Dunnage
Dunnage refers to the foundational packaging included in every pallet of cans and ends, This includes can and end pallets, top frames, and tier sheets. Dunnage material often varies by product or manufacturer and may be plastic, wood, cardboard, or paper. It is important to receive and sort dunnage by like-type and manufacturer for a smooth return.
Can Pallet
Top Frame
Tier Sheet
End Pallet
Returnable vs. One Way Dunnage
The dunnage you receive will vary by vendor and product type. Returnable dunnage is billed as a deposit on your invoice and is fully refundable upon return to the seller. In general, returnable dunnage will be plastic and from a domestic manufacturer while one way dunnage will be wooden or plastic with import markings. Only dunnage that is billed as a deposit is eligible for return.
PRO TIP: Separate and stack your dunnage as it's used to avoid confusion over return eligibility.
Returnable
Ball Corporation dunnage is shipped with any purchase of custom printed cans, or full height pallets of brite (blank) cans. The color of the dunnage will typically be grey and include the Ball logo however there are variations that may occur as new dunnage is introduced over time. All returnable dunnage will be plastic material.
One Way
One way dunnage does not conform to any standard. Typically one way dunnage is wooden pallets with paper tier sheets; it may also be plastic pallets and tier sheets with import markings. One way dunnage may be recycled, domestic pallets. In these instances, any identifying logos or marketing will be sanded off or marked through.
Preparing your return
Dunnage returns will be accepted as less-than-truckload (LTL) shipments or as dedicated truckloads. The decision as to when to return is determined by the buyer but should be done within 12 months of receiving to ensure a full refund.
A separate dunnage return must be made for each can manufacturer.
Example: Ball Corporation dunnage should be returned separate from American Canning dunnage.
Can Pallets
Can pallets should be stacked and banded in groups of 11. When shipping via dedicated truck, pallet groups can be double stacked allowing for transport of 22 pallets per skid.
Top Frames
Top frames should be stacked and banded in groups of 50 on a pallet that is also eligible for return. Don’t forget to count this bottom pallet in your quantity of items being returned!
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Tier Sheets
Tier sheets should be stacked and banded at 22 inches tall. By measurement, each inch is approximately 38-40 tier sheets. Tier sheets may be the base of any stack with pallets or top frames, but they should never be the top of a stack.
End Pallets
End pallets should be stacked and banded in groups of 11. When shipping via dedicated truck, pallets can be double stacked allowing for transport of 22 pallets per skid.
Loading the Truck
Dunnage items are surprisingly heavy. It is important to be aware of this when booking and loading your shipment.
Less-than-truckload (LTL) returns should be no more than six total skids measuring 96" or less in height and weighing no more than 15,000 pounds.
Dedicated truck returns should be balanced (as shown), containing up to 22 skids, measuring 102" or less in height and weighing no more than 45,000 pounds total.
My dunnage is prepped, what’s next?
When your dunnage is stacked, banded, and ready to ship, follow these steps:
Wait, Then Confirm
Wait to receive a confirmation e-mail from our team which includes verification for the quantity of dunnage and a list of available return appointments. When received, select your preferred appointment.
Book & Ship
Schedule a freight shipment based on your return appointment. If you’re new to shipping freight, we recommend working with Brew Movers.
Submit the BOL
Submit a copy of the Bill of Lading (BOL) to American Canning.
Ball Return Locations
Return Facilities
Receiving Your Credit
The reimbursement process can be lengthy – up to 16 weeks depending on manufacturer.
All dunnage is inspected upon return at the receiving facility. If deemed to be in good condition, a full refund will be issued. Damaged and/or dirty dunnage however will be charged a processing fee, outlined in full on the return receipt.
American Canning will issue aTULC dunnage credits as quickly as possible, according to your preferred reimbursement method (account credit or check). On average, it takes 4-6 weeks to received aTULC deposits and 12-16 weeks for all other types of dunnage returns.
Dunnage Return Forms
Frequently Answered Questions
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