Quick answer: Case pack configuration is your product's packaging hierarchy: eaches (what shoppers buy), inner packs (small groups stores can order), case packs (shipping cartons) and pallets (cases stacked TI by HI). Each level that's ordered or invoiced typically needs its own GTIN, quantities must match the retailer's item file exactly, and changing units per case requires a new GTIN. Mismatches cause compliance chargebacks.
Key takeaways
- Each → inner → case → pallet.
- TI = cases per layer; HI = layers per pallet.
- New quantity = new GTIN.
- Physical shipment, item file and ASN must match.
The hierarchy
SPS Commerce lays out the levels clearly in its case pack configuration guide:
| Level | What it is | Example (branded tumbler) |
|---|---|---|
| Each | The single consumer unit | 1 tumbler in a retail box |
| Inner pack | A small group of eaches (a "warehouse pack") | 6 tumblers |
| Case pack | The shipping carton (vendor or master pack) | 4 inners = 24 tumblers |
| Pallet | Cases stacked TI × HI | 10 cases per layer × 5 layers = 50 cases |
How to choose quantities
Case pack size is a trade-off between your cost and the retailer's flexibility. A big case is cheaper per unit to pack and ship but forces stores to take more than they may sell. Smaller inners let stores reorder in quantities that match their sales.
Questions to ask before you set quantities:
- How many units does a store sell per week?
- Does the retailer specify case or inner quantities in its vendor guide?
- Does the case fit on shelves or display fixtures if it's used as a display?
- How much does the full case weigh? Heavy cases slow stores and risk damage.
- Does the case pattern fill the pallet efficiently?
Pallet configuration
Design cases to stack cleanly on a standard pallet without overhang, with heavier cases low and an interlocking pattern for stability. SPS notes that an inaccurate TI, like declaring a 10×5 pattern but shipping 8×6, is a common compliance defect. Freight costs also depend on density; SPS notes that the NMFC moved many commodities to density-based classes in July 2025, so empty space inside cases now costs more.
GTINs at every level
Each packaging level that's ordered, priced or invoiced generally gets its own GTIN, built from a GS1 Company Prefix licensed through GS1 US. Case-level codes are often GTIN-14, and some retailers specifically require GTIN-14 on cases. If you change how many units go in a case, you need a new GTIN for that case. For shelf-facing packaging details, see our retail-ready packaging guide and our guide to selling to big-box retailers.
Common mistakes that trigger chargebacks
- Wrong pack quantity compared with the purchase order or item file
- Barcode mismatch, such as a case labeled for 12 that holds 10
- Inaccurate TI/HI compared with the item setup
- ASN mismatch: the advance ship notice doesn't match what's on the truck
- Unstable pallets that tip or need rework
- Missing or unreadable labels
Retailers often charge fees per defect, per purchase order. Our retailer chargebacks guide covers prevention in detail.
Keep data and boxes in sync
Your item file (dimensions, weights, quantities and GTINs at each level) has to match reality. When you send an EDI 856 advance ship notice, carton and pallet details must match the physical shipment. Measure real cartons, weigh real cases, and update your item data before any packaging change ships. Our EDI guide explains the documents.
Packaging that's ready for the shelf
Affogato Bean produces branded merch for cafés and multi-location programs. Talk to us about quantities, packaging needs and timelines.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an inner pack and a case pack?
An inner pack groups a small number of individual units (eaches) so stores can order smaller quantities. A case pack, also called a master or vendor pack, is the shipping carton that holds inner packs or eaches.
What does TI/HI mean on a pallet?
TI is the number of cases on one layer of a pallet; HI is the number of layers. A 10x5 TI/HI pallet holds 50 cases.
Does each packaging level need its own barcode?
Typically yes. Each distinct packaging level that is ordered, priced or invoiced gets its own GTIN, and any change in the quantity inside a case requires a new GTIN.
Sources
- SPS Commerce, “Case Pack Configuration: How to Build a Pack That Works at Retail.”
- GS1 US, “GS1 US.”
- CData, “EDI for Manufacturers: X12 850, 856, and 810.”
Sources checked October 2026. Statistics are reported as published by each source.