This sub process describes the requirements, recommendations and guidelines STAND has on how pallets are to be built and labelled for optimal transport and storage through the value chain. The areas described are: It is a prerequisite for maintaining strength, that Stock Keeping Units (SKU) are placed within
the edges of the pallet with a small margin. The pallet area should be utilized as best as possible with products. By following the Modular system To ensure efficient utilization of production facilities, transport, storage and retail systems, etc., all packaging levels – Consumer Units (CU), Stock Keeping Units (SKU) and
Distribution Units (DU) must be adapted to the modular system. The modular system is based on physical goals; length, width and height. The starting point for the modular system is a Basic module. When optimizing an existing product, a deviation of a maximum of 49 mm is allowed. Example of optimized pallet with base module 600 x 400 mm Examples of sizes that are widely used on Stock Keeping Units (SKU), and which are customized to basic modules optimal use of the pallet is ensured and reduces the risk of the load shifting during transport. Overhang is not accepted. Requirements for the design of the Distribution Unit (DU) and palletizationThe Distribution Unit (DU) is the unit the Stock Keeping Units (SKU) is stacked on / packed in for transport to distributor. Design of a Standard pallet (Standard pallet and Standard pallet – Low) A Standard pallet must contain the same product (same GTIN) with a fixed number of Stock Keeping Units (SKU), in a fixed pallet pattern, with equal number of Stock Keeping Units (SKU)on each layer, and where labelling of unique product information on the Distribution Unit (DU) is possible. The pallet structure shall contain as little excess volume of “air” as possible. Standard pallet Standard pallet – Low Principles for the construction of a palletpattern, central in calculation of top load weight, ref Top load labelling system. When creating a pallet pattern, the following applies:
Types of pallet pattern When constructing Distribution Units (DU), the Stock Keeping Unit (SKU) must be placed in accordance with a given pallet pattern. These are referred to as bond stacking and column stacking. Pallets can also be built as a combination of bond stacking and column stacking. Bond Stacking Example of good pallet utilization and stacking with bond stacking, for good stability. Column Stacking Example of column stacking in the lower pallet layers, and bond stacking on the top layer. Combining the different stacking methods achieves good stack strength on the lower layers while the pallet is locked on top. Use of plastic to secure the pallet through the value chain
Use of intermediate pallet sheets
See also Automated storage at distributor – greater understanding of the depalletization process Example of intermediate pallet sheet that does not meet quality requirements. The intermediate pallet sheet is a thin paper and is not suitable for automatic warehouse systems Example of what happens when using “thin paper” intermediate
pallet sheets.
Example of pallet with intermediate pallet sheets, too big –
hanging on outside the pallet. Intermediate pallet sheets with holes. Is not suitable. Purpose of labelling of Stock Keeping Unit (SKU) and Distribution Unit (DU)The purpose of a standard for labelling of Stock Keeping Unit (SKU) and Distribution Unit (DU) with subsequent electronic data interchange (EDI) is to:
The basis for this is the labelling of each Distribution Unit (DU) with a unique SSCC. This code is the main key in the electronic Despatch Advice and is linked to information about which GTIN which the Distribution Unit (DU) consists of, the number of Stock Keeping Units (SKU) batch / lot number and shelf life information if applicable. SSCC is the most important key for traceability of Distributions Units (DU), see Recommended way to track and trace a product in the value chain. For that reason SSCC shall not be reused until after a minimum of 6 years. Recommended way to track and trace a product in the value chain Recommended traceability methods in the value chain Traceability using pallet labelling and EDI Despatch Advice For products distributed through the retailer’s distribution warehouses, the industry’s unified guidelines for the identification and Distribution Units (DU) are based on GS1 standards. To conduct traceability, each actor in the value chain must have a system that can store and process Distribution Units (DU) or logistic units with unique identifiers. The importance of SSCC as the primary tracking key for deliveries A prerequisite for the tracking information to remain intact is that an SSCC is not reused. Since the pallet now has a new SSCC, it can no longer be used as a mutual tracking key in the retail value chain. In case of an incident with a possible recall / withdrawal of products, this could be critical. STAND has therefore decided the following: Traceability
at and from sender On Consumer Unit (CU), GTIN should preferably be labelled with the EAN-13 bar code symbol. Stock Keeping Unit (SKU) on the Distribution Unit (DU) must be labelled with an approved bar code symbology and linked to the Distribution Unit’s (DU) unique identification. Each pallet must be labelled with one GS1-128 bar code pallet label. The label contains a unique identifier (SSCC) which enables a link between the Stock Keeping Unit (SKU) on the pallet and the batch / lot number stored in the sender’s IT systems. If the pallet is split or changed (for example, to one Mixed pallet or Promotional Unit, it shall be identified with a new GS1-128 label and SSCC. Mixed pallets are not labelled with product information. The product information is attached to the pallet’s SSCC by scanning each Stock Keeping Unit (SKU) when the Distribution Unit (DU) is being assembled. Once the sender has created the connection between the Stock Keeping Unit (SKU and the Distribution Unit (DU) and secured this, the information can be used to make an EDI Despatch Advice. The EDI Despatch Advice is then sent from the sender to the recipient of the products. The parties are identified with GLN. This provides a clear and secure identification of the parties and is central to traceability. The Despatch Advice contains all relevant product information (GTIN, batch / lot and shelf life) about the shipment, and that it ties it to each Distribution Unit (DU) using SSCC. For shipment, the supplier scans all outgoing Distribution Units (DU) and thus has a unified link between the individual product, its associated batches and which customer receives the product. This also enables effective control of the sending of correct products to customers. Sender sends EDI Despatch Advice to recipient at agreed time. Traceability at receiver All Stock Keeping Units (SKU) and Distribution Unit (DU) information is received in the EDI Despatch Advice. Using the EDI Despatch Advice, the tracking information is taken care of and significantly simplifies the products receipt. The link to the product information occurs when the recipient scans the SSCC on each Distribution Unit (DU). Here, the recipient connects information about the products (GTIN, batch and shelf life information, against the sender (GLN). For a Standard pallet all relevant information can be scanned from the Distribution Unit (DU) labels. This ensures that correct products are received at the same time as traceability information can be linked to the individual supplier. This simplifies and ensures the sharing of proper traceability information. Mixed pallets must be split into the warehouse, and through IT support ensure that accurate and statutory traceability information is safeguarded and connected correctly. Efficiency and traceability are achieved primarily through:
To ensure rational product and information flow in the distribution chain, STAND recommends a uniform labelling of Stock Keeping Units (SKU) and Distribution Units (DU). This labelling concept also applies to types of transport units other than pallets. For fish and fish products, the following applies: It can be ordered from Standard Norway. Product information on Stock Keeping Unit (SKU), with example of Stock Keeping Unit (SKU) label Only product information should be labelled on a Stock Keeping Unit (SKU). Intermediate Cartons shall be labelled as Stock Keeping Units (SKU) Possible product information which SHALL or CAN be labelled on a Stock Keeping Unit (SKU) GTIN – Global Trade Item Number All Stock Keeping Units (SKU) must have their own GTIN. Name of brand owner Product name Batch / lot number Shelf life information (“Best before” date, alternatively “Expiry date”) GS1-128 AI 15 shall be used for «Best before date” Net weight Supplier’s item number Table showing what SHALL or CAN be labelled:
Example of GS1 Product label for Stock Keeping Unit (SKU), for a product with “Best before” date and a fixed weight: Fig 237Example of GS1 Product label for Stock Keeping Unit (SKU), for a product with “Expiry date” and variable measures: Fig 298Product information on Distribution Unit (DU), with example of Distribution Unit (DU) labelThe standard differs on different types of pallets depending on the content. Only Standard pallet and Promotional Unit can provide a clear labelling of product information that applies to the entire pallet. Standard pallet It is recommended that a Standard pallet only contain Stock Keeping Units (SKU) with the same batch / lot number and shelf life date. There are two different types of Standard pallet:
Standard pallet – Low is used for low-frequency products and for products with short shelf life. A product can only be used on one type of Standard pallet, either 120 cm height or 60 cm height. Standard pallet with height 120 cm Standard pallet with height 60 cm (Standard pallet – Low) Standard pallet shall be labelled with product and transport information. Since product information and transportation information are usually known at different times, the practical solution is to label the device with two different labels:
Product information on the GS1 product label for Standard pallet SSCC
(License Plate) The bar code containing the SSCC should be the lowest bar code on the label. It is recommended to have a bar code containing only the SSCC and no other AI’s. GTIN – Global
Trade Item Number
Product name Batch / lot number. If all Stock Keeping Units (SKU) on the pallet have the same batch / lot number, this is indicated on the label in human readable text and bar code. If the pallet contains Stock Keeping Units (SKU) with different batch / lot numbers, batch / lot number is omitted on the label. However, all unique batch / lot numbers must be stated in the electronic Despatch Advice. Shelf life information Net weight (in grams) Gross weight (in whole kg) Max. top load (in whole kg) Temperature requirements Product labelling on Standard pallet
Example on the GS1 product label for Standard pallet
Promotional Unit A Unit defined as a Stock Keeping Unit (SKU) containing a fixed number of Consumer Unit (CU), intended for display in stores. Promotional Unit can be 1/1 pallet, 1/2 pallet or 1/3 pallet. Each Promotional Unit has its own load carrier. Promotional Unit consisting of 1/2 pallet or 1/3 pallet are placed on a slave pallet. This constitutes a transport unit. If slave pallet is omitted, this must be agreed bilaterally. For example, for 1/2 pallets with good stability, they can be tied together and exclude the slave pallet. This allows for better use of the pallet by increasing the Promotional Unit, thus allowing more items on the pallet. Promotional Units are labelled with two levels of SSCC:
Labelling of Promotional Units provides increased traceability in the value chain Product information on the GS1 product label for Promotional Unit SSCC (License Plate) The bar code containing the SSCC should be the lowest bar code on the label. It is recommended to have a bar code containing only the SSCC and no other AI’s. GTIN – Global Trade Item Number
Product name Batch / lot number If all Stock Keeping Units (SKU) on the Distribution Unit (DU) have the same batch / lot number, this is indicated on the label in plain text and bar code. If the Distribution Unit (DU) contains Stock Keeping Units (SKU) with different batch / lot numbers, batch / lot number is omitted on the label. However, all unique batch / lot numbers must be stated in the electronic Despatch Advice. Shelf life information Net weight (in grams) Gross weight (in whole kg) Max. top load (in whole kg) Temperature requirements Product labelling on Promotional Unit
Example of Stock Keeping Unit (SKU) label with SSCC for Promotional Unit Units where product information can not be entered on their own label Mixed pallet Mixed pallet without intermediate pallet: Mixed pallet with intermediate pallet: The choice of type of mixed pallet depends, among other things, on handling costs, transport / environmental costs and storage technology and must be agreed bilaterally between the parties. If intermediate pallet(s) are used, it shall always be ordered the amount of Stock Keeping Units (SKU) to complete a layer. Mixed pallet (both with and without intermediate pallet) is labelled with Standard shipping label for Norwegian grocery sector. Customer packed pallet When a supplier assembles products for delivery to the final recipient, the products are packaged and labelled with SSCC at two packaging levels. Customer packed units are labelled for delivery to the end-user and the Distribution Unit (DU) is labelled for delivery to the transit warehouse. On Customer packed units it is not possible to enter product information on the Distribution Unit (DU) label. A customer-packed pallet can be Customer packed unit – multiple route, multiple customers, Customer packed unit – single route, multiple customers, or Customer packed unit – single customer.
This Customer packed units does not need to have its own load carrier and is being loaded on a standardized transport unit (for example, an EUR pallet). Customer packed unit – multiple route, multiple customers and Customer packed unit – single route, multiple customer is stacked in columns per. end receiver. Customer packed unit – multiple route, multiple customers is split after products receipt in the transit warehouse, and the individual Customer packed unit is forwarded to the final recipient. A prerequisite is that all Customer packed units located on one Distribution Unit (DU) are destined for the same transit warehouse. Transport information on pallet with example of transport labelContent of the Standard shipping label for the Norwegian grocery sector.
Example of Standard shipping label for the grocery industry Transport
label for Standard pallet A GS1 product label on a Standard pallet requires labeling of SSCC, gross weight, top load weight and temperature requirements. This information can therefore be omitted from Standard shipping label for the grocery industry. If both product label and transport label are used, SSCC can be labelled on both labels provided that the identical number is used. Transport label for Promotional Unit The Distribution Unit (DU) is identified and labelled with its own SSCC If the Promotional Unit a 1/1 pallet, the same labelling of transport label as for Standard pallet is used. Transport label for Mixed pallet If the Mixed pallet is not stackable, information on Top load is omitted. Transport label for Customer packed pallets Note in particular: Recipient’s name, address, etc. As recipient transit warehouse is given and transit address is given as delivery address. The pallet must be labelled with the transit warehouse’s name, street address, postal code and postal address in human readable text. Name, address, etc. for the distribution warehouse. The via-field the distribution warehouse is given. The pallet must be labelled with the distributions warehouse’s name, street address, postal code and postal address in human readable text. Transport label for Customer packed units Transport Information. On this label, a separate field has been created for transport information. This is information that the buyer sends to the supplier in his order and which the supplier must put on the Customer packed unit’s transport label. Format and content of transport information is agreed between the parties. Content in transport label for customer packed unit
Guidelines for labels on Distribution Units (DU)Placement
of labels on pallet
Identical information Size and design of the labels
Recommended formats are:
Quality of labels
Bar code requirements for labelling with GS1-128 on Distribution Units (DU)Bar code label with GS1-128 bar codes shall be done according to GS1 General Specifications Chapter 5.4. Note in particular:
What type of pallet would be best suited to carry very extremely heavy loads?Four-way pallets, or pallets for heavy loads (or general-purpose systems that might have heavy loads) are best lifted by their more rigid stringers. These pallets are usually heavier, bigger and more durable than two-way pallets.
What type of storage rack might be used to store large pieces of lumber?Storage Needs. Cantilever racks are ideal for storing large, bulky items that differ in length and size like lumber, steel sheets, cartons, carpet, pipes, and bar-stock.
What type of storage equipment allows materials to be loaded at one end and retrieved at another end?What term refers to how much of an item is retrieved for shipment within a given period of time? hat type of storage equipment allows materials to be loaded at one end and retrieved at another end? Bulk stacking can be used for any type of product or material.
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