GS1-128 Carton Labeling Requirements
Every carton being shipped to Altar’d State distribution centers is required to have a compliant GS1-128 (formerly UCC-128) label. These logistical labels play a critical role in efficiently moving merchandise through the supply chain. Ship point certification of label compliance is critical to achieving an efficient supply chain. Suppliers should certify their GS1-128 label formats whenever software, hardware, or material is changed. Please ensure that each carton is labeled with a scannable GS1-128 label
All specifications and related information is based on use of a 4”X 6” standard size label.
All weights should be expressed in terms of UPS Dimensional Weight, unless stated otherwise.
Please select the label that reflects how the merchandise is packed. Failure to provide the required information will be considered non-compliant and will be subject to non-compliance charges.
General Marking Instructions
Markings must be on the longest portion of the carton
Cartons should be marked using printed labels
Carton weight must be expressed in FedEx dimensional weight, unless stated otherwise
Master Pack
PO number, vendor name, and address on longest side
All sides marked with “Master Carton.” See example below
Number of inner cartons for each master pack carton
Inner cartons should follow guidelines appropriate for whichever type PO is shipped
Carton Label (Bulk)
Pre-Pack Bulk Carton Marking/Shipping label requirements
Vendor name and address
Altar’d State Purchase Order Number
Style-Color–Size (Carton Detail)
Carton count identification or “on count” by purchase order. Example: PO 123456 box 1 of 10, 2 of 10, 3 of 10, etc.
Mark on longest side of carton
Examples of Acceptable Marking/Shipping labels for Bulk/Prepack PO
Carton Label (Pack-by-Store)
Pack-by-store carton marking/shipping label requirements
Vendor name and address
Altar’d State purchase order number
Carton weight must be expressed in terms of UPS dimensional weight
Store number and location
Carton detail (can be on main label, supplemental label, or attached packing slip)
Carton count identification or “on count” by purchase order. Example: PO 123456 box 1 of 10, 2 of 10, 3 of 10, etc.
Mark on longest side of carton
Example of acceptable marking/shipping label(s) for Pack-by-store PO
Label Placement Guidelines
Each carton is required to have one label (preferably GS1-128)
Labels must be placed on the longest side of the carton
Longest side runs parallel to top flap seam
Do not place label sideways or diagonally
Barcode label is recommended to be 3 inches from vertical edge of carton
Do not place label over a flap or around the corners of cartons
Do not place tape or other materials over barcode
Palletizing Instructions
Cartons must be stacked in a manner to optimize density and stability
Pallet height should not exceed 100 inches
Shrinkwrap should be applied to all sides and over top of palletized product.
*If you do not have the ability to palletize the shipment, please notify traffic when routing, and they will give you further instructions*
Failure to palletize a shipment will incur a chargeback
Cartons should be grouped together by PO, style, and color
Avoid mixing multiple POs on a single pallet
*If you cannot avoid this due to pallet spacing, clearly separate each PO with a divider or flat carton*
Do not spread cartons across multiple pallets if all will fit on one
Place cartons with marking/shipping label facing out
Packing slip must be visible and easily accessible on Lead Carton of each PO