Introduction……………………………………………………………………… 3
2. General Statements……………………………………………………………… 3
3. Package Testing…………………………………………………………………. 4
4. Environmental Sustainability…………………………………………………….5
4.1. Principles…………………………………………………………………5
4.2. Materials List……………………………………………………………. 6
5. General Packaging Requirements………………………………………………..7
5.1. Corrugated (paper fiber board) Specifications for all Shipments…....….. 7
5.2. Additional Standards for Shipments to WM.com Fulfillment Centers...... 7
6. Hardlines Specific Packaging Requirements……………………………………. 9
6.1. Tabletops (Dishware)……………………………………………………. 9
6.2. Furniture incl. Baby and Outdoor Furniture…………………………….. 9
6.3. Large Electronics (Computers, TV‘s and Monitors)……………………. 10
7. Softlines Specific Packaging Requirements…………………………………….. 11
7.1. General Requirements……………………………………………………11
7.2. Apparel Packaging Requirements……………………………………….. 11
7.3. Blankets, Comforters and Pillows………………………………………..12
7.4. Rugs/Mats and Mattresses………………………………………………. 13
8. UPC and Labeling Requirements………………………………………………... 13
8.1. UPC Requirements……………………………………………………….13
8.2. UPC Label Placement …………………………………………………... 13
8.3. UPC Sizing Standards…………………………………………………… 14
8.4. Carton Marking Requirements…………………………………………...15
8.5. Shipping Label Requirements…………………………………………… 17
8.6. SCC-14 Interleaved 2 of 5 Bar Code……………………………………..19
8.7. Apparel specific UPC and Labeling Requirements……………………... 22
8.8. Shipping Label Placement………………………………………………..22
9. Proper Pallet Loading Pattern…………………………………………………….23
10. Schedule of Re-work Fees……………………………………………………....24
11. Contacts……………………………………………………………………..…..25
12. Glossary of Terms ………………………………………….………………... 25
3 Update September 2009
1. Introduction
Founded in January 2000, Walmart.com is a wholly owned subsidiary of Wal-Mart
Stores, Inc. Where Walmart has made a science of supply chain technology and
efficiency, Walmart.com seeks to replicate that success in the realm of Internet commerce
and fulfillment. Traditionally, products were transported from manufacturer or vendor to
distribution center and to retail center via truckload and less-than-truckload carriers.
Walmart.com‘s direct-to-consumer channel requires Walmart.com suppliers and our
Drop-Ship Vendors (DSV) to ship individual units, often in the small parcel environment.
Therefore, the packaging requirements of our direct-to-consumer channel are more
vigorous, with both internal and external packaging enhancements often necessary.
This manual is designed to assist you in successfully packaging for the direct-to-
consumer channel.
2. General Statements
√ Package design and material selection are the responsibility of the supplier.
√ Packaging methods must conform to the minimum standards contained in this
document.
√ Any individual selling unit must be packed in a way that the packaging will withstand
the rigors of direct-to-consumer transportation.
√ Any deviation from the guidelines contained in this manual must be communicated in
detail to the appropriate Merchant and Merchandise Logistics Manager (MLM) and
written approval must be obtained before implementation.
√ A sample shipment may be required to test and prove that the packaging withstands
delivery conditions and to allow Walmart.com to review the packaging.
4 Update September 2009
3. Package Testing
Walmart.com may require that products pass an ISTA (International Safe Transit
Association) transit test in their own packaging to ensure that products will withstand the
rigors of small parcel or LTL transportation and arrive to the Walmart.com customer in
perfect condition. We therefore recommend that all of our suppliers have their product
proactively transit tested.
The ISTA 3A test procedure is a general simulation test for individual packaged products
shipped through a parcel delivery system and covers products weighing 150 lbs. (68 kg)
or less when prepared for shipment. For testing of products weighing more than 150 lbs.,
the ISTA 2B test is required.
Though it is the supplier‘s responsibility that the product be tested at a 3rd
party,
independent ISTA Certified Laboratory, we have negotiated discounted rates with two
test labs that are available to our suppliers. Please contact [email protected] for transit
test information.
As to the definition of damage to products in their packaging, Walmart.com does not
allow ANY damages, i.e. broken parts, scratched or dented surfaces. The level of package
degradation should be kept to a minimum. Though we understand that package
degradation is unavoidable, the objective is to present the customer with an intact
package that does not show any major rips or tears in the corrugate.
For more information on transit test procedures, test labs and rates, please contact your
Merchandise Logistics Manager at [email protected].
For general information around transit testing, please visit the International Safe Transit
Association website: http://www.ista.org/
5 Update September 2009
4. Environmental Sustainability
As Wal-Mart, Walmart.com and Sam’s Club continue to focus on being more
environmentally sustainable we need to focus on packaging that is good for the
environment and good for business.
Product and package quality does not need to be compromised in order to deliver a
environmentally sustainable package.
4.1. Principles
Use the following principles to achieve a better package design in order to achieve best
results for Walmart.com customers and the Environment.
Reduce Packaging
� “Right-Size” packages and optimize material strength.
� Design package appropriately for contents, merchandise requirements and
transportation needs.
Reuse Packaging � Pallets - Use of Pooled Pallets ex. CHEP, IFCO, iGPS, PECO etc. (all pallets must
meet or exceed GMA Grade A specifications)
� RPC - Reusable Plastic Containers
Renew(able) Packaging � Use materials made of renewable resources.
� Select materials that are biodegradable or compostable.
Recycle(able) Packaging � Use materials made of highest recycled content possible without compromising
quality.
� Use Post Consumer Recycled Material (PCR) where appropriate.
� Components should be chosen based on recycle-ability post use.
� Build packaging out of single material components for easy sorting and recycling.
6 Update September 2009
4.2. Materials List
This page contains a list of preferred materials and material compositions for use in
packaging design at Walmart, Walmart.com and Sam’s Club. This list is not all
encompassing or exclusive.
Wood / Paper Fiber
Preferred Materials:
√ Highest recycled content without compromising required strength and quality.
√ Virgin-wood fibers certified by an independent, third-party sustainable forestry
organization.
√ Corrugated constructed with wax replacements materials.
Less Desirable Materials:
√ No ancient forest fibers.
√ No heavy metals or other toxins.
√ Reduce the usage of hazardous chlorine compounds.
√ Do Not Use Wax Impregnated Medium, Curtain Coated Corrugated, Cascade Boxes
Plastics
Preferred Materials:
√ High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
√ Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE)
√ Plyethylene Teraphthalate (PET)
√ Recycled Polyethylene Teraphthalate (RPET)
√ Ethylene Vinyl Acette (EVA)
√ Polypropylene (PP)
√ Polylactic Acid (PLA)
Less Desirable Materials:
√ Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
√ Polyurethanes (PU)
√ Polystyrene (PS)
√ Acylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)
√ Polycarbonates (PC)
√ Acrylic
7 Update September 2009
5. General Packaging Requirements
To help ensure that your packages get to both Walmart.com Fulfillment Centers and our
customers in good condition, Walmart.com has developed the following Corrugated
(paper fiber board) Specifications to help you maximize your product packing process
and minimize damages. The corrugated box you choose must be able to withstand the
shipping cycle and still retain its protective qualities.
5.1. Corrugated (paper fiber board) Specifications for all Shipments
√ Reused corrugated material is not accepted. Recycled corrugated material is
acceptable.
√ Both single-wall and double-wall corrugated containers are acceptable as long as the
strength requirements defined in the tables provided on page 8 are met.
√ It is recommended that domestically-produced cartons have a box maker‘s certificate
(BMC) stamp on the bottom flap of the carton. Please see page 8 for BMC example.
√ Corrugated packaging shall be of adequate strength to support multiple stacking of
pallet loads.
√ A Bursting Test Strength appropriate for the product weight (see table on page 8)
with a minimum rating of 200 lbs per square inch is strongly recommended
(displayed on the BMC stamp for domestically-produced cartons).
√ All cartons must have an equal product weight distribution.
√ All carton and packaging surfaces must be flat and strong enough to support the
package weight without distortion, deflection or bending.
√ Cartons must be sealed with 3“ wide polytape with a minimum thickness of 1.5 mil.
√ Display of the vendor name on the tape is recommended to prevent pilferage.
√ It is suggested that exterior strapping of any kind be avoided as it is often used as a
handle and causes tearing of the corrugate.
√ Cartons may be shrink-wrapped as long as the mil is thick enough to hold up to
normal Distribution Center (DC) processing (80-gauge, 15-inch).
√ Please do not put labels on the shrink wrap. Secure all labels on the inside of the
shrink wrap.
√ Generally, cartons shall not include handles or openings. In the event that the
Walmart.com buyer approves such features, the opening must be strong enough to be
used as a handle or clearly marked with “Do Not Use As Handle”.
√ No product should be packed in an open-face or display box.
5.2. Additional Standards for Shipments to Walmart.com Fulfillment Centers All products shipped to a Walmart.com Fulfillment Center must arrive in a warehouse
pack carton (master carton) capable of withstanding the rigors of inbound transportation
and conveyance as an individual unit. In the event of product designated as “ship-alone”
or “ship-as-is”, the warehouse pack carton must be capable of serving as the outbound
carton material when shipped to the customer.
Supplier pack carton dimensions & weight as well as individual shipping dimensions &
weight of the sell-unit must be submitted to the Walmart.com buyer prior to initial
shipment to a Walmart.com Fulfillment Center.
8 Update September 2009
We strongly recommend the following Box Strength Guidelines for single-wall and
double-wall corrugated boxes to help ensure sufficient protection for your shipments:
Max. Weight of Box &
Contents (lbs)
Min. Burst Strength
(lbs. per sq. in.)
Min. Edge Crush
Strength (lbs. Per in. width)
Size Limit (inches) (length + width +
depth)
Single-wall Corrugated Box
0 – 20 200 32 75
21 – 35 200 40 75
36 – 50 250 44 85
51 – 65 275 55 95
66 – 80 350 N/A 105
Max. Weight of Box &
Contents (lbs)
Min. Burst Strength
(lbs. per sq. in.)
Min. Edge Crush
Strength (lbs. Per in. width)
Size Limit (inches) (length + width +
depth)
Double-wall Corrugated Box
0 – 80 200 42 85
81 – 100 275 48 95
101 – 120 350 51 105
121 – 140 400 61 110
141 – 160 500 71 115
161 – 180 600 82 120
Gross Weight Limit:
Specifies the maximum weight the
completely packaged box can contain. This
weight limit is published and recognized by
the national motor freight industry, and is
tailored to full truckload and less-than-
truckload carriers.
9 Update September 2009
6. Hardlines Specific Packaging Requirements
Certain product types require additional packaging standards to ensure a damage-free
transit. The following section details product specific guidelines.
6.1. Tabletop (Dishware)
√ Handling warnings such as “No Clamp”, “Handle With Care”, “Fragile”, and stacking
limits shall be printed on the carton.
√ Arrows indicating stacking and handling directions.
√ The unit box containing the individual dishware should be constructed with a burst
strength that allows a five foot stack height in the warehouse.
√ Individual components of the dishware must be packed in a manner to prevent
movement during transit.
√ Corrugated material, bubble wrap or other protective material should be used as
“separators” to ensure individual pieces do not rub or make contact against each
other.
√ Cups must be positioned in such way that the handle is adequately protected against
breakage.
6.2. Furniture incl. Baby and Outdoor Furniture
√ Arrows indicating stacking and handling directions shall be printed on the carton.
√ Handling Warning such as “Team Lift” shall be printed on the carton.
√ If the product is packed in multiple cartons, each carton must indicate “Carton 1 of
2”, “Carton 2 of 2” and so forth.
√ Interior carton must be reinforced with additional corrugate or foamed Polyethylene.
√ The carton should be constructed with a burst strength that allows a five foot stack
height in the warehouse.
√ Poly-ethane foam sheeting shall be used to blanket the individual components and
protect the finish.
√ Poly-ethane foam sheeting must be a minimum 1/16“ thick.
√ To avoid heavy abrasion of the carton edges we strongly recommend applying edge
protectors to the carton (as shown in pictures A and B below)
√ Items such as glass top tables need special protection. Foam or extra corrugate sheets
must be added to prevent any damage.
Picture A Picture B
10 Update September 2009
6.3. Large Electronics (Computers, TV‘s and Monitors)
Due to their very fragile nature, large Electronics such as Computers, TV‘s and Monitors
require special packaging to ensure safe transit through the Ground network.
√ We strongly recommend to double-box all large Electronics by placing the
manufacturer‘s box in another, slightly larger carton.
√ Place a paperboard frame inside the outer carton to suspend the manufacturer‘s box in
the middle of the outer carton (as shown in picture C)
√ Inside the manufacturer‘s carton we suggest using customized molds to secure the
product (as shown in pictures D and E). Rather than using Styrofoam for the
customized molds we recommend “foamed plastic” (also shown in pictures D and E)
√ The entire item should be wrapped in either thick poly-ethane sheets or bubble wrap.
√ Additional protection such as foam sheets is required for Monitors and TV screens.
√ Arrows indicating stacking and handling directions shall be printed on the carton.
Picture C
Picture D Picture E
11 Update September 2009
7. Softlines Specific Packaging Requirements
The following section outlines Softlines specific Packaging Requirements. Please make
sure to follow these requirements carefully.
7.1. General Requirements
• All merchandise (excluding shoes) must be pre-folded.
• No hangers, pins or paper should be used.
• All merchandise (excluding shoes) requires hang tags.
• Merchandise must be packed as one size/one color per carton. Assorted cartons can
NOT be received and may result in a chargeback.
• Full carton weight must be less than or equal to 70 lbs. V Supplier Pack carton
dimensions should be less than or equal 29.75“x15.75“x11.75“.
• Warehouse Pack carton (Master Carton) dimensions should be less than or equal
30“x26“x26“.
• Cartons should be palletized on standard 48“x40“ pallets if quantities permit.
• Like UPC‘s should be grouped together on LTL shipments. The Bill of Lading should
indicate “Do NOT break down“ on LTL shipments.
• Carton pack quantities must be the same for all cartons shipped of each UPC and
should be as specified by the Merchant in the commitment sheet.
• Subclass for all Walmart.com items is 00
7.2. Apparel Packaging Requirements:
o All Merchandise excluding shoes must be bagged as individual selling units in sealed,
clear polybags. Polybag Packs will always be ONE. Do not put more than one selling
unit in a single polybag.
o Shoes - each pair must be placed in both a shoe box AND an outer carton.
o Polybags or shoe box and outer carton must contain a UPC barcode label on the
exterior of the polybag or shoe box and outer carton.
o The front of the polybag should be plain with a UPC sticker at the bottom right (see
Inner Packaging Example on the following page).
o The below bilingual warning should be printed on the backside of the polybag in
black letters:
THIS BAG IS NOT A TOY WARNING: To avoid danger of suffocation, keep
away from babies and children, do not use in cribs, beds, carriages,
or playpens.
ESTA BOLSA NO ES UN JUGUETE ADVISO: Para peligro de asfixia,
mantener fuera del alcance de los ninos y de los babes.
No usar en cunas, camas, carreolas o corrales.
o No WPM or WPMC wording on the hang tag.
o The total length and width of the polybag determines the font size for the warning.
12 Update September 2009
Apparel - Inner Packaging Example
7.3. Blankets, Comforters and Pillows
√ All blankets, comforters or pillows must be individually polybagged.
√ The front of the polybag should be plain with a UPC sticker at the bottom right.
√ The below bilingual warning should be printed on the backside of the polybag in
black letters:
THIS BAG IS NOT A TOY
WARNING: To avoid danger of suffocation, keep away from babies and children,
do not use in cribs, beds, carriages,or playpens.
ESTA BOLS NO ES UN JUGUETE
ADVISO: Para peligro de asfixia, mantener fuera del alcance de los ninos y de los
babes. No usar en cunas, camas, carreolas o corrales.
All Comforters must be polybagged and cartonized. Please make sure the carton is
appropriately sized. The carton should not warp or lose its shape.
13 Update September 2009
7.4. Rugs/Mats and Mattresses
� Rugs and Mats need to be rolled and bagged as individual selling units.
� The polybag should be at least 3 mil. thick, be completely sealed and include a UPC
label on the outside of the polybag..
� White or clear polybags are acceptable.
8. UPC and Labeling Requirements
The following section outlines Walmart.com specific UPC and Labeling requirements. If
you have any questions regarding the Walmart.com Labeling requirements please contact
8.1. UPC Requirements
For Walmart.com orders, it is required to place a UPC label on all shipping cases. Failure
to place a UPC label could result in re-labeling by the Walmart.com Fulfillment Center
and charge backs to the Supplier. For Walmart.com assortments please place the UPC
label of the parent assortment on the shipping case (not the individual item UPC‘s).
For further information please refer to Retail Link/Site Map/Wal-Mart Supplier
Information Manuals/UPC Requirements
8.2. UPC Label Placement
• Apply the UPC label to the longest side of the shipping case.
• For direct Imports, please place the UPC label on the same side as the shipping case
barcode label.
• DO NOT place any labels on the bottom of the shipping case.
14 Update September 2009
8.3. UPC Sizing Standards
Please follow the following standards for maximum and minimum sizes for the actual
UPC barcode on the label. UPC sizes are specified as —magnifications“, which refer to
the size of the actual barcode and NOT the label size. We have no specified size for the
label.
The largest acceptable barcode size is the 200% magnification (please see picture below),
which is 76.2 mm wide (3“) and 50.8 mm high (2“). The minimum size is 80%
magnification, which is 30.48 mm wide (1 3/16“) and 15.86 mm high (5/8“).
For more information about UPC Standards please refer the Retail Link/Site Map/ Wal-
Mart Supplier Information Manuals/UPC Requirements.
15 Update September 2009
8.4. Carton Marking Requirements
Because of the variety of Warehouse Management Systems utilized by Walmart and 3rd
Party Warehouse services for receiving Walmart.com freight, Suppliers are required to
have the following carton marking information on all standard shipping cartons:
• Product Identification Information
• Shipping Label
• UPC (clearly identifiable)
• SCC-14 Bar Code (required for shipping into all Walmart Distribution Centers)
Standard shipping cartons are full cases containing one or more retail selling units
(“eaches”). Non-standard applies to pre-assembled displays, non conveyable
merchandise and specially packaged merchandise.
Product Identification Information
All cartons must be printed with the following human readable information:
• Vendor Stock Number • Product Description
• Sell by Date (if applicable) • Temperature control instructions (if applicable)
• Color, Size or Style (if applicable) • Pack (number of selling units in the carton)
• Walmart Item Number if an assortment, shoes or apparel.
• For Walmart private label orders, please also include any other mark required by that
department’s Packaging Tool Kit.
Note: Perishable products must be dated with a pack date or sell-by date. If the pack
date is used as a reference, the supplier must provide guidelines to maintain freshness and
quality. If the item contains a sell-by date on the retail unit, the outside of the carton
should be clearly marked with the sell-by date. If the item is coded, the supplier must
provide instructions on deciphering the code.
Carton marking information may be printed directly on the corrugated carton or printed
on a label and applied to each shipping carton. If stenciling is the only means to mark the
cartons, then a minimum of one quarter inch (1/4”) lettering must be used. Exceptions
would only pertain to bagged products or non-corrugated packaging (i.e. potting
soil, bagged dog food, ladders, etc.) where the information is visible on the bag.
16 Update September 2009
Shipping Label Shipping Label SCC-14 Bar Code SCC-14 Bar Code
Product ID Label
Printed on Carton
UPC UPC
Carton markings should not be confused with Shipping Labels. Carton markings identify
all information that is particular to the supplier while the shipping label identifies
information that is particular to Wal-Mart such as where the box is being shipped, PO #,
Item #, etc. It is permissible to print all the carton markings on the shipping label.
See Product ID label example above. This label should then be placed on at least one
side of the product.
NOTE: If the stock numbers are very similar and the box size is the same, it is easy for
the DC to misapply the freight to the wrong line on the purchase order. To keep this from
happening, be sure the stock numbers are large enough to be easily read and/or color
code the cases if applicable. If shipping multiple items on the same pallet, load in layers
on the pallet with a slipsheet or similar barrier placed between the items.
Product ID
Label
Enlarged
17 Update September 2009
8.5. Shipping Label Requirements
Suppliers are required to use the below standard shipping label format for domestic
shipments. Walmart does not provide a template for this label. It is the supplier’s
responsibility to create the label in the format seen on page 18. Shipping labels should
not have shine or glare as it can affect the scan of the bar code. Shipping labels are
recommended to be 4X6 inches when including the bar code information, but can vary
with different size boxes as needed. The standard shipping label must contain the
following:
• “Ship From” Address — Suppliers address, city, state, zip code
• “Ship To” Address — Wal-Mart DC address, city, state, zip code including expanded
GLN address
• Postal Bar Code — (optional)
• Carrier Name- (Optional if shipping collect)
• Pro Number — (Optional if shipping collect)
• Bill of Lading Number — (Optional if shipping collect)
• Facility / Location— 5 digits (DC #)
• Purchase Order Type — 4 digits (TYPE)
• Department Number — 5 digits (DEPT)
• Purchase Order Number — 10 digits (ORDER #)
• Wal-Mart Item Number- (WMIT #)
• 14-Digit Shipping Container Code (SCC) Bar Code (if shipping through a Wal-Mart
DC)
• 12-Digit item UPC
18 Update September 2009
Label Placement
Place your shipping labels on the top left corner of the case. See example on page 14.
This should be on the long side of the box with the bottom of the case laying flat. If your
case does not allow for this placement, place the label on the top of the case, making sure
the label does not straddle any seams, could be damaged by tape, or obscured in any other
manner.
Shipping Label Examples
Example shipping label “A” Example shipping label “B”
Example Shipping Label B includes
SCC-14 Barcode required for all
Vendor Packs Shipped into Walmart
Distribution Centers.
Order# is the Purchase Order #
For additional direct Import label requirements please refer to Retail Link/Site
Map/Global Procurement Information/Shipping Case Requirements for Direct Imports to
WMT PR & WMT US
19 Update September 2009
8.6 SCC-14 Interleaved 2 of 5 Bar Code
Walmart requires an SCC-14 bar code on all vendor pack cases with multiple selling
units when shipped to a Walmart Regional Distribution Centers
NOTE: Single packed items with one selling unit, with one UPC, do not require a SCC-
14 Bar Code. The item UPC should be put on the cartons or visible on the item when it is
received. If you use a removable UPC or tear off UPC label it must be applied so it can
withstand the conditions of the warehouse receiving systems so it does not come off.
Applying it on multiple sides is highly recommended.
The SCC-14 interleaved 2 of 5 bar code is not required to be provided to Wal-Mart
before it is received in the distribution center. Each individual DC catalogs the bar code
information into their system when they receive the merchandise upon first receipt. The
bar code is recommended to be .75” in height and 3” long.
Interleaved 2 of 5 is a numbers only bar code. The high density code is 14 characters in
length with the final digit as a check digit. The “interleaved” part of the name comes
from the fact that a digit is encoded in the bars and the next digit is encoded in the spaces.
The encoded digits are “interleaved” together. More information regarding the SCC-14
Interleaved 2 of 5 bar code and bar code generating software can be found through
internet search engines.
SCC-14 Carton Bar Code Location
The shipping container bar code location must be located right of center on the longest
side of the shipping carton. The bottom of the bars must be no less than 1.25 inches
above the container's natural bottom and no more than 3.0 inches above the containers
natural bottom. The outer edge of the right quiet zone must be no closer than 0.75 inches
to the right edge of the vertical face. It is important to maintain these locations to prevent
damage of the bar code due to "edge crush".
20 Update September 2009
Creating the SHIPPING CONTAINER BAR CODE SCC-14 (I 2 OF 5)
It is the supplier’s responsibility to create the SCC-14 bar code. Walmart does not
provide the tools or software necessary to create bar codes. The 14-digit bar code
(Interleaved 2 of 5) provides a unique SKU identification number that is cross-referenced
at the DC to a specific Walmart.com item and pack. The SCC-14 is very similar to the
12-digit UPC product code. Both symbols use a unique manufacturer’s number that
identifies the merchandise producer or labeler and a 5-digit item number assigned by the
manufacturer to a specific product. The SCC-14 provides additional pack level
identification for any given carton.
SCC - 14 Character Identification
First Digit - Packaging Indicator
The packaging indicator can be any number from 0 to 8. When the vendor pack contains
a pack of all the same item UPC, use a packing indicator ranging from 1 thru 8. For
example, 1 may represent a pack of 12, 2 may represent a pack of 36, etc. The packaging
indicator must be unique only within the same item UPC. It is not necessary to
maintain the same PI across different items.
When a carton contains more than one selling unit of multiple different UPC’s, use a
packaging indicator of 0 is required. A new item number must be assigned for a standard
assortment. The assigned item number must be unique from any other item in your
category of products. You may use the UPC assigned by Walmart.com for a standard
pack assortment instead of creating a new internal item number. The Walmart standard
pack assortment UPC created by the buyer starts with 004, 400, or some form of a 4000
type.
Second & Third Digits - Number System Character
The number system character is assigned by the Uniform Code Council as the first digit
in each manufacturer’s 6-digit UPC identification number. A zero is always inserted
before the number system character. For example:
• If your selling unit UPC is 0 12345 67890 5 — the NN is 00.
• If your selling unit UPC is 6 12345 67890 7 — the NN is 06.
0 00 12345 67890 5
PI Packaging Indicator
NN
Number System
Character MM
Manufacturer
UPC Number II
Item ID C
Check Digit
21 Update September 2009
Digit’s Four Thru Eight - Manufacturer’s UPC Number
This 5-digit number is always the manufacturer’s UPC identification number. When the
number system character is added, the complete manufacturer’s ID number is six digits
long.
Digit’s Nine Thru Thirteen - Item ID
There are two ways of assigning a item ID:
1. Use the same 5-digit number assigned to the UPC of the item in the carton.
Bonus packs, promotional packs, special displays, and product containers that have
matching UPC item numbers and standard pack replenishment item numbers must be
identified by a unique item number used in conjunction with a PI of 0. On these items, a
unique packaging indicator may be used to differentiate these products.
2. Use a unique 5-digit number for each level of packaging of the same product. A unique
item number must always be used to identify assortments with more than one consumer
package UPC inside the inner carton or shipping container. When the item number is
different than the product inside the shipping container, you must use 0 as the packaging
indicator.
Digit Fourteen – Check Digit
The check digit is based on the data from the other 13 digits and the following formula:
Shipping Container Code 0 0012345 67890 5
1. Starting with the packaging indicator, add all the characters in the odd positions.
0+0+2+4+6+8+0=20
2. Multiply the sum by three.
20x3=60
3. Add all the characters in the even positions.
0+1+3+5+7+9=25
4. Add the product from the second step to the sum of the third step.
60+25=85
5. The check digit will be the number that gives the next highest multiple of 10 when
added
to the sum of step 4.
85+5=90 The check digit is 5.
Use verification equipment to test the shipping container code. Be sure to verify all 14
digits, including the check digit.
Example of creating the SCC-14 (I 2 OF 5)
Below is an easy way to create the SCC-14 bar code from your 12 digit item UPC.
Example- 6 pk of canned corn. 12 digit item UPC – 0 12345 67890 5
1) Drop check digit on item UPC and add a leading zero- 00 12345 67890
2) Establish the PI. Cans of corn in case are all the same. Six pack is the smallest
pack size for this item, so your PI would be 1 00 12345 67890
3) Calculate a new check digit following the steps above. 1 00 12345 67890 2
22 Update September 2009
Additional Information
For more detailed information on shipping container codes, contact the Uniform Code
Council, Inc. in Dayton, Ohio at (513) 435-3870. Request “Application Standard for
Shipping Container Codes”.
8.7. Apparel specific UPC and Labeling Requirements
√ UPC must be at the color/size level and be unique to Walmart.com (the UPC can
NOT be the same as Walmart Stores).
√ Only the Walmart.com unique UPC is required on the hang tag or shoe box. It is ok to
use the same hang tag or shoe box as the Wal-Mart Stores and put a sticker with the
Walmart.com UPC over the Wal-Mart Stores UPC.
√ UPC Barcode labels should show 12 digits upon scanning and writing (including
check digit yet eliminating the first preceding digit). V Recommended size for UPC
sticker is 1“ x 2“.
√ Care labels will be the same as Wal-Mart Stores (the UPC does not need to change on
the care label only)
√ All cartons must be labeled per the Wal-Mart Carton Labeling and Marking
Requirements (see example on page 16)
8.8. Shipping Label Placement
Loose Boxes (Courier Shipments)
Shipping Labels placed on top of the boxes must
be away from any packing tape.
Each carton/pallet must be individually labeled. Labels must be easily located. One
package label must be located in the upper third of the pallet. All labels must be visible
on the perimeter of the pallet, including serial number labels.
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9. Proper Pallet Loading
This diagram shows the correct loading pattern. The cartons are protected in transit by the
pallet. The pallet must be 40“ x 48“ with fork access on 40“ face or both. Pallet height
must not exceed 84“.
This diagram shows the incorrect way of loading a pallet. The cartons would be damaged
due to overhang and would require re-work.
24 Update September 2009
10. Schedule of Re-work Fees
All Apparel Merchandise is subject to our Packaging and Labeling Requirements. Any
Merchandise not conforming to our minimum standards will be candidates for a vendor
re-work fee charge back or a Return-To-Vendor (RTV), at the discretion of
Walmart.com.
Vendor re-work fee charge backs will be generated at the Receiving facility for all
violations of packaging and labeling requirements. Re-work fee charge backs will then be
routed to the responsible Merchant for approval. Upon approval, copies will be sent to the
Accounting department for processing. Approved charge backs for re-work fees can be
deducted from the next vendor invoice payment or billed separately, at the discretion of
Walmart.com. Re-work fee charge backs are subject to change without notice. The
current schedule of re-work fees is as follows and provides cost per individual unit:
Re-work Task Cost per unit Comments
UPC Labeling $2.00 If missing
De-Assortment $0.14 sorting, $0.12 parent/child process, $0.10 ticketing, if needed
Includes sorting (by style, color, size), Master (parent)/Assortment (Child) receipt and transfer process, ticketing and re-ticketing. Does not include folding or poly-bagging individual items.
Hanger Removal & Disposal $0.48
Breaking out Assortments (sort) if goods received with multiple Styles, Sizes & Colors in a carton
$0.14
Parent/Child receipt & transfer process
$0.12
Folding (no pins, paper or other items)
$0.62
Poly-bagging, Ticketing/Re-ticketing
$0.82
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11. Contacts
For information and inquiries regarding Packaging Guidelines please contact the
Merchandise Logistics Managers at [email protected].
For information and inquiries regarding UPC & other labeling issues, carton marking
requirements and pallet configuration requirements, please contact
12. Glossary of Terms
Burst Strength: The strength of material expressed in pounds per square inch.
Box Manufacturer‘s Certificate (BMC): A statement printed on a domestically-produced
corrugated box guaranteeing that all applicable construction requirements of the carriers
have been observed. This statement is also used for identifying and locating the box
maker.
Corrugated: Paper fiber board
Dunnage: Devices or materials used to hold, secure or protect goods during shipment.