5. PALLET REQUIREMENTS AND STACKING
All pallets must comply with the sections below.
Pallet Requirements
KeHE’ s warehouses are designed to accommodate Consumer Brands Association( CBA) formerly known as Grocery Manufacturers’ Association( GMA) pallets only. Fees apply for non-CBA / GMA and poor quality pallets. KeHE does not participate in pallet exchange or pool programs. CBA / GMA criteria includes:
• 48 by 40-inch footprint
• Four-way forklift entry
• 3 stringers( versus the much heavier 9-block pallets)
• Load-bearing capacity of at least 2,500 pounds and made of hardwood
Top and bottom deck boards that are ⅝-inch thick.
Like products for the same PO grouped together as much as possible, and externally labeled for identification( e. g. product name, variety, UPC).
When the majority of a pallet is a single SKU, place that SKU on the bottom to minimize re-handling at time of receipt.
Pallet Stacking
Secure product to pallets with stretch wrap. Wrap must be applied from the top of the product down to and including the pallet. Do not use tape, twine, bands, or nylon rope to secure the load. Loose cases, cartons, or Product not secured by stretch wrap may be rejected at receiving.
Double-stacking pallets increases risk of product damages. Should Supplier choose to double-stack pallets, all risk and liability shall be assumed by the Supplier.
Products should be stacked no higher than 72”.
Fees apply for“ Pin wheeling” pallets, i. e., pallets loaded with narrow end – pallet jack access turned to the side.
6. PROPER PACKING; LOCK & SEAL REQUIREMENTS
KeHE is committed to providing safe, high quality products to our customers. To achieve this, we require our Suppliers to have effective food safety and food defense systems in place, including proper packing, markings, and lock and seal requirements specified below.
NMFC Standards
Numbered Security Seals
Supplier shall pack, mark, and ship products in a manner to ensure proper protection and handling, including during loading and unloading, in accordance with normal industry practices. Shipping container / carton packaging must meet the minimum National Motor Freight Classification( NMFC) requirements to minimize transit damage. Ideally, carton closure with tape, glue, or staples and not plastic or steel banding. All deliveries are subject to inspection, case count, and acceptance at a KeHE DC, regardless of shipping method.
All full transport equipment must have numbered security seals on all doors, hatches, and openings. Seal numbers must be on the Bill of Lading( BOL) and match the seals on the transport equipment.
KeHE Inbound Routing Guide Version 15.0 November 2025 Page 8 of 22