Packing Standards
Clear packing standards for wholesale fresh cut flowers,
designed to ensure consistent presentation, reduce damage,
and support efficient export handling.
This guide covers bunching rules, sleeves, carton loading,
labeling requirements, and mixed box ratios for repeatable,
low-risk wholesale orders.
Core Packing Rules
Standardize these rules before production to reduce bruising, mis-sorts, and receiving friction.
Bunch & sleeves
- Lock bunch count (stems per bunch) per SKU
- Select sleeve type based on bloom sensitivity
- Maintain uniform presentation for shop handling
Carton loading
- Avoid head-to-head friction during loading
- Distribute weight evenly to prevent crushing
- Add protective layers for delicate heads
Labels & sorting
- Carton label fields must match packing list
- Use area or event labels where applicable
- Show clear carton counts and item codes
Recommended Carton Label Fields
The simplest way to avoid delays is to keep carton labels aligned with packing lists and invoice lines.
| Field | Why it matters | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Variety / Color | Prevents wrong-SKU receiving | Rose / Red |
| Stem length | Ensures consistent display height | 60 cm |
| Grade | Aligns quality expectation | Premium |
| Bunch count | Speeds counting and sorting | 10 stems / bunch |
| Carton no. / total | Supports reconciliation and claims | 3 / 12 |
💡 Tip: missing stem length or grade on carton labels is the most common cause of receiving delays.
Mixed Box Rules
Mixed boxes work best when ratios are defined and items are compatible in handling and temperature needs.
How to define ratios
- Define ratios by stems or percentage per variety
- Separate must-have items from flexible substitutes
- Protect hero items with stable positioning
Compatibility checks
- Group items with similar handling requirements
- Avoid placing delicate heads against hard stems
- Use protective layers where needed
Best practice: mixed boxes work best when treated as a defined product — not a last-minute combination.
FAQ
These are the most frequent causes of damage and receiving complaints. Most can be avoided by locking rules before production.
Issue: bruising or crushed heads
Fix: avoid over-compression, use head protection, and load cartons evenly to prevent pressure points.
Issue: wrong items in carton
Fix: align carton labels to packing lists and use clear item codes and carton sequencing (e.g. 3/12).
Issue: mixed box confusion
Fix: define ratios, pre-approve substitutes, and label cartons clearly with a contents summary.
Issue: receiving takes too long
Fix: lock bunch counts and label fields so staff can sort quickly without opening every carton.
🚀 Use consistent packing rules — reduce damage and speed up receiving
Download the packing checklist and share your label fields and mixed box needs. We’ll review and confirm before packing.