Packaging terms can vary across retailers, but the fundamentals remain the same. This glossary defines the most common packaging, labeling, and logistics terms suppliers encounter—from ASNs and pallet builds to SQEP and sustainability standards.
Term | Definition |
2D Barcode | A barcode that holds more data than a standard 1D UPC, enabling traceability and additional product details. Retailers are transitioning toward 2D to improve receiving and recall accuracy. |
ASN (Advance Shipping Notice) | EDI 856 document sent before a shipment arrives. Lists what’s shipping, how it’s packed, and expected arrival. Inaccurate or late ASNs are a leading cause of deductions. |
Banding/Strapping | Plastic or metal straps used to secure heavy or uneven loads on pallets. Overuse can crush cartons or trigger non-compliance. |
Bill of Lading (BOL) | EDI 211 document that acts as both a shipment receipt and a contract between supplier and carrier. Should include item counts and damages before signing. |
Break Pack (Warehouse Pack) | A smaller grouping within a master case used for redistribution or store-level replenishment. |
Burst Strength/ECT | Tests that measure corrugate durability. Retailers often require 200-lb burst or 32-ECT edge crush minimums for shipping cartons. |
Carton Marking | Information printed or labeled on case exteriors (description, quantity, barcode, handling). Incorrect marking is a frequent SQEP defect at Walmart. |
Case Pack/Master Pack/Vendor Pack | The outer shipping carton holding multiple units or inner packs. Determines pallet configuration and case compliance. |
Chargeback (Deduction) | Financial penalty applied when shipments fail retailer requirements (e.g., incorrect labeling, late ASN, pallet overhang). |
CPSIA/CPSC | U.S. product safety standards that regulate labeling and testing for children’s and consumer products. |
DC (Distribution Center) | Retailer hub where products are received, scanned, and redistributed. Pallet stability and label placement are key compliance factors. |
Dunnage | Packing materials used to fill voids or brace products during transit. Should not obstruct barcodes or labels. |
EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) | Digital communication system for exchanging POs, ASNs, invoices, delivery confirmations, and more between businesses. |
EU Packaging Directive (94/62/EC) | European Union law mandating packaging minimization and recycling standards for all member states. |
FDA/USDA Labeling | U.S. agencies that regulate food and agricultural packaging for safety, ingredients, and allergen statements. |
FFP (Frustration-Free Packaging) | Amazon’s recyclable, easy-open, ISTA-tested packaging program. Non-compliance can lead to per-unit penalties and increased fees. |
FPLA (Fair Packaging and Labeling Act) | Federal act requiring consumer products to disclose identity, quantity, and responsible business name/address. |
FSMA TLC (Traceability Lot Code) | Unique code required under FSMA for food traceability. Missing or illegible codes expand recall scope and fines. |
GMA Pallet | The standard 48” x 40” four-way pallet used across North American retail. |
GS1/GS1-128/ITF-14 | Global standards for barcode and logistics labels. GS1-128 encodes case-level data; ITF-14 is for corrugated cases. |
GTIN (Global Trade Item Number) | Globally recognized product identifier tied to each SKU. Must match item setup in retailer systems. |
Inner Pack | A smaller grouping of identical items within a master case, simplifying handling and replenishment. |
ISTA 6 | Industry test that simulates parcel handling (drops, vibration, compression). Used by Amazon and e-commerce networks. |
Label Compliance | Ensuring labels are accurate, readable, and correctly placed. Common defects include “Wrong Format” or “Barcode Not on Two Sides.” |
Lot/Batch Code | Production identifier that allows recall tracing. Must be printed clearly and consistently. |
MAP (Modified Atmosphere Packaging) | Method used to extend food shelf life by altering the gas composition inside packaging. |
Overhang | When cartons extend past pallet edges, reducing stability and increasing damage risk. A common Walmart SQEP defect. |
Pallet Build (TI/HI) | Refers to how cases are arranged: TI = number per layer; HI = layers high. Impacts load stability and compliance. |
Pallet Grade/Quality | Assessment of pallet condition (e.g., Grade A, no broken boards). Poor quality can lead to dock rejections. |
POD (Proof of Delivery) | EDI 861 document verifying that a shipment was received. Critical for resolving deductions. |
Polybag | Clear protective bag used in apparel. Must meet minimum thickness and include suffocation warnings when required. |
QR Code | 2D barcode scanned by phones or DC scanners for traceability or consumer engagement. |
RRP/SRP (Retail-Ready/Shelf-Ready Packaging) | Secondary packaging that moves directly from truck to shelf. Walmart’s “5 Easies” define SRP standards. |
Routing Guide | Retailer-issued manual outlining packaging, labeling, and shipping requirements. Violations often lead to deductions. |
SB 54 (California) | Plastic Pollution Prevention Act mandating all packaging sold in California be recyclable or compostable by 2032. |
Secondary Packaging | The middle layer between primary and shipping packaging. Optimized for handling, stocking, and compliance. |
Slip Sheet | Thin layer separating pallet tiers or SKUs, improving stability. |
SQEP (Supplier Quality Excellence Program) | Walmart’s performance and fining system tracking supplier compliance in packaging, labeling, and pallet quality. |
STOP Label | Walmart’s required identification label for master packs. Incorrect or missing labels generate deductions. |
Stretch Wrap | Clear plastic film wrapped around pallets to secure cartons. Must be clear, 80-gauge, bottom-to-top overlap, with no colored wrap or loose tails. |
Tertiary Packaging | Outermost protective layer (pallet, corner boards, wrap). Designed for transport durability. |
TI/HI | Shorthand for pallet pattern — number of cases per layer (TI) x layers high (HI). |
UPC (Universal Product Code) | Standard point-of-sale barcode printed on individual retail units. |
VICS/GS1 Hanger | Apparel hanger standards defining materials, color, and recycling marks. Required for store readiness. |
VNPK (Vendor Pack) | Walmart term for case configuration tied to a specific GTIN. Must match item setup exactly in Retail Link. |
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