Goods Receiving Requirements: Packaging and Shipping

2024 | Version 7.0

Last Updated March 2024

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Version

Date updated

What’s changed?

7.0

March 2024

Clarification on the rules for adding the PO Number to courier waybills in sections Step 4.1 : Adding the shipping note and label and Step 6.1: Physical requirements for acceptable delivery.

In addition, the maximum weight and height have been redefined for palleted shipments:

  • Maximum 1.8m height and maximum 1000kg in weight

6.9

March 2024

Consumer Electronics required original and/or tamper-proof packaging. See Appendix 12 - Consumer Electronics for more information.

6.8

Jan 2024

The following is required for barcodes:

  • 45 UP Labels are required - no paper or alternatives are permitted.

6.7

March 2023

Physical Receipt Requirements - Any master carton may not have any Takealot/Superbalist shipping or returns labels on them, it will be rejected immediately. Merchants should remove these labels before packaging and delivering these to Takealot warehouses.  See Step 2.2: Acceptable shipping packaging or Step 6.2: Rejected shipments and Inbound Exceptions

6.6

January 2023

Appendix 11: Non-conforming/large Items

All curtain rails, curtain rods and blinds must be packaged and shipped in a carton tube, with the barcode on the outside of the tube.

Generators and UPS items heavier than 80 kg must be packed and shipped by being strapped to a small pallet to ensure safe storage and handling.

Multiple POs in a Master Carton

A Master Carton may house up to 5 POs (shipments) provided correct conditions are met. See Step 2.2: Acceptable shipping packaging for more.

Wrapping - only transparent wrapping is allowed for product packaging or shipping units.

6.5

August 2022

Appendix 11: Non-conforming/large Items - All merchants must wrap large items/units with double-layered plastic wrapping (40 micron), or bubble wrap.

Bed Bases and Mattresses must be wrapped in thick double layer plastic (40 micron) around the mattress/unit OR may be boxed.

Appendix 3: Sold as Set & Multipiece - If the set’s dimensions are greater than 0.5m x 0.5m x 0.5m and/or has a maximum weight of more than 20kg, these items will need to be packaged together in a single outer carton (not shrink-wrapped or bundled), clearly mark “Sold as set” with a barcode on the outside of the box.

  • Maximum weight allowed into the DC for any sets is 70kg with a maximum allowed length of 3m.
  • Standard rules still apply for items below the new thresholds.

6.4

November 2021

Bed sets are no longer allowed to be sold as sets. These must be sold separately and packaged in double-layered plastic that can sustain multiple touch points.

6.3

November 2020

Jewellery, Watches & High-Value Items should be placed in sealed boxes. See Appendix for more.

6.2

November 2020

New Bookings Guides! See Step 6 for more.

6.1

October 2020

Introduction of Expiry Dates for specific categories. See Step 2.4 for more.

Index

Index

Pick, Pack & Ship Checklist

Glossary

Disclaimer

Step 1: Know your fulfilment model

Step 1.1: Creating and Managing Shipments on Your Seller Portal

Step 2: Assess your Packaging

Understand the warehouse environment

Step 2.1: Acceptable product packaging

Step 2.2: Acceptable shipping packaging

Step 2.3: Suitable for warehousing - the dust & drop test

Step 2.4: Warnings, signage and additional material

Food labelling

Step 3: Barcode Your Goods

Step 3.1: Additional considerations

Step 3.2: Barcode receiving problems and other common errors

Step 4: Placing Your Products in Shipping Boxes

Step 4.1 : Adding the shipping note and label

A working example

Step 5: Know your logistics operations

Step 5.1: Pick your logistics options

Step 6: Book your delivery & track receiving of your shipment

Step 6.1: Physical requirements for acceptable delivery

Step 6.2: Rejected shipments and Inbound Exceptions

Appendices

Appendix 1 - Fragile Items

Appendix 2 - Liquids

Appendix 3 - Sold as Set & Multipiece

Appendix 4 - Perforated Packaging

Appendix 5 - Apparel, Fabric, Plush and Textiles

Appendix 6 - Packaging Toys and Baby Units

Appendix 7 - Powders, Pellets and Granular

Appendix 8 - Sharp Objects

Appendix 9 - Small Objects

Appendix 10 - Jewellery, Watches & High-Value Items

Appendix 11 - Non-conforming/large Items

Appendix 12 - Consumer Electronics


Pick, Pack & Ship Checklist

The checklist is intended to assist in covering the most basic requirements.

1: Fulfilment Model

𝥷 I will be selling in-stock and I know how to create and manage these on the Seller Portal

𝥷 I will be selling on leadtime and I know how to create these and deliver these on-time

𝥷 I will be creating mixed shipments and I know how to create and manage these on the Seller Portal to ensure there are no late customer orders

2: Product Packaging

𝥷 All my products are packaged

𝥷 There is no visible damage to the packaging

𝥷 The packaging is suitable for a warehouse environment (dust and handling)

𝥷 The package passes the 1 metre drop test

𝥷 The packaging is not damaged and does not look used

𝥷 I have NOT included perishable products, hazardous objects or marketing materials

𝥷 Where required, suffocation warnings and expiration date guidelines have been followed

3: My Product does NOT Have Its Own Packaging (Poly Bags)

𝥷 I have placed the product(s) inside a transparent poly bag

𝥷 The polybag is at least 0.038 mm thick

𝥷 The Marketplace barcode is visually accessible and can be scanned

𝥷 The poly bag is sealed and tamper proof

𝥷 The bag does not protrude more than 7 cm past the dimension of the product

4: Barcoding

𝥷 I have printed the Marketplace product barcode(s) on 45 Up Labels

𝥷 The labels are readable and not smudged or faded

𝥷 I have placed the labels on each of the single units and/or only 1 per set of items sold together

𝥷 The label has been placed over any existing barcode

5: Placing & Labelling My Units (Work with the list that describes your shipment)

5.1: Single product

𝥷 The product has been wrapped with shrink wrap

𝥷 The Shipping Label has been applied to the outside of the plastic

5.2: Boxes

𝥷 The box and its contents are linked to a single PO

𝥷 All old labels have been removed from the boxes

𝥷 I have placed a Shipping Label on the outside the box

𝥷 The label has NOT been placed on a seam where a box cutter might cut it

𝥷 I have indicated how many boxes are included in this PO

𝥷 If using a courier, the Shipping Label has been placed next to the Courier Label

𝥷 I have placed the Shipping Note inside the box OR inside the box that is easiest to access and I have marked the box

5.4: Boxes on a Pallet

𝥷 The pallet is wooden and 1200mmx1000mm (no euro-pallets) with a 4-sided entry (preferred)

𝥷 I have stacked and wrapped in clear shrink wrap with no overhang

𝥷 The shipment label has been placed on the outside of the plastic

𝥷 The stacked pallet is no higher than 2 metres and does not weigh more than 1000kg

𝥷 There are no mixed expiration dates per pallet


Glossary

Term

Definition

In-stock

A supply of goods kept on hand for immediate sale in Takealot DCs.

Leadtime

The time between the initiation and completion of the Takealot.com order process.

DC

Distribution Centre

Preferred Courier

Takealot.com has partnered with preferred couriers to improve the inbound delivery service into the Distribution Centres.

Third Party Courier

Outsourcing your delivery logistics to a third-party delivery service company.

Listed Barcode

The official barcode required by takealot.com, which was listed as part of your catalogue.

Offer Information

Price and stock fulfilment information of a product on takealot.com

Dunnage

Material used to keep cargo in position during transportation.

Unit

A single product, within the product packaging regardless of whether or not the unit consists of a set.  

Master Carton

Master Cartons are defined as the outside carton containing multiple or single individually packaged units.

IBT

Inter-branch Transfer

Disclaimer

Products which are deemed to contain any imagery/prints/artworks/slogans which are deemed to be discriminatory in any way will be rejected and Takealot Group reserves the right to return this product/shipment to the merchant without reimbursement of incurred costs.


Step 1: Know your fulfilment model

There are 3 fulfilment options on Takealot Marketplace:

  1. In-stock: send units to Takealot’s Distribution Centres which are available for sale to customers in-stock
  2. Leadtime: only send units once there are customer orders, within a specified timeframe
  3. Mixed Fulfilment: hold stock at a takealot DC for in-stock sales AND make use of the leadtime option for depleted stock or slow-moving lines


Step 1.1: Creating and Managing Shipments on Your Seller Portal

Once you know your stock model, you will need to learn how to create and manage the leadtime and/or replenishment shipments on your Seller Portal. To assist you with visual walkthroughs, we have created a video series that will guide you step-by-step:

After watching the series above, you should be comfortable in managing your shipments on the Seller Portal. The sections to follow, will take you through the physical product, packaging and shipping requirements. In preparation for this, please also watch:

WARNING!

Please take note that your leadtime is set for both DCs. If you select the 2 day leadtime option, you will need to deliver to either DC within 2 business days.  Delivering early to the DC does not mean the delivery to the customer would be early - rather critically review leadtimes on what you can achieve to ensure on time delivery.


Step 2: Assess your Packaging

 Understand the warehouse environment

If you are unfamiliar with warehousing or warehouse management on such a large scale, please consider the following factors when packaging your products:

The following section will contain the general requirements for all goods sent to a Takealot DC.  You will need to refer to the appendices for specific requirements relating to, for example, fragile goods, sharp items, liquids etc.

 

Packaged Products

All units sent to a Takealot DC must be packaged in acceptable packaging that is able to withstand a warehouse environment. All necessary warnings should be included and the correct barcode placed over any existing barcode.

Takealot DCs will not pack away products without proper packaging.

ALLOWED

NOT ALLOWED

Product is not in packaging.

 

If you are selling sets or items consisting of multiple parts, please refer to Appendix X.

Step 2.1: Acceptable product packaging

The following is considered acceptable for the carrying and protection of products.

Boxes/Boxed Units

  • Must be six sided.
  • Must be completely sealed with tape and not easy to open.
  • Must not collapse when medium pressure is applied to any of the sides.
  • May not have perforated sides or openings unless it can pass a 1m drop test consisting of one

drop on each side and a drop on a corner. If the product does not pass the drop test, it must

be placed in a poly bag with a suffocation warning.

Poly Bags

  • We encourage the use of biodegradable shrink wrapping and poly bags
  • Poly bags with a 15cm opening or larger are required to have a suffocation warning, either

printed on the bag itself, or attached as a label. For example: “WARNING: Plastic bags can be

dangerous. To avoid danger of suffocation, keep this bag away from babies and children”

  • The warning should be printed or placed in a prominent location and in a legible font size for the

size of the bag.

  • The thickness of the bag must be at least 0.038mm.
  • The poly bag must be transparent.
  • The poly bag must have a product label or physical barcode that is scannable through the bag

or have a product label onto the outside of the bag.

  • Poly bags must be completely sealed and tamper proof.
  • Poly bags must be resealable
  • Poly bag or shrink wrap may not protrude more than 7cm past the dimensions of the product.

Shrinkwrap - for products that are not double sealed or require additional protection to withstand a DC environment. We encourage the use of biodegradable shrink wrapping.

Only transparent wrapping is permitted.

Step 2.2: Acceptable shipping packaging

Carton/Box

This can be a Master Carton or Inner Carton, and it is the most outer packaging (see below).

Master cartons may not have any Takealot shipping or returns labels on them, it will be rejected immediately. Merchants should remove these labels before packaging and delivering to Takealot warehouses.  

Allowed

Master Carton

Here the box is the Master Carton and houses the units to be delivered. There is no other box between the master carton and the units and it is the most outer packaging.

The Master Carton should always bear:

  • The Shipping Label
  • The Shipping Note

On these labels, all information should be clearly completed to indicate how many Master Cartons will be delivered with a shipment.

Allowed

Inner Carton

Here the box (top smaller picture) is the Inner Carton as it is not the most outer packaging. Inner cartons should only serve to provide additional protection during shipping if needed.

The Inner Carton should bear NO labels at all.

Instead, clearly write how many Inner Cartons have been included in the Master Carton to be opened e.g. “1 of 4 Inner Carton of 2 of 2 Master Cartons for PO XXXX”

Allowed

Multiple POs in a Master Carton

A Master Carton may house up to 5 POs (shipments) provided the following conditions are met:

Master Carton:

  • The Master Carton must contain the Shipping Labels and Notes for each PO included in the box, along with the quantity in carton and unique carton number.

Inside Master Carton:

  • Each PO must be separated and identifiable inside the Master Carton with transparent wrapping.
  • In the case of flat-packed items, each PO in the inside Master Carton must be separated by an insert/layer pad
  • Each PO must contain a Shipping Label (i.e. one on the outside of the Master Carton and 1 on the individual PO)

Takealot Bookings System:

  • Each PO within the Master Carton are booked for delivery on the Takealot Booking System. This may be via a booking or allocation to a Takealot Preferred Courier.

Important: For multiple POs in a Master Carton. Takealot DCs are not responsible for sorting POs in a carton and therefore reserve the right to reject. Ensure all cartons are marked and labelled correctly.

   Master Carton                 Inside Master Carton

Pallets

This is a pallet. All pallets must be:

  • Wooden
  • 1200mm x 1000mm (no euro-pallets)
  • Preferred 4-sided entry
  • Maximum 1.8m height and maximum 1000kg weight(including height + weight of pallet)
  • Shrink-wrapped with at least 2 layers from top to bottom
  • No mixed expiration dates per pallet

All pallets must bear the following:

  • Shipping Label that indicates the shipment(s) i.e. POs  on the Pallet
  • Weight and height as per above
  • Ti-Hi = Number of boxes x number of layers

E.g. There are 12 Master Cartons/Boxes across 4 layers. Ti-Hi = 12x4 = 48

Allowed

Poly Bags

Units that are not contained in secure packaging may be poly bagged.

  • The thickness of the bag must be at least 0.038mm.
  • The poly bag must be transparent.
  • The poly bag must have a product label that is scannable through the bag
  • or have a product label onto the outside of the bag.
  • Poly bags must be resealable
  • Poly bags must be completely sealed and tamper proof.
  • Poly bag or shrink wrap may not protrude more than 7cm past the dimensions of the product.

Poly bags with a 12.7 cm opening or larger are required to have a suffocation warning, either

printed on the bag itself, or attached as a label. The warning should be printed or placed in a prominent location and in a legible font size for the

size of the bag.

For example: “WARNING: Plastic bags can be

dangerous. To avoid danger of suffocation, keep this bag away from babies and children

Allowed

Dunnage

This refers to packing material such as boards, blocks, planks, metal or plastic bracing, used in supporting and securing packages for shipping and handling.

The following are accepted forms of dunnage:

  • Bubblewrap
  • Air Pillows
  • Full Sheets of Paper
  • Foam

The following are NOT ACCEPTED as dunnage:

  • Styrofoam peanuts
  • Biodegradable packing peanuts
  • Corn-starch packing peanuts
  • Crinkle wrap
  • Shredded paper

Allowed

Wrapping

Only transparent wrapping is permitted.

Allowed


Step 2.3: Suitable for warehousing - the dust & drop test

 

All products must be suitable and safe to store within a warehouse environment. This includes packaging that can sustain dust build up, general handling and that passes the 1 metre drop test :

A drop test consists of five drops from a 1 metre height onto a hard surface:

- Flat on base

- Flat on top

- Flat on longest side

- Flat on shortest side

- On a corner

Best Practice

  • Individually wrap or box all units to prevent damage. For example, in a set of four wine glasses, each individual wine glass must be wrapped before being placed into a box/
  • Box fragile units with six solid sides, so the unit is not exposed in any way.
  • Wrap multiple units individually to prevent them from damaging one another within their package.

Step 2.4: Warnings, signage and additional material

 

All warnings and signage must comply with Health and Safety Regulations as well as our requirements.

REQUIRED

PROHIBITED

Instruction Manuals

It is essential for all instruction manuals to be clear concise and written in English, especially if the  product is of a technical nature. This can significantly decrease customer returns and queries.

Perishable products

No perishable products may be included with the unit before packaging e.g. complimentary biscuits.

This will be removed by TAL personal and disposed of without reimbursement to the Seller.

Suffocation Warnings

Poly bags with a 15cm opening or larger are required to have a suffocation warning, either

printed on the bag itself, or attached as a label. For example: “WARNING: Plastic bags can be

dangerous. To avoid danger of suffocation, keep this bag away from babies and children

The warning should be printed or placed in a prominent location and in a legible font size for the

size of the bag.

Dangerous/Harmful Objects

No products that pose potential harm to TAL personal or a customer may be shipped to a TAL DC without adhering to the relevant packaging and labelling requirements.

Use safety knives with covered blades when packing products. This helps prevent sharp

objects, such as blades, from being accidentally left in boxes and potentially injuring an TAL associate or TAL customer.

Expiration Date Guidelines

  • Products that expire must be clearly marked on the item itself as well as on the master carton in 36+ point font and on the individual item/unit. Lot numbers alone are insufficient.
  • Expiration dates must be displayed in the format DD-MM-YYYY. If the expiration date is printed in a different format, a sticker with the format must be applied, covering the original expiration date.
  • Food products e.g. dog food requires a product conformance document to be presented upon receipt at the DC.
  • Products that expire and are contained in packaging that requires additional preparation, such as glass jars or bottles, must be prepared to ensure that the expiration date is accessible for TAL during the receiving process.

Important:

Please view the Expiry Date Category document that outlines the minimum shelf life per category when delivering to our DCs.

Expiration-dated products intended for regular application or consumption must have a remaining shelf life that includes the consumption period in addition to the 90 days.

For example, a 240-count bottle of daily supplements must have a remaining shelf life of 240 days + an additional 90 days at the time of check-in at the fulfillment center. Total shelf life = 11 months.

If you fail to have an expiry date above the minimum expiry days/shelf life for products in these categories, this will lead to delivery rejections at the DC’s.

Marketing Materials

No marketing materials may be included in the packaging of the unit before shipping. TAL reserves the right to remove marketing materials and destroy it at the Seller’s expense.

Food labelling

Regulations relating to the Labelling and Advertising of Foodstuffs in terms of the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act 54 of 1972 (FDA and FDA Regs), require products listed on takealot.com, as well as those delivered to the DCs, to comply with the following minimum requirements:

  • All food labelling must be in English, and where possible, one other SA language.
  • All labels must be affixed to the product in a manner that cannot be separated from the product or product container.
  • All products must clearly identify the name/description of the foodstuff - this must be accurate and inform consumers of exactly what is in the packaging.
  • All labels must clearly contain the:
  • Name and address of the manufacturer, importer, retailer or seller, whichever is applicable.
  • Instructions of use of the food or foodstuffs.
  • Storage instructions.
  • Country of origin.
  • Allergens.
  • Batch number.
  • Date marking (“best before”, “use by”, “sell by”).
  • All food labelling must be affixed to the product packaging.
  • Nutrional information must be affixed to the product, for example:


Step 3: Barcode Your Goods

Each unit you send to Takealot for fulfilment needs a scannable Takealot Marketplace Barcode to enable storage at the DC and handling throughout our supply chain operations.

Barcoded Goods

The following is required for barcodes:

  • 45 UP Labels are required - no paper or alternatives are permitted.
  • Cover any existing product barcode on the outside of a master carton
  • Each individual item/unit must have an exterior label that is easily accessible and include a scannable TAL barcode and the corresponding human readable numbers
  • Scannable - not smudged, faded or printed with the incorrect dimensions
  • Can’t be “wrapped around” a corner - flat surfaces only
  • Matches the product
  • Unique and correspond to one unique product. E.g. each assortment type (variant) of size or colour, will have a different barcode

CORRECT

INCORRECT

The original product (unit) barcode has not been covered.

Please note:

Tip: In the Seller Portal Product labels are generated for each of your products, ready to be printed on 45

up labels (39.2mm x 29.88mm).

Why is this required?

Selling via the Marketplace Model means that all stock remains your property throughout fulfilment. Items sent to the Takealot Distribution Centres do not constitute a sale and property will not transfer.

The Marketplace barcode is unique to the Product and Seller Account and ensures we can track all units sent, received, sold and returned on your specific account. In addition, Marketplace Sellers and Retail Suppliers are permitted to sell the same products on takealot.com by adding competing offers. By placing a Marketplace barcode on each of your units, our distribution centres are ensured to pick, pack and ship the unit that belongs to you and not a competing Seller or Supplier.

Step 3.1: Additional considerations

  • Any barcode/EAN/UPC/ISBN you use on a unit/item must be unique and must correspond to one unique product. For example, each assortment type (variant) of size or colour, will have a different barcode.
  • Each item/unit must have an exterior label that is easily accessible and include a scannable TAL barcode and the corresponding human readable numbers.
  • Remove or cover scannable barcodes on the outside of a master carton that includes multiple units. Only the individual item/unit within the carton can have scannable barcodes.
  • Proper quality checks of barcoded product must be conducted before shipment to minimise delays and returns from the DC.
  • Do not place faded labels on units

Correct

Incorrect

This will get separated when packed away as it is not clear it is a set

Barcode Positioning for rugs/carpets

  • A scannable barcode must be placed on the Front End of the outer packaging of the rug/carpet
  • Follow this for all long items, likely to be stored in a stack

Correct

Incorrect

The barcode position does not allow for identification from the side and is on the inside of the packaging which makes it hard/not possible to scan


Step 3.2: Barcode receiving problems and other common errors

Any unit(s) delivered without the required, unique, scannable barcode cannot be scanned into the Takealot DC and will be flagged as an Inbound Exception. In such instances, you will be required to collect the incorrectly barcoded stock the DC.

Barcode errors

Barcode label missing

Your unit was not labelled with a TAL product label or the label fell off

Unit mislabelled

Your unit’s label didn’t match the physical product. Make sure that the label title matches the corresponding unit.

Barcode cannot be scanned

This could be one or more of the following reasons:

  • The barcode integrity is compromised i.e. was smudged, which could be caused by low ink/toner in your printer or dirty printer heads
  • The label was placed around a corner or curve, which can make the barcode unscannable
  • Unit/Shipment Preparation Errors: One or more of the units on your shipment incurred problem with one or more of our Inbound Requirements. This could include problems with our labelling, packaging and prep, or shipping requirements

Examples of barcodes that cannot be scanned

Smudged Label

Poor Print Quality

Improper Label Placement

Over Labelling


Step 4: Placing Your Products in Shipping Boxes

The following applies to boxes shipped to a Takealot DC whether by small parcel delivery, less than truckload (LTL) or full truckload (FTL) shipping.

Visual references

Product

The unpackaged unit that the customer will receive.

Unit

The product within the product packaging. If you are selling a set, the full set inside one, inseparable piece of a packaging will also constitute a unit.

A unit should always bear:

  • A unique Marketplace barcode, specific to the product and that covers any existing barcodes

Multiple Units

More than 1 unit.

A unit should always bear:

  • A unique Marketplace barcode, specific to the product and that covers any existing barcodes

Carton/Box

This can be a Master Carton or Inner Carton, depending on whether or not it there it is the most outer packaging (see below).

Master Carton

Here the box is the Master Carton and houses the units to be delivered. There is no other box between the master carton and the units and it is the most outer packaging.

The Master Carton should always bear:

  • The Shipping Label
  • The Shipping Note

On these labels, all information should be clearly completed to indicate how many Master Cartons will be delivered with a shipment.

Inner Carton

Here the box (top smaller picture) is the Inner Carton as it is not the most outer packaging. Inner cartons should only serve to provide additional protection during shipping if needed.

The Inner Carton should bear NO labels at all.

Instead, clearly write how many Inner Cartons have been included in the Master Carton to be opened e.g. “1 of 4 Inner Carton of 2 of 2 Master Cartons for PO XXXX”

Master Carton Weight

Must be less than or equal to 18kg containing multiple standard sized items. If exceeded:

  • A box containing a single oversized item exceeding 18 kg requires label on top and side for "Team Lift" and sticker specifying total weight.
  • A box containing a single oversized item exceeding 45 kg require a label on top and side for "Mechanical Lift" and sticker specifying total weight.  

Case-packed units vs. Multi-piece (sold as set)

Multi-piece units sold as sets

Units that are sets must be marked as sets on their packaging. Add a label to the unit that states that the products are to be received and sold as a single unit. For example, “sold as set” or “This is a set. Do not separate.”

For case-packs sold as a SINGLE UNITS

I.e. the individual items within the case will be sold and not the case itself.

  • All products in a box must have matching SKU and condition.
  • All boxes with the same product will contain equal quantities of that product in each box.
  • No scannable barcodes on the case. Only the units in the case can have scannable barcodes.
  • May package more than one case-pack into a master carton i.e. use an inner carton .
  • Master cartons do not qualify as a case-pack.

IMPORTANT in the case is being sold and not the single units. The master carton should clearly state that the CASES are the sellable units and should not be opened. ALSO, be sure to list the CASE barcode and not the SINGLE UNIT barcode as the listed barcode with Takealot Group.

 

Each case will have 8 packages           Each package will have the same

                                                                 contents.


Step 4.1 : Adding the shipping note and label

Visual references

Shipping Label

This is required for EACH box in a PO and will become downloadable from your Seller Portal when creating a shipment.

The Shipping Label will be available for download on your Seller Portal when creating a shipment.

When attaching the Shipping Label, ensure:

  • It is NOT placed directly on the unit ; if there is NO Master Carton, shrink wrap the unit and place the label outside the shrinkwrap
  • It is clearly visible and uncovered
  • It has been placed next to the Courier Label
  • The number of boxes has been clearly indicated (see image)
  • DO NOT place the label on a seam where it may get cut by a box cutter 

Shipping Note

Always print 2 copies of the Shipping Note:

  • 1 for the Courier to keep as Proof of Deliver
  • 1 inside an easily accessible box in the shipment; this box is to be clearly marked to contain the note

Waybills & Proof of Delivery

In the event that you make use of a Takealot Preferred Courier or third-party delivery service, in which a waybill is created for the shipment, the waybill must display the PO number for the shipment.

The waybill with the corresponding PO number should be presented at the DC for signing. If your PO number is not printed on the courier Proof of Delivery/Waybill, the team will not sign courier paperwork.

Where multiple POs are included in the same delivery, each PO must be referenced on the waybill.


A working example

Below is a basic example of packaging a shipment for 3 units in a master carton:

___________________________________



Step 5: Know your logistics operations

Takealot Marketplace does not as yet offer a direct fulfilment model. This means that whether you opt to sell in-stock or on leadtime, you will need to deliver your goods to the relevant Takealot Distribution Centre i.e. Cape Town and Johannesburg

All Sellers are required to split in-stock items across Cape Town (35%) and Johannesburg DC(65%). Leadtime orders are to be delivered to the DC specified in the order and will be provided to you on the Seller Portal.

Step 5.1: Pick your logistics options

There are four options currently available: own delivery, delivery via 3rd party Courier, delivery via Takealot Preferred Courier or a mixture of any of these. The first three are explored below.

Own Delivery

You will be required to manually book all deliveries and collections. Late bookings, deliveries and other non-compliant actions will be your responsibility for all four logistics options.

Third-party Courier (“3PL”)

You will be required to manually book all deliveries and collections. Late bookings, deliveries and other non-compliant actions will be your responsibility.

Takealot Preferred Courier

Sign-up for a Takealot Preferred Courier account. You will be required to allocate shipments to the relevant courier via our Booking System, at which point the courier will book the delivery on your behalf. Late bookings, deliveries and other non-compliant actions will be your responsibility.

For more information on Preferred Couriers, please click here.

Step 6: Book your delivery & track receiving of your shipment

To book your shipment for delivery, you will be required to use the Booking System. The system can be accessed from the Seller Portal during the creation of your shipment (see images below) or via this link: https://takealot.za.adaptris.com/wbs/ 

You will require first-time login details for your first visit to the system. These details should be emailed you to 2 business days after your Marketplace Seller Account was created. Check your Spam, Junk and Trash folders to ensure you have received your temporary login details to reset your password. If you are experiencing login issues, please reach out to Seller Support immediately to check whether you have been registered.

Please find the User Training Guides below. It is important to follow the guide that suits your current logistics operations - the workflow for Sellers with Preferred Courier accounts differs to that of Sellers who opt to deliver themselves or via a 3rd party courier service. Start with the Account Setup deck and follow the flow guides found at the end to understand your next learning step.

Guide 1

How to set up your account

Guide 2

How to book a delivery for your driver or third-party courier

Guide 3

How to book a delivery using a Takealot Preferred Courier

Guide 4

How to reschedule a missed booking

Guide 5

How to manage and collect inbound exceptions, returns and removal orders

Guide 6

Bookings System FAQs

Tracking your shipment

Once you have booked your delivery, you will be able to track the following:

Step 6.1: Physical requirements for acceptable delivery

Ontime Arrival
For on-time arrival at the DC, an arrival window of 30 min before and 15 min after expected ETA is allowed i.e. booking time slot start time.

Thus, for a 9:00am booking, if the driver arrives anytime between 8:30am and 9:15am the driver will be allowed into the yard. For arrival earlier than 08:30, the driver must wait to gain access to the yard and for arrival later than 9:15am the delivery will be subject to a full rejection at Takealot’s discretion.

Physical receipt & paperwork requirements

The Vendor/Courier arriving at the gate is required to present their booking reference with barcode to the security guard to gain access to the DC queuing lane, where the driver will wait until the yard marshal directs him to the assigned DC door for unloading. This will be downloadable from the Booking System once the delivery is confirmed.

Upon arrival at the DC door for unloading the Takealot DC Receiving staff will verify the paperwork and match the booked PO(s) vs. PO(s) on the load. Only PO(s) booked for delivery will be accepted, un-booked PO(s) will be rejected at the receiving door. Note: On multiple PO delivery from the same vendor. Stock in cartons should not be packed mixed across various PO’s. One PO per master carton, with multiple cartons per PO if required. Please take note of the following regarding labels and paperwork:

Self-Delivery

1. Apply Marketplace Product Labels to individual products.

2. Pack shipment with Shipping Labels on the boxes.

3. Print 2 x Shipping Notes and place 1 inside one of the boxes - mark the box.

4. Book delivery and print out Booking Confirmation.

5. At Receiving the team will sign the Shipping Note as proof of delivery.

Note: Where multiple POs are included in the same delivery, each Shipping Note should be displayed for signing.

Courier Delivery

1. Apply Marketplace Product Labels to individual products.

2. Pack shipment with Shipping Labels on the boxes.

3. Print 2 x Shipping Notes and place one inside one of the boxes - mark the box.

4. Make sure to add your PO Number as a reference when you create a waybill with your courier service.

5. Book delivery and print out Booking Confirmation if you are not making use of a Takealot Preferred Courier.

6. If you sign up with a Takealot Preferred Courier, you need to allocate the PO number to your relevant courier to book after a waybill has been created.

7. At Receiving the team will sign the courier waybill and Shipping Note as proof of delivery. If your PO number is not printed on the courier POD/waybill, the team will not sign courier paperwork.

        Note: Where multiple POs are included in the same delivery, each PO must be referenced on the waybill.

Received shipments

Accepted shipments will be unloaded. The Vender/Courier is required to provide the labour to unload their own parcels in an efficient and timely fashion.  The Vendor/Courier will be given a POD (e.g. stamped and signed copy of the invoice/waybill) for an unchecked delivery. Deliveries will be verified at a sellable unit level during Detail Receiving and any variations will be communicated within the agreed timeframe as per the Terms and Conditions, to the Vendor via the Booking System.

Step 6.2: Rejected shipments and Inbound Exceptions

Refused shipments

In general, these guidelines will be followed for inbound shipments to Takealot Group DC’s that do not meet the listed requirements:

Main rejection criteria

Inbound exception

During the delivery process there are 2 phases in the process where an inbound exception can occur. Firstly, during the unload process. Takealot DC staff will complete a visual inspection of the goods to determine if the delivery is in adherence to the Shipping and Packaging requirements. If an exception is logged during this phase, for example no paperwork, damaged commercial packaging etc. the item will be rejected and an exception will be logged. Secondly, an exception can occur during detail receiving when an item on your delivery does not adhere to our receiving requirements for example damages, wrong barcode, no barcode, barcode smudged, wrong item etc.

Download the User Guide HERE (click through required).


Appendices

Appendices        30

Appendix 1 - Fragile Items        31

Appendix 2 - Liquids        32

Appendix 3 - Sold as Set & Multipiece        33

Appendix 4 - Perforated Packaging        36

Appendix 5 - Apparel, Fabric, Plush and Textiles        36

Appendix 6 - Packaging Toys and Baby Units        38

Appendix 7 - Powders, Pellets and Granular        39

Appendix 8 - Sharp Objects        40

Appendix 9 - Small Objects        41

Appendix 10 - Jewellery, Watches & High-Value Items        42

Appendix 11 - Non-conforming/large Items        43


Appendix 1 - Fragile Items

Examples:

  • Glass
  • China
  • Clocks
  • Mirrors
  • Picture frames

Packaging materials:

  • Boxes
  • Dunnage

Preparation steps:

  1. Individually place or wrap the unit in protective bubble wrap and/or place product in the box.
  2. The unit must be able to pass the drop test on a hard surface without breaking.
  3. Place scannable barcode on outside of packaged unit.

Tips:

  • Wrap multiple units individually to prevent them from damaging one another within their package. E.g. in a set of four wine glasses, each individual wine glass must be wrapped
  • Box fragile units with six solid sides, so the unit is not exposed in any way

IMPORTANT!

Products that expire and are contained in packaging that requires additional prep, such as glass jars or bottles, must be prepped to ensure that the expiration date is accessible for TAL associates during the receive process.

ALLOWED

NOT ALLOWED

Unit contains glass that is not protected


Appendix 2 - Liquids

Examples:

  • Lotions
  • Soap bottles
  • Spray bottles

Packaging materials:

  • Double sealed lids or
  • Polybag
  • Shrink wrap bag

Preparation steps:

  1. Ensure the lid is tightly fastened
  2. If the product is double sealed, you need not package it further
  3. If there is no double seal, consider using a shrink wrap bag OR If it is an oddly shaped container, use a sealed polybag and attach a suffocation warning
  4. Make sure the barcode is scannable without opening or unwrapping the unit

Tips:

  • Make sure your products have a double-seal or safety seal
  • Make sure your packaged units can pass a 1m drop test onto a hard surface without breaking.

IMPORTANT!

Products that expire and are contained in packaging that requires additional prep, such as glass jars or bottles, must be prepped to ensure that the expiration date is accessible for TAL associates during the receive process.

ALLOWED

NOT ALLOWED


Appendix 3 - Sold as Set & Multipiece

Examples:

  • Multi-piece furniture
  • value packs
  • Book sets
  • DVDsets

Packaging materials:

  • Packaging that can group the products in an inseparable manner; or
  • Box carton for large/heavy items
  • Big "Sold as Set" or "Ready to Ship" sticker
  • All “Sold as Set” or “Multi-piece Units” must adhere to packaging regulations as stipulated in each relevant product category.

Items/units that are sets must be marked as sets on their packaging along with a single Takealot Marketplace Product Label. Add a label to the item/unit that states that the products are to be received and sold as a single unit. For example, “Sold as set” or “This is a set. Do not separate.”

If the set’s dimensions are greater than 0.5m x 0.5m x 0.5m and/or has a maximum weight of more than 20kg, these items will need to be packaged together in a single outer carton, clearly marked “Sold as set” with a barcode on the outside of the box.

Maximum weight allowed into the DC for any set is 70kg with a maximum allowed length of 3m.

Preparation steps:

  1. Package the individual products into a single box.
  2. Affix a “Sold as Set” or “Ready to Ship” label to the outside of the box.
  3. Apply the Unique Marketplace Barcode to the outside of the box.Make sure the barcode is scannable without opening or unwrapping the unit.

ALLOWED

Hanging chair placed in master box with all loose pieces

NOT ALLOWED

Hanging chair pieces loose and oddly shaped making it difficult to store

Aircon pieces loose and not held together or marked - these may get separated at picking

Exceeds maximum length of 0.5 and must be boxed together in a single carton.

Products can easily be separated


Appendix 4 - Perforated Packaging

Examples:

  • toy boxes
  • gift boxes
  • display boxes

Packaging materials:

  • Poly bag
  • Shrink wrap

Preparation steps:

  1. Place the unit in a transparent bag and seal the bag or shrink wrap the unit
  2. Add a suffocation warning
  3. Make sure the barcode is scannable without opening or unwrapping the unit.

Tips:

  • If the unit is packaged in a box with an opening, which could cause the unit to get dirty or damaged during handling, it needs to be covered in a poly bag.
  • All “Sold as Set” or “Multi-piece Units” must adhere to packaging regulations as stipulated each relevant product category.

ALLOWED

NOT ALLOWED

Unit is partially exposed to dust and dirt

Appendix 5 - Apparel, Fabric, Plush and Textiles

Examples:

  • toy boxes
  • gift boxes
  • display boxes

Packaging materials:

  • Poly bag
  • Shrink wrap
  • Cardboard footprint

Preparation steps:

  1. Place the unit in a transparent bag and seal the bag or shrink wrap the unit (minimum of 0.038mm).
  2. Add a suffocation warning.
  3. Make sure the barcode is scannable without opening or unwrapping the unit.

Tips:

  • Ensure entire plush unit is sealed (no exposed surfaces) to prevent damage
  • Textiles are made of cloth or fabric and can be damaged by dust or humidity
  • Plush units, such as stuffed toys and puppets, should be packaged so they can’t be damaged

ALLOWED

NOT ALLOWED


Appendix 6 - Packaging Toys and Baby Units

Examples:

  • toys
  • bibs
  • baby seats
  • teething rings

Packaging materials:

  • Poly bag or
  • Shrink wrap
  • Suffocation warning or suffocation stickers

Preparation steps:

  1. Place individual units in transparent sealed bags or shrink wrap (minimum of 0.038mm) clearly marked with a suffocation warning label.
  2. Seal the bag to protect it from damage or dust.
  3. Make sure the barcode is scannable without opening or unwrapping the unit.

Tips:

  • Ensure entire plush unit is sealed (no exposed surfaces) to prevent damage
  • Don’t allow bag or shrink wrap to protrude more than 7 cm past the dimensions of the product

ALLOWED

Units are protected by a polybag

NOT ALLOWED

Units are exposed to dust


Appendix 7 - Powders, Pellets and Granular

Examples:

  • powders
  • bean bags
  • bath salts

Packaging materials:

  • Poly bag or
  • Shrink wrap
  • Suffocation warning or suffocation stickers

Preparation steps:

  1. Place individual units in transparent sealed bags or shrink wrap (minimum of 0.038mm) clearly marked with a suffocation warning label.
  2. Seal the bag to protect it from damage or dust.
  3. Make sure the barcode is scannable without opening or unwrapping the unit.

Tips:

  • Make sure your packaged units can pass a 1m drop test onto a hard surface without breaking
  • Don’t allow bag or shrink wrap to protrude more than 7 cm past the dimensions of the product
  • Don’t send in a package where the unit is exposed
  • Pellets, powders and granular products are dry goods that are pourable and can cause damage during shipping and when stored.

ALLOWED

Unit has been wrapped

NOT ALLOWED

Unit is not wrapped


Appendix 8 - Sharp Objects

Examples:

  • knives
  • kitchen utensils
  • hammers
  • scissors

Packaging materials:

  • Boxes
  • Dunnage

Preparation steps:

  1. Place or wrap the unit in protective bubble wrap or a protective box, so that the packaging completely covers any exposed edges.
  2. Make sure the barcode is scannable without opening or unwrapping the unit.

Tips:

  • Use blister packs when possible. The blister pack must cover the sharp edge and be securely fastened to the unit so that the unit does not slide around within the blister pack
  • Secure the sharp unit to a footprint with a plastic fastener or similar restraint and wrap the unit in plastic if possible
  • Ensure the unit cannot cut through the packaging
  • Don’t pack sharp products in unsafe moulded

footprints with plastic covering or cardboard/plastic sheaths alone unless the sheath is of a rigid, durable plastic and secured to the product

ALLOWED

NOT ALLOWED

Product may cause harm during handling


Appendix 9 - Small Objects

Examples:

  • earings
  • key chains
  • flash drives

Packaging materials:

  • Boxes
  • Poly bag
  • Poly bag and box (if poly bag is not sufficient)

Preparation steps:

  1. Place the unit in a transparent bag with a suffocation warning.
  2. Seal the bag to protect it from damage or dust.
  3. If the unit doesn’t pass the drop test, use a box.
  4. Make sure the barcode is scannable without opening or unwrapping the unit.

Tips:

  • Any product where the largest side is less than 5cm (the width of a credit card) needs to be packaged in a poly bag
  • If the product is too small to accommodate a label; bagging the unit will enable the unique barcode to be fully scannable without wrapping over the edges of the product
  • The poly bagged unit(s) must be delivered in a master carton with minimum dimensions 150mm (all sides)

ALLOWED


Appendix 10 - Jewellery, Watches & High-Value Items

Examples:

  • Jewellery bags
  • Jewellery boxes
  • Loose Jewellery
  • Watches
  • High-value Items

Packaging materials:

  • Boxes
  • Poly bag
  • Poly bag and box (if poly bag is not sufficient)
  • Seals

Preparation steps:

  1. Place the unit in a transparent bag with a suffocation warning.
  2. Seal the bag to protect it from damage or dust.
  3. If the unit doesn’t pass the drop test, use a box.
  4. Make sure the barcode is scannable without opening or unwrapping the unit.

Tips:

  • Jewellery must be packaged in appropriately sized sealed boxes with a UPC or SKU and a product description label so that the unit cannot be damaged or cause unsafe conditions by having the material exposed during the fulfilment process.

Pouches:

  • Place a product description label on the side with the greatest surface area
  • The bag should be appropriate for the size of the pouch. Do not force a pouch into a bag that is too small or place it in a bag where it can easily shift around
  • The edges of large bags are more likely to get caught and tear exposing contents to dust or dirt.

Boxed Jewellery, Watches & High-value Items:

  • Boxes with high value jewellery must be sealed as to show the box has not been tampered with. (refer to image)
  • Boxes made of material that is easily cleaned do not have to be bagged. Sleeves are sufficient protection from dust
  • Boxes made of fabric-like material that is susceptible to dust or tearing must be bagged or boxed individually with the barcode displayed prominently
  • Protective sleeve or bag should be only slightly larger than unit
  • Box sleeves should be snug enough or secured in such a way that they will not slide off and the barcode must be visible with the sleeve in place
  • Unique product barcodes should be attached to box if possible; they can be attached to sleeves if secured

ALLOWED

Barcode can be scanned

High-value items have a seal

NOT ALLOWED

Barcode cannot be scanned

Appendix 11 - Non-conforming/large Items

Is the product large, oddly shaped and more difficult to package or store in bulk?

Examples:

  • Hanging chairs
  • Suitcases
  • Sofas
  • Chairs
  • Aircon units
  • Bed Bases
  • Mattresses

Packaging materials:

  • Boxes
  • Double-layered plastic wrapping (40 micron), or bubble wrap.

Any large item needs to be packaged in a manner that will be suitable to withstand a warehouse with the barcode on the outside of the bag/box. All merchants must wrap large items/units with double-layered plastic wrapping (40 micron), or bubble wrap.

Beds and mattresses may not be sold as sets. These need to be listed and sold as separate offers on takealot.com. These must be wrapped in thick double layer plastic (40 micron) around the mattress/unit OR may be boxed. This will also protect the unit from damage by tearing, dirt, dust or liquid during the fulfilment process.

All curtain rails, curtain rods and blinds must be packaged and shipped in a carton tube, with the barcode on the outside of the tube.

Generators and UPS items heavier than 80 kg must be packed and shipped by being strapped to a small pallet to ensure safe storage and handling.

.

ALLOWED

Hanging chair placed in master box with all loose pieces

Aircon set boxed, held together and marked as “1 of 2” and “2 of 2”

NOT ALLOWED

Hanging chair pieces loose and oddly shaped making it difficult to store

Aircon pieces loose and not held together or marked - these may get separated at picking

Appendix 12 - Consumer Electronics

Please see the Consumer Electronics Products List for a comprehensive list of products

Examples:

  • Laptops
  • Cellphones,
  • Cameras,
  • Electronic
  • Accessories,
  • Memory Cards

Packaging materials:

  • Boxes
  • Poly bag
  • Poly bag and box (if poly bag is not sufficient)
  • Jiffy Lite envelopes
  • Tamper Proof seals
  • Fragile stickers
  • Security tape
  • Blister Packaging

Refer to the Consumer Electronics Products List to view minimum packaging requirements on a product level.

  1. Ensure the product is packaged in secure packaging that can withstand multiple touch points and a warehouse environment. This means the product is in tamper-proof packaging and/or

in new and unopened original packaging.

Note: Refurbished products don’t need to be in the original packaging but should still be packaged in such a way as to protect the item from being damaged in transit to our warehouse and to the customer

  1. Add a tamper-proof seal or security seal where packaging is not tamper-proof.
  2. Make sure that the 45 UP Product Label is scannable without the need to open or unwrap the unit.

ALLOWED

The products are in original packaging and the packaging is tamper-proof OR secured with security tape.

NOT ALLOWED

There is no seal or tamper-proof tape.

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