Packaging General Requirements PDF

Specification Spec.
no: IOS-P-0010
Date: 2017-06-21
Packaging – general requirements Version no: AA-171373-17
IKEA of Sweden AB
Issued by Signature Authorised by Signature Replaces:

Allan Dickner, Vladimir Brajkovic, AA-171373-16
Acting Packaging Manager Product
Development Manager, Requirement &
IKEA of Sweden Compliance,
IKEA of Sweden
Packaging – general requirements
Contents
This specification describes IKEA regulations and instructions for the design of packaging
solutions, the selection and quality of packaging materials, the marking of packaging, neat & clean
packaging, low handling material and test methods. This specification also defines standard unit
load dimensions and fixation requirements.
About this specification

This specification establishes a set of minimum requirements for the design of packaging
throughout IKEA.
The requirements stated in this specification complement and have priority over all other
Packaging Requirements regarding establishing minimum requirements. Stated requirements
are valid throughout the IKEA supply chain.
All symbols and self declaration templates applicable in this specification are also available in
the Supplier Portal.
This specification is divided into a requirement part, where all requirements are stated, and an
appendix part containing test methods and supporting documents.
Implementation of changes
Changes in this specification, version no AA-171373-17, shall be implemented in production at
the latest from packaging date stamp 1801 (year 2018 week 01).
Products having a packaging date stamp earlier than 1801 shall be shipped to IKEA before
shipping products compliant with this version of the specification.
The following requirements shall be implemented by the stated date stamps:

Table 1 Date stamps in IOS-P-0010
Requirement Date stamp
Grace period for the FSC requirement. 1835 (year 2018 week 35)
The following requirements are included for informational purposes only and will be re-
confirmed in coming version of the specification. The specification shall be seen as implemented
and confirmed as such even though these requirements have not been secured.
Table 2 Date stamps in IOS-P-0010
Requirement Date stamp
All paper material used as packaging material shall come from 1935 (year 2019 week 35
More Sustainable Sources (MSS)
No plastic material coming from 100% virgin fossil based raw 2035 (year 2020 week 35)
material is allowed for packaging purposes.
© Inter IKEA Systems B.V. 2004-2017 Page 1 (86)

Specification Spec. no: IOS-P-0010
Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
Table of contents
1 Supplier Information Responsibility ..................................................................................... 3
2 General Tolerances ............................................................................................................... 3
3 Dangerous Goods ................................................................................................................. 3
4 Approved Packaging Materials ............................................................................................. 4
5 Packaging Materials Quality Requirements .......................................................................... 9
5.1 Corrugated Cardboard Quality ...................................................................................... 9
5.2 Load Bearer Quality .................................................................................................... 11
5.3 Plastic Material Quality ............................................................................................... 11
5.3.1 Shrink Film Quality ..................................................................................................... 11
5.3.2 Stretch Film Quality .................................................................................................... 12
5.3.3 Plastic Bag Quality...................................................................................................... 12
5.3.4 Adhesive Tape Quality ................................................................................................ 13
5.3.5 Strap Quality ............................................................................................................. 13
5.4 Inside Filler................................................................................................................. 13
6 Marking of Packaging Materials .......................................................................................... 14
6.1 General Placement of Marking .................................................................................... 14
6.2 Marking Standard for Identification of Packaging Materials........................................ 14
6.3 Suffocation warning symbol........................................................................................ 15
6.4 The Green Dot ............................................................................................................. 16
6.5 Marking Standard for Japan ........................................................................................ 17
6.6 Marking of Corrugated Cardboard Quality ................................................................... 18
6.7 Marking of Load Bearer Quality ................................................................................... 19
6.8 Marking of Corrugated Cardboard Packaging Construction ......................................... 20
6.9 ISPM 15 – International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures ................................. 20
6.10 Other Symbols ............................................................................................................ 21
6.11 Other Markings ........................................................................................................... 21
7 Consumer Packaging .......................................................................................................... 21
8 Multi-Pack Packaging ......................................................................................................... 22
9 Unit Load Transport Packaging........................................................................................... 22
9.1 Top and Bottom Protection ......................................................................................... 22
9.2 Corner Protection ........................................................................................................ 23
9.3 Unit Load Fixation ....................................................................................................... 23
10 Low Handling Material ........................................................................................................ 24
10.1 Paper Pallet ................................................................................................................ 24
10.2 Loading Ledge ............................................................................................................. 25
10.3 Plastic foot .................................................................................................................. 25
10.4 Feet Pattern ................................................................................................................ 26
10.5 Load Bearer Sheet....................................................................................................... 28
11 Unit Load ............................................................................................................................ 29
11.1 Unit Load Types .......................................................................................................... 29
11.2 Modules and Storage Units ......................................................................................... 31
11.3 Filling solution ............................................................................................................ 31
11.3.1 Top Filling solution ..................................................................................................... 31
11.3.2 Length and Side Filling Solution ................................................................................... 32
11.4 Unit Load Stacking Capacity ........................................................................................ 32
11.5 Unit Load Stability Requirements ................................................................................ 34
12 Neat & Clean Packaging Requirements ............................................................................... 35
12.1 Neat & Clean Requirements for Consumer Packages................................................... 35
12.2 Neat & Clean Requirements for Transport Packaging .................................................. 38
13 Definitions .......................................................................................................................... 41
14 References ......................................................................................................................... 43
Appendix A: Test methods .............................................................................................................
Appendix B: Self declaration for packaging materials ....................................................................
Appendix C: Paper Pallet Standards ...............................................................................................
Appendix D: Unit Load Requirement when using Air Transportation ..............................................
Appendix E: General Tolerances Packaging Construction ...............................................................
Appendix F: How to fulfil IKEA requirement on More Sustainable Sources ....................................
Summary of Changes in version 17 ................................................................................................

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
Background
IKEA packaging ambition is to contribute to IKEA Democratic design by:
• protecting what it sells and selling what it protects through the different stages of the
handling process, from the supplier all the way to the customers home.
• inspiring the customers and simplifying the buying process by being an information
carrier for the product.
• developing packaging solutions that will contain the minimum adequate amount of
packaging material, so that the packaging is correctly adapted to its purpose.
• developing packaging solution in order to minimize volume to enable efficient distribution
and enable easy handling.
• producing handling materials with good design and good function at a low price.
• giving priority to packaging materials derived from renewable or recycled raw material.
• using materials that are easy to separate in order to enable the end-user to sort the
materials at the packaging end of life.
• following present and new rules along with laws concerning producer responsibility for
packaging and packaging waste locally and globally.
1 Supplier Information Responsibility

In order to comply with environmental reporting legislations, the usage of packaging material
per individual packaging part shall be defined in the Dimension Weight and Packaging (DWP)
application by the supplier. It is the supplier’s responsibility to provide accurate information
(part type, material type, dimensions, weight, marking, etc.) in Actual DWP for the supplied
packaging. This shall be done always when a new or updated packaging solution is introduced
and when the weight/dimensions/materials etc. of the packaging are changed. As a minimum it
shall be reviewed on a yearly basis. Information shall be registered in Actual DWP before
dispatch from the supplier. The tolerance on weight is +/- 5% unless specified in the IKEA
product documentation. If weight deviation is more than 5% a re-measurement and update of
Actual DWP is required.
Accuracy of DWP information is essential in order for IKEA to fulfil producer responsibility
obligations. Inaccurate information can result in heavy business consequences for IKEA and its
supplier.
2 General Tolerances
In all packaging documentation, dimensions follow the ISO 2768-1 tolerance standard (see
Appendix E: General Tolerances Packaging Construction) unless otherwise stated by IKEA
product documentation.
3 Dangerous Goods
Some products are dangerous goods and have to be handled, packaged, labelled and
transported accordingly. Dangerous goods regulations are applicable and shall be followed.
Dangerous goods are materials or items with hazardous properties which, if not properly
controlled, present potential hazard to human health and safety, infrastructure and/or their
means of transportation. The regulations for transport of dangerous goods are built on the UN
model regulation.
One example of a product that is dangerous goods are Lithium-ion battery (>20 Wh/cell or
>100 Wh/battery). The UN number for Lithium-ion battery is 3480 or 3481 when packed with
equipment.
Note: Suppliers shall not define which goods are deemed dangerous. Definition and
classification of dangerous goods is specified by the IKEA product documentation.
Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
4 Approved Packaging Materials

Table 3 lists the approved packaging materials at IKEA. No other materials are allowed as
packaging materials. Packaging parts of different material categories are not allowed to be glued
together in any part of the packaging construction due to material recycling. This requirement
refers to packaging parts of different material, but display windows/blister and labels in general
are excluded from this requirement.
IOS-MAT-0010 Chemical Compounds and Substances is valid for each packaging material, since
packaging is seen as a part of the product. Additional requirements for packaging materials are
available in Table 3. Documentation, certificates, self declarations, and test reports are not
required for packaging materials unless otherwise stated by IKEA.
Table 3. Approved packaging materials

Approved Additional requirements UN/EU Abbre- Symbol
packaging material viation
materials code
Paper containing any kind of Bisphenols,
such as Bisphenol A or Bisphenol S, is not
allowed to be used.
After packaging date stamp 1935 (year
2019 week 35), all paper material used as
packaging material shall come from More
Sustainable Sources (MSS), which is
recycled material or renewable sources from
forests verified as responsibly managed
according to a forest certification system
recognized by IKEA. Wood certified
according to Forest Stewardship Council
(FSC) meets the IKEA requirements for
MSS.
Paper-based
materials
In critical countries (see Appendix F: How to
fulfil IKEA requirement on More Sustainable
Sources) the requirement for corrugated
packaging, paper pallets or load bearers
shall be fulfilled from date stamp 1801
(year 2018 week 01). IKEA suppliers
procuring from IKEA Nominated Packaging
Suppliers (NPS) fulfil this requirement.
When corrugated packaging, paper pallets

or load bearers are procured from a local
packaging supplier (which is not an IKEA
NPS) see Appendix F: How to fulfil IKEA
requirement on More Sustainable Sources.
Totally Chlorine Free (TCF) or Elementary
Corrugated
Chlorine Free (ECF) paper.
fibreboard
Corrugated cardboard with plastic tear tape is 20 PAP
(corrugated
allowed. Coated liner is not allowed to be
cardboard)
used. AA-1875081
Non-corrugated
fibreboard (M-
board, Totally Chlorine Free (TCF) or Elementary
21 PAP
honeycomb, Chlorine Free (ECF) paper.
laminated paper,
moulded paper) AA-1875082

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB

materials code
Paper (e.g. Totally Chlorine Free (TCF) or Elementary

22 PAP
tissue) Chlorine Free (ECF) paper.
AA-1875085
Use of these materials as packaging materials
shall be strictly limited.
Wood-based
Wood-based materials shall not come from
materials
intact natural forests unless certified according
to FSC.
Requirement concerning formaldehyde:
E1 or better according to EN 622-5.
Dry-process
fibreboard 50 FOR
For dry-process fibreboard produced in North
(MDF/HDF/LDF)
America, the following applies instead of E1:
CARB-complaint board shall be used. AA-1875092

Hardboard 50 FOR
E1 or better according to EN 622-2.
AA-1875092

OSB 50 FOR
E1 or better according to EN 300.
AA-1875092
Particleboard 50 FOR
For particleboard produced in North America,
the following applies instead of E1: CARB-
compliant board shall be used. AA-1875092
Plywood 50 FOR
For plywood produced in North America, the
following applies instead of E1: CARB-
compliant board shall be used. AA-1875092
Requirement according to ISPM 15, see

Solid wood 50 FOR
section 6.9.
AA-1875092

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB

materials code
All plastic material used as packaging material
shall be recyclable, regardless of quality and
production process.
After packaging date stamp 2035 (year 2020
Plastic
week 35), no plastic material coming from
materials
100% virgin fossil based raw material is
allowed for packaging purposes. IKEAs aim is
to be 100% fossil free by 2025.
It is not allowed to use PVC.
Polyethylene
terephthalate -- 01 PET
(PET)
AA-266992
Polyethylene,
high density (PE- -- 02 PE-HD
HD)
AA-266990
Foamed
No use of HCFC or CFC in foam-blowing,
polyethylene 04 PE-LD
requirements according to IOS-MAT-0010.
(PE)
AA-266991
Same requirements as foamed polyethylene

Expanded
PE.
polyethylene 04 PE-LD
Use of this material as packaging material
(EPE)
AA-266991
Polyethylene,
low density (PE- -- 04 PE-LD
LD)
AA-266991
Same requirements as foamed polyethylene

Expanded
PE.
polypropylene 05 PP
Use of this material as packaging material
(EPP)
AA-266994
Polypropylene
-- 05 PP
(PP)
AA-266994
Use of EPS only applicable for appliances
Polystyrene
range during a limited time.
(PS),
Expanded 06 PS
All EPS shall be free from flame retardants,
polystyrene
see IOS-MAT-0010 for a complete list and
(EPS) AA-266995
levels.

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB

materials code
Polyester,
Polyamide (PA),
-- 07 O
Polylactic acid
(PLA)
AA-266988
The use of metal staples/clips in packaging is
Metal/Sheet only allowed for fixating fitting bags to the
metals product when required according to the
Packaging Requirement.
Carbon steel -- 40 FE
AA-1875086
Aluminium -- 41 ALU
AA-1875075
Textile
materials
Maximum 300 ppm Formaldehyde according to

100% cotton 60 TEX
test method in IOS-MAT-0010.
AA-1875089

Linen 60 TEX
AA-1875089

Jute 61 TEX
AA-1875090
Glass
Colourless -- 70 GL
AA-1875077
Green -- 71 GL
AA-1875079
Brown -- 72 GL
AA-1875080

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB

materials code
Adhesives
Hot-melt
-- -- -- --
adhesive
PVA glue -- -- -- --
Starch-based
-- -- -- --
glue (e.g. corn)
Inks
The ink shall not contain mercury or lead.
Printing inks -- -- --
Solvent-borne inks are not allowed.
Marking of combined materials shall be done according to the material that stands for the
largest amount in the material combination (in weight).
Note: It is not allowed to include biocides in the package.
Note: It is not allowed to use silica gel bags or any bags of anti-moisture compounds.
Note: Solvent-borne inks are allowed to be used for printing on plastic materials.
For all packaging materials the following requirements concerning heavy metals shall be
fulfilled:
• Packaging materials shall not contain intentionally added lead, mercury, cadmium, or
hexavalent chromium, including their compounds.
• The sum of concentration of incidental (contaminant) lead, mercury, cadmium, and
hexavalent chromium in the packaging material shall be less than 100 mg/kg.
These last two requirements replace the requirements in IOS-MAT-0010 for these heavy metals.

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
5 Packaging Materials Quality Requirements

5.1 Corrugated Cardboard Quality
Table 4 shows the minimum requirements for IKEA corrugated cardboard quality codes that shall be met to make sure that the quality of corrugated
cardboard is acceptable. If no IKEA quality code is specified in the Packaging Requirement, then the lowest quality code of each flute type is the
lowest quality allowed as packaging material. It is allowed to use higher quality codes than specified by IKEA but it is not allowed to change the flute
type (for load bearer/top protection/sheet stabilizing a unit load, it is allowed to change flute type). Compliance shall be documented in accordance
with Appendix B: Self declaration for packaging materials, and shall be registered in Connect. All tests of corrugated cardboard shall take place after
the corrugating process, but before the converting process.
Table 4 Corrugated Cardboard (CB) qualities 1

IKEA Code Bending Edgewise Bursting Flat crush Cobb 60 test, Flute Type Thickness (mm) Mottling
stiffness 2 crush test strength test test (FCT) water Coefficient
(Nm) (ECT) (kN/m) (BST) 3 (kPa) absorptiveness of variations
(kPa) 4 (g/m2) (COV on
white
corrugated
board)
ISO 5628 ISO 3037 ISO 2759 ISO 3035 ISO 535 ISO 3034 According to
STFI
method 5
IKEA CB 10 ≥ 0.65 ≥ 3.90 ≥ 600 -- 17-40 E 1.00-1.99 Max 2.5%
IKEA CB 20 ≥ 0.84 ≥ 4.50 ≥ 850 -- 17-40 E 1.00-1.99 Max 2.5%
IKEA CB 25 ≥ 2.10 ≥ 3.20 ≥ 500 ≥ 250 17-40 B 2.00-3.49 Max 2.5%
IKEA CB 30 ≥ 2.50 ≥ 3.90 ≥ 600 ≥ 280 17-40 B 2.00-3.49 Max 2.5%
IKEA CB 40 ≥ 2.80 ≥ 4.30 ≥ 700 ≥ 280 17-40 B 2.00-3.49 Max 2.5%
IKEA CB 50 ≥ 3.10 ≥ 5.00 ≥ 850 ≥ 340 17-40 B 2.00-3.49 Max 2.5%
1
The value is based on the average calculated from 10 measurements.
2
Bending stiffness = MD x CD (MD = Machine direction, CD = Cross direction). Average calculated from 20 measurements (10 on MD/CD).
3
Bursting strength shall be tested on both in and outside. Average calculated from 20 measurements (10 on inside/outside).
4
Cobb 60 shall be tested on both in and outside, average is reported for each side individually.
5
White corrugated board or liner samples to STFI mottling test shall be sent to ITTC Shanghai. 2 pieces, size 200x200 mm per piece, is required.
Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
Table 4 Corrugated Cardboard (CB) qualities 1

IKEA Code Bending Edgewise Bursting Flat crush Cobb 60 test, Flute Type Thickness (mm) Mottling
stiffness 2 crush test strength test test (FCT) water Coefficient
(Nm) (ECT) (kN/m) (BST) 3 (kPa) absorptiveness of variations
(kPa) 4 (g/m2) (COV on
white
corrugated
board)
ISO 5628 ISO 3037 ISO 2759 ISO 3035 ISO 535 ISO 3034 According to
STFI
method 5
IKEA CB 60 ≥ 5.10 ≥ 4.20 ≥ 700 ≥ 200 17-40 C/A 6 3.50-4.59/4.60-5.50 Max 2.5%
IKEA CB 70 ≥ 6.00 ≥ 5.00 ≥ 850 ≥ 270 17-40 C/A6 3.50-4.59/4.60-5.50 Max 2.5%
IKEA CB 80 ≥ 7.40 ≥ 5.60 ≥ 1100 ≥ 270 17-40 C/A6 3.50-4.59/4.60-5.50 Max 2.5%
IKEA CB 90 ≥ 8.40 ≥ 6.50 ≥ 1350 ≥ 330 17-40 C/A6 3.50-4.59/4.60-5.50 Max 2.5%
IKEA CB 100 ≥ 16.00 ≥ 7.40 ≥ 950 -- 17-40 Double wall -- Max 2.5%
IKEA CB 150 ≥ 26.00 ≥ 12.00 ≥ 1900 -- ≤ 40 -- -- Max 2.5%
IKEA CB 230 ≥ 50.00 ≥ 16.00 ≥ 2500 -- ≤ 40 -- -- Max 2.5%
IKEA CB 260 ≥ 75.00 ≥ 20.00 ≥ 4500 -- ≤ 40 -- -- Max 2.5%
6
C/A means either C or A flute.
Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
5.2 Load Bearer Quality

The purpose of a load bearer (LB) is to support the load of products as well as to fixate paper
pallet feet or loading ledges, see Figure 1. This requirement is valid for all kind of load bearers
made of fibre based material.
Figure 1 Load Bearer (LB) sheet.

Table 5 Load bearer (LB) qualities.
IKEA Code Compression Deflection, ΔH Cobb 60 (g/m2) Test Load (kg)
strength (kN) (mm)
ISO 535
IKEA LB 05 ≥ 3 ≤ 3 ≤ 40 1
IKEA LB 10 ≥ 3 ≤ 3 ≤ 40 3
IKEA LB 20 ≥ 3 ≤ 3 ≤ 40 6
IKEA LB 30 ≥ 5 ≤ 2 ≤ 40 10
IKEA LB 40 ≥ 5 ≤ 2 ≤ 40 15
IKEA LB 50 ≥ 5 ≤ 2 ≤ 40 20
Column Test Load (kg), see Table 5, describes the weights used during deflection test to verify
the LB quality.
For test methods of compression strength and deflection, see Appendix A: Test methods 7, IOS-
TM-0037: Load Bearer Compression Test and IOS-TM-0038: Load Bearer Sheet Deflection Test.
5.3 Plastic Material Quality
The term Polyolefin (POF) is a family name for a group of thermoplastic materials and shall not
be used to specify plastic material. A more specific definition shall be used (e.g. PP, PE).
5.3.1 Shrink Film Quality

Table 6 shows the allowed quality for shrink film used as a consumer package. Special
requirements are specified in the Packaging Requirement. If no IKEA quality is specified in the
Packaging Requirement, the minimum quality to use is IKEA SH 10. Shrink film used for goods
fixation and test methods, see section 11.5.
Table 6 Shrink Film (SH) for consumer packages qualities.

IKEA Code Material Puncture Puncture sharp Tear strength Haze (%)
thumb edge edge (mm) MD/TD (N)
(mm)
IKEA SH 10 Polyethylene ≥ 20 ≥ 20 ≥ 25 ≤8
IKEA SH 20 Polyethylene ≥ 30 ≥ 20 ≥ 25 ≤8
IKEA SH 30 Polyethylene ≥ 40 ≥ 30 ≥ 25 ≤ 12
For test method, see IOS-TM-0033: Shrink Film Puncture Test.
7
From now on the reference will be only to test method number, Appendix A: Test methods will not be included.
Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
Table 7 shows recommended shrink film qualities for specific use. Shrink film shall be applied
according to film suppliers instructions/data sheets. All welding shall be performed with good
workmanship.
Table 7 Recommended shrink film for specific use.
Use IKEA SH 10 for soft bending Use IKEA SH 20 for flat, Use IKEA SH 30 for irregular
products. rectangular shapes. shapes, where there is empty
space etc.
Note: Toys with shrink film packaging shall follow shrink film requirements set in IOS-PRG-0010
Toys – Safety Requirements.
5.3.2 Stretch Film Quality

Table 8 shows allowed stretch film quality. Special requirements are specified in the Packaging
Requirement.
Table 8 Stretch film quality.
Wrapping technique Material Colour Haze (%)
Horizontal wrapping Polyethylene No N/A
Vertical wrapping Polyethylene Semi-transparent 20-50
Stretch film shall be applied according to film manufacturer instructions/data sheets. The usage
of stretch film shall fulfil unit load goods fixation and test methods, see section 11.5.
Figure 2 Horizontal wrapping Figure 3 Vertical wrapping
5.3.3 Plastic Bag Quality

Special requirements are specified in the Packaging Requirement. If no IKEA quality is specified
in the Packaging Requirement, the minimum quality shall be followed. Table 9 shows the
material requirements for plastic bags.
Table 9 Plastic bag material qualities.
Type Material Thickness Haze (%) Colour
(µm)
• Polyethylene, low density (PE-LD)
Plastic bags • Polyethylene, high density (PE-HD) ≥ 40 ≤8 No
• Polypropylene (PP)
Note: Haze and colour requirements are not applicable for fitting bags.

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
5.3.4 Adhesive Tape Quality

Table 10 shows the requirements for adhesive tape used for packaging. For test methods, see
IOS-TM-0034: Packaging Tape Adhesive Capacity Test.
Table 10 Adhesive tape qualities requirements.
Type Backing Thickness Width Adhesive Working Colour
Material (µm) (mm) type temperature
50
For smaller
Adhesive Polypropylene
≥ 40 consumer Acrylic -40˚C to +80˚C Transparent
tape (PP)
packages:
25 or 38
Printing on tape is not allowed.
5.3.5 Strap Quality

Table 11 shows the requirements for straps used for unit load fixation. Straps used in other
application shall follow the Packaging Requirement or IKEA product documentation.
Table 11 Strap (SR) quality requirements
IKEA Code Material Width (mm) Pre-Tension Breaking- Colour
tension (N)
IKEA SR 10 Polypropylene ≥ 12 ≥ 1000 ≥ 2000 Black
Straps shall be applied according to the strap manufacturers instructions/data sheets. Preferred
sealing methods are friction welding or heat welding. Pre-tension and breaking-tension shall not
be tested by supplier, the supplier shall receive the correct parameters from the strap
manufacturer. Application of straps shall fulfil unit load goods fixation and test methods, see
section 11.5.
5.4 Inside Filler

Table 12 shows the requirements for inside fillers (IF).
Table 12 Inside Fillers (IF) qualities.
IKEA Code Picture Function Cobb 60
(g/m2)
Verification
ISO 535
Fills an empty space
IOS-TM-0036:
in between parts but
IKEA IF 10 ≤ 40 Consumer Package
does not support any
Handling Test
load.
Shock-absorbing IOS-TM-0036:
IKEA IF 20 block (edge ≤ 40 Consumer Package
protection). Handling Test
Fills an empty space

IOS-TM-0042: Unit
and supports when
IKEA IF 30 ≤ 40 Load Stacking
needed (outside or
Capacity Test
top) load.
Note: The Cobb value is only valid for paper-based materials.

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
6 Marking of Packaging Materials

Even if the consumer packaging has a printing original or not, the supplier is responsible to
make sure the right marking symbols (see section 6.1 to 6.9) are on the packaging.
6.1 General Placement of Marking

All required markings on a packaging part or component, shall be of the same size and applied
with a good workmanship, e.g. even printing, aligned, and readable. The proportion of height
and width of the markings shall not be manipulated. See Figure 4 for placement of marking.
Identification label
Environmental marking
Store facing
(Front Side)
Figure 4 Placement of marking
6.2 Marking Standard for Identification of Packaging Materials

See Table 13 for requirements regarding the marking of the packaging materials. The symbol
indicates the type of material used for the packaging parts and components.
Table 13 Marking standard for identification of packaging parts and components.
Criteria Requirements
Type of material All packaging parts and components used in consumer and service
packaging except for tapes and materials used for strapping (e.g. cable
ties).
Symbols See Table 3
Symbol height Minimum size = 10 mm
Maximum size = 17 mm (preferred)
Colour for printing/stamping Black
Location The symbol shall be clearly visible on all packaging parts of the consumer
package.
Application Marking shall be applied by printing, embossing, stamping, or similar
techniques. Application by labelling is only allowed if none of the above
methods are applicable. In such cases the label shall be of the same
material fraction as the material that is labelled.
Articles without consumer packages (i.e. only have labels) shall not be
marked.
Number of symbols Every part of the consumer or service package shall have a minimum of
one whole symbol. For plastic films and inside packaging components it is
allowed to print the symbol intermittent due to manufacturing reasons.
Preferable is minimum distance of 200 mm between the symbols. Size
and colour still to be respected.

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
6.3 Suffocation warning symbol

Table 14 shows the requirements for the suffocation warning symbol. All plastic bags shall be
marked with a suffocation warning symbol.
Table 14 Suffocation warning symbol
Criteria Requirement
Type of material All type of plastic bags used in consumer and service packaging.
Symbol
Symbol according to AA-1882514

Content description Special rules can be applied for e.g. Childrens IKEA, in this case the
requirement for plastic bags is not applicable, see IKEA product
documentation.
Maximum size = 17 mm
Location The symbol shall be clearly visible on the exterior of the plastic bag.
If the consumer packaging has a printing original, the marking

requirement is only valid and mandatory with the suffocation warning
symbol stated on the printing original.
Application Markings shall be applied by printing, stamping, or similar techniques.
Application by labelling is not allowed.
Number of symbols Minimum one whole symbol per plastic bag. It is allowed to print the
symbol intermittent due to manufacturing reasons. Preferable is a
minimum distance of 200 mm between the symbols.
No marking is required if the front surface of the plastic bag is
≤ 100 cm2.

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
6.4 The Green Dot

All IKEA consumer and service packaging shall be marked with the Green Dot symbol, see Table
15. The Green Dot symbol shows that IKEA is coupled to collection and recycling systems for
used consumer package. These systems shall ensure that IKEA packages are systematically
collected, sorted, and distributed for recycling.
Table 15 The Green Dot symbol requirements.
Type of material Any material used for consumer and service packaging, except for tapes
and straps.
Symbol
Symbol according to AA-1804098

Location The symbol shall be clearly visible on the exterior of the consumer
package, and shall be oriented as shown above.
Application Markings shall be applied by printing, embossing, stamping, or similar
techniques. Application by labelling is not allowed.
Articles without consumer packages (i.e. only have labels) shall not be
marked.
Number of symbols Minimum one whole symbol per consumer or service package is
required. For plastic films it is allowed to print the symbol intermittent
due to manufacturing reasons. Preferable is minimum distance of 200
mm between the symbols. Size and colour still to be respected.

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6.5 Marking Standard for Japan

All paper and/or plastic packaging material used for consumer and service packaging on the
Japanese market shall be marked with the Japanese environmental markings, see Table 16.
Table 16 Marking standard for Japan.
Type of material Any paper and/or plastic packaging materials used for consumer and
service packaging.
Symbol
Marking for plastic Marking for paper
Symbol according to:

AA- 266993 AA-266989
Symbol height Minimum size = 6 mm (8 mm when embossing is applied)
Location The symbol shall be clearly visible on the exterior of the consumer
package, and shall be oriented as shown above. Preferred location, see
Figure 4.
techniques. Application by labelling is allowed but not preferred.
Tapes, strapping, and inner packaging (e.g. fillers, dividers) shall not be
marked.
Corrugated cardboard packaging shall not be marked.
Note: No marking is required if the surface of the packaging part is

≤1.3 cm2.
Number of symbols Minimum one whole symbol per consumer or service package is
required. For plastic films it is allowed to print the symbol intermittent
due to manufacturing reasons. Preferable is minimum distance of 200
mm between the symbols. Size and colour still to be respected.

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6.6 Marking of Corrugated Cardboard Quality

Table 17 outlines the requirements for the corrugated cardboard quality marking that shall be
used for packaging based on corrugated cardboard.
Table 17 Marking of corrugated cardboard quality.
Type of material Packaging made of corrugated cardboard.
Symbol
Symbol according to: AA-489162

Content description • IKEA CB 10 (example): IKEA code for corrugated cardboard quality
according to IKEA standard, see Table 4.
• XX: Abbreviation (2 letters) of the local producer (converter or
producer of corrugated cardboard) of the packaging material.
• YYWW: YY=Year, WW=Week of converted packaging material
production.
Location The symbol shall be clearly visible on the exterior for all packaging
parts. The symbol shall be placed on the same location as the
environmental markings, see Figure 4. If this location is not possible
(e.g. due to limited space) it shall be placed as close as possible to the
environmental markings. Paper pallet feet made of corrugated
cardboard shall be marked with information about supplier and week,
without CB quality.
When it comes to unit load packaging parts (e.g. top and bottom
protection, sheets), it is ok to take away the symbol and print the
required information as one text line (e.g.: IKEA CB 230 XX-YYWW).
Number of symbols The marking shall be made on each separate part of the packaging
solution but not on inner packaging parts and components made of CB
(e.g. fillers).

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6.7 Marking of Load Bearer Quality

Table 18 Marking of load bearer quality.
Description LB 10 XX-YYWW or LB10 XX-YYWW / IKEA CB150 XX-YYWW if same
used for both LB and top protection
Content description • LB 10 (example): IKEA code for load bearer quality according to
IKEA standard, see Table 5.
• XX: Abbreviation (2 letters) of the local producer (converter or
producer of corrugated cardboard) of the packaging material.
• YYWW: YY=Year, WW=Week of converted packaging material
production.
Font All text in font Verdana regular
Number of symbols One.
For Paper pallet all feet shall feet shall be marked.

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6.8 Marking of Corrugated Cardboard Packaging Construction

Table 19 outlines the requirements for the construction and dimension marking that shall be
used for consumer packaging based on corrugated cardboard.
Table 19 Marking of corrugated cardboard construction.
Type of material Consumer packaging based on corrugated cardboard.
Symbol
Content description • AA-XXXXXXX-X: AA-number of the Packaging Drawing.

• LLLLxWWWWxHHHH: states the inside dimension in length, width,
and height (mm) of the actual construction. This is only applicable
for box constructions with parametric drawings.
Font All text in font Verdana regular
Location The marking shall be clearly visible on the exterior for all consumer
packaging and oriented as shown above. The symbol shall be placed on
the same location as the environmental markings, see Figure 4. If this
location is not possible (e.g. due to space) it shall be placed as close as
possible to the environmental markings.
If the consumer packaging has a printing original, the marking

requirement is only valid and mandatory if the drawing number (AA-
XXXXXX-X) is stated on the printing original.
Number of symbols Only one symbol per consumer packaging.
Marking of inner consumer packaging parts is not required.
6.9 ISPM 15 – International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures

ISPM 15 defines approved measures for treated solid wood with purpose to prevent the
introduction and/or spread of quarantine pests associated with the international trade of wood
packaging material. The wood shall be marked with the IPPC symbol. For pest control only heat
treatment is allowed.
The IPPC symbol shall be readable without use of visual aid. Note: Use of the IPPC symbol
requires approval from the National Plant Protection Organization (NPPO) in the production
country. The symbols are stated in the Regulation of wood packaging material in international
trade.

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6.10 Other Symbols

Other symbols shall only be added to packaging if required in the IKEA product documentation.
Table 20 shows the approved symbols. The proportion of height and width of the symbols shall
not be manipulated.
Table 20 Approved other packaging symbols.
Symbol Requirement
• Symbol height: Min 10 mm, Max 17 mm (preferred).
• Colour: Black
• Placement and application: According to IKEA packaging documentation
No knife symbol: AA-222736

• Colour: Black
Knife symbol: AA-279007

• Colour: Black
No scissors symbol: AA-222732

• Colour: Black
Scissors symbol: AA-1009726

• Symbol height: 35/75/150 mm.
• Colour: Black
Fragile symbol: AA-223124/AA-222742/AA-1014838

• Symbol height: 35/75/150 mm.
• Colour: Black
This side up symbol: AA-222743/AA-223126/AA-1907851

Note: For plastic packaging materials, embossing without colour is allowed as an alternative to
print.
6.11 Other Markings

Assembly instructions, colour marking, IKEA logos, “Made in …”, or non-IKEA related markings
or prints are not allowed on the packaging unless specified in the IKEA product documentation.
The supplier is allowed to use an internal packaging identification marking on condition that this
marking is placed in a concealed area, not visible on the finished packaging or packaging sales
solution that is meeting the customer.
7 Consumer Packaging
It shall be possible to handle a packed product on all six sides without any damage or
movement of the content in the package. For test method, see IOS-TM-0036: Consumer
Package Handling Test. Corrugated cardboard boxes for consumer packages shall not have
perforated fold lines. This is valid for all packaging solutions, except for single item – single
package with product thinner than 30 mm, inlays/dividers and if it is required by IKEA in the
Packaging Requirements/ Packaging Drawings.

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If nothing else stated in the Packaging Requirement, assembly instructions shall be located in
package number 1 and shall (if possible) be visible when the customer opens the package.
8 Multi-Pack Packaging
A multi-pack packaging contains several consumer packages. The purpose of a multi-pack
packaging is to avoid single item handling in the supply chain and adapt the quantity to the
forecasted sales.
As the multi-pack packaging is intended for manual handling, maximum weight limitation is 15
kg. Multi-pack packaging with weight more than 15 kg has to be constructed as a module (i.e.
low unit load) with handling material, see section 11.2.
9 Unit Load Transport Packaging

All unit loads where the consumer packaging or Ready-To-Sell packaging solution (RTS) is
unprotected shall have top and bottom protection as well as corner protection, see Figure 5.
Additional sheets may be required for stabilizing the unit load. Unit loads consisting of multi-
pack packaging do not need top/bottom protection and corner protection. Special requirements
to follow are stated in the Packaging Requirement.
Figure 5 Unit load protection.
9.1 Top and Bottom Protection

The requirements for top and bottom protection are:
• The top protection shall cover the total surface of the products. The top protection sheet
shall follow the same tolerances as the load bearer sheet, see Figure 17.
• The bottom protection shall cover the total surface of the products. If paper pallet is used
no extra bottom protection is required. Bottom protection shall follow the same
tolerances as the load bearer sheet, see Figure 17.
• To secure load safety, the top and bottom protection shall have a minimum friction of
µ=0.5 (which corresponds to 27 degree tilting), wherever measured on the surface. See
IOS-TM-0044: Unit Load Stability Test - 27°. This is the same requirement as in
section 11.5.
• The top protection shall be able to withstand the stacking capacity value indicated in
Actual DWP, see unit load stacking capacity requirement in section 11.4. If Stacking
Indication = “No”, then only dust/dirt protection is needed.
• The lowest flute height of double wall or glued together corrugated cardboard sheets
shall be facing upwards.

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9.2 Corner Protection

The requirements for corner protection are:
• The corner protection shall at a minimum be a 50/50 mm profile, strong enough to
withstand minor collisions, and keep a straight line under all conditions where feasible.
• Corner protection shall be made from paper- based material.
• Quality requirement: max 6 mm penetration. For test method, see IOS-TM-0043: Corner
Protection Puncture Test.
All vertical corner protections shall cover the total height of the goods. If bottom trays are used,
the corner protectors shall cover the unprotected part of the unit load above the bottom tray.
For application tolerances see Figure 6 and Figure 7.
Figure 6 Corner protection application Figure 7 Tolerances for UL with Bottom tray
tolerances.
Note: Unit loads for products with edge radius more than 25 mm and which do not show any
damage or deformation after being exposed to minor collisions, do not require corner protection
as long as they comply with section 12 Neat & Clean Packaging Requirements.
9.3 Unit Load Fixation

The allowed different methods to fixate the load onto the handling material are:
• Strapping (for strap qualities, see section 5.3.5).
• Stretch filming (for stretch film qualities, see section 5.3.2).
• Shrink filming (for shrink film qualities, see section 5.3.1)
What method to use depends on the shape, the weight of the goods that shall be fixated, the
performance and quality of the fixation method etc. If straps are used, appropriate edge
protection is required in order to avoid permanent marks on the packaging, see section 12.
Note: When fixating the load onto the handling material do not cover the fork entry of the
handling material.
It is not allowed to join several unit loads together with any fixation method. A unit load shall
always be handled as a separate unit load and never joining together two-by-two. This is valid
for both horizontal and vertical joining for unit loads. When modules are made as storage unit,
the modules shall be strapped together. For modules and storage units, see section 11.2.
This requirement is also applicable for filling solutions, except for load safety reasons.

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10 Low Handling Material

IKEA has two standardized types of low handling material (LHM):
• Paper Pallet
• Loading Ledges
Low handling materials have the following general requirements (see Figure 8):
• Standard height (H) of the foot is 50 mm.
• The width (W) of the fork entry, measured between two feet, is set to minimum 180 mm.
• Minimum fork entry height (H min) during compression (i.e. loaded with goods) is 45 mm
for paper pallet wherever measured throughout the supply chain. Fork entry height is the
distance between the underside of the load bearer and the ground surface (see Figure 9).
• Maximum fork entry height (H max) during compression (i.e. loaded with goods) is
50 mm.
• The placement of the feet shall follow requirements regarding feet pattern, to allow
handling with IKEA standard handling equipment, see section 10.4.
Figure 8 LHM foot height and fork entry width and height.
Figure 9 H min
Compliance shall be documented in accordance with Appendix B: Self declaration for packaging
materials, and shall be registered in Connect.
10.1 Paper Pallet

A paper pallet consist of paper pallet feet glued to a load bearer sheet. For load bearer
requirements, see section 10.5.
The paper pallet foot consist of a solid insert of vertically oriented rectangular corrugated
cardboard glued to a tray, see Figure 10. For available sizes, technical documentation, and test
requirements of paper pallet feet, see Table 21.
Figure 10 Paper pallet foot

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Table 21 Paper pallet feet size and test requirements.

Foot size Art. no. ICOMP Compression Insert Side Shear
art. no. (kN) compression strength
(N) (Nm)
90 x 90 x 50 mm 598.008.72 122151 ≥ 6.3 ≥ 200 ≥ 60
140 x 90 x 50 mm 298.009.20 133011 ≥ 9.4 ≥ 300 ≥ 80
180 x 90 x 50 mm 398.008.73 122150 ≥ 12.5 ≥ 400 ≥ 100
For test methods, see IOS-TM-0039: Pallet Foot Compression Test. The whole surface of the
paper pallet foot shall be glued onto the load bearer. For test method, see IOS-TM-0041: Pallet
Foot Shear Strength Test.
10.2 Loading Ledge

The loading ledge 8 is a plastic low handling material, see Figure 11.
Figure 11 Loading Ledges.
For available loading ledge sizes and technical documentation, see Table 22.
Table 22 Loading Ledge sizes.
Size Art. no. ICOMP
art. no.
760 x 50 mm 398.008.11 123005/1
510 x 50 mm 998.009.07 132871
The loading ledge shall be fixated onto the load bearer sheet or multi-pack packaging. Whatever
method is used, it shall be possible to separate the loading ledge from the load bearer sheet or
multi-pack packaging by hand-force. When lifting the unit load without any goods fixation, the
loading ledge shall follow the unit load.
10.3 Plastic foot

To support the unit load and ensure the minimum fork entry height, a plastic foot can be used,
see Figure 12.
Figure 12 Plastic foot.
8
Is to be phased out by packaging date stamp 1801 (year 2018 week 01).
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For available plastic foot size and technical documentation, see Table 23.
Table 23 Loading Ledge sizes.
Size Art. no. ICOMP
art. no.
160 x 96 x 50 mm 598.008.53 123735
The plastic foot shall be fixated to the load bearer sheet or multi-pack packaging. Whatever
method is used, it shall be possible to separate the plastic foot from the load bearer sheet or
multi-packaging by hand force. When lifting the unit load without any goods fixation, the plastic
foot shall follow the unit load.
10.4 Feet Pattern

The feet position and feet sizes shall maximise the strength of the unit load. The feet shall be
attached outside the hatched zone in order to enable handling and storage of unit loads with
IKEA standard handling equipment, see Figure 13. For standard paper pallet feet pattern, see
Appendix C: Paper Pallet Standards.
Figure 13 Hatch zones where feet are not allowed.
The placement of loading ledges and paper pallet feet shall be symmetrical in respect to the unit
load. The narrowest unit load that can be handled within IKEA is 480 mm with standard
monoforks and 720 mm with standard pallet jack.
Unit loads with low handling material shall be constructed to be handled 4-way by IKEA
standard handling equipment, standard pallet jacks (520 mm) and mono forks (280 mm). 4-
way handling means that you can handle the unit load from both length and width sides.
The fork entry shall be visible when using a forklift. For paper pallet with plain sheet used as
load bearer, the placement of the feet shall be 4 mm in from the edge, with a tolerance of -4
mm/+6 mm. See Figure 14.

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Figure 14 Placement of foot.
Trays shall follow same tolerance as plain sheet, measured from the inside dimension of the
tray.
Figure 15 Feet placement on trays
The unit load with handling material shall be possible to store on a standard wooden pallet
according to Table 24.
Table 24 Storage of unit load on standard wooden pallet.

Unit load Stored on Standard wooden pallet Standard wooden pallet dimensions
type (mm)
AL EUR pallet 1200 x 800 x 150 mm
BL HALF pallet 600 x 800 x 150 mm
DL IKEA pallet 2000 x 800 x 150 mm
The unit load shall be placed centred on the standard wooden pallet. Each foot or loading ledge
that has contact with the standard wooden pallet, shall have a minimum 50% of the foot surface
or loading ledge supported by the pallet, see Figure 16.

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Figure 16 Minimum foot and loading ledge placement on standard wooden pallets
(EUR/HALF/IKEA).
To both meet requirement of storing on standard wooden pallet and ensure visibility from forklift
position, additional feet or loading ledges may be needed.
10.5 Load Bearer Sheet

Approved load bearer (LB) sheet qualities are shown in Table 5. Lower quality of load bearer
sheet is not acceptable. The maximum thickness of a load bearer is 30 mm.
If a tray solution is used as load bearer, the construction shall follow IKEA construction standard
I452, I453 or similar. It is also required that it shall be glued. For tray used for ready-to-sell
solution, the feet can be glued directly on the tray.
Dimensions of the load bearer sheet sizes are standardized, see Appendix C: Paper Pallet
Standards.
The load bearer sheet shall follow the size of the unit load with a maximum deviation of
+15 mm/-24 mm, i.e. +7.5 mm/-12 mm on each side, see Figure 17. The load bearer shall
always be centred in relation to the unit load.
Figure 17 Maximum overhang and underhung of load bearer sheet.
The lowest flute height of the sheet shall be glued against the feet or fixated to the loading
ledges to get the best result for the fork entry opening height, see Figure 18.

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Figure 18 Example where lowest flute height of the sheet is glued to the feet.
11 Unit Load
This section describes the dimension and weight limits allowed (unit load constraints) for all
types of unit loads used within IKEA.
11.1 Unit Load Types

Table 25 shows the different unit load types and sizes used at IKEA. Unit loads shall always be
within the maximum gross dimensions and weight.
Note: Exceeding maximum gross dimensions or weight of the unit loads is against the IKEA
safety rule.
Table 25 Unit load types
Unit load AL, FULL PALLET, low handling material
Gross length 1200 mm (max 1600 mm)
Gross width 760 mm (max 1000 mm)
Gross height Max 1000 mm, including low
handling material
Gross weight Max 677 kg, including low handling
material
Unit load BL, HALF PALLET, low handling material
handling material
material
Unit load DL, LONG PALLET, low handling material

handling material
material
Unit load Type E, BUNDLED UNIT LOAD
Gross length Max 2400 mm
Gross width (Ø) Max 800 mm
Gross height --
Gross weight Max 350 kg

Unit load Type F, NOT UNITISED
This unit load type is only applicable when required in the IKEA
The use of this unit load type is strictly limited.

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Table 25 Unit load types

Unit load Type G, OTHER TYPE OF UNIT LOAD
This unit load type is only available when required in the IKEA
The following test methods shall not be used for unit load type G:
IOS-TM-0042: Unit Load Stacking Capacity Test

IOS-TM-0044: Unit Load Stability Test - 27
IOS-TM-0045: Unit Load Stability Test - 10°
IOS-TM-0046: Unit Load store Handling Test
IOS-TM-0047: Unit Load Transportation Test
This does not apply to strand board pallets, for which above
mentioned test methods shall still be followed.
Examples: flower trolleys, special roll containers, strand board

pallets and other special types of constructions approved by IoS.
Unit load Type A, FULL PALLET, Europe (EUR-pallet)
Gross height Max 1150 mm, including EUR

pallet
Gross weight Max 700 kg, including EUR pallet

Unit load Type B, HALF PALLET, Europe
Gross height Max 1150 mm, including HALF

pallet
Gross weight Max 350 kg, including HALF pallet
Unit load Type D, LONG PALLET, Europa (IKEA pallet)

Gross height Max 1150 mm, including IKEA

pallet
Gross weight Max 750 kg, including IKEA pallet
Tilting of unit loads during transportation or storage is not allowed. The unit load construction is
not considering other orientation than upright position.
Note: The unit load type BL/B is constructed as being a ready-to-sell (RTS) solution and always
equal to a MDQ/MDU.
Note: Requirements for unit loads that are transported by air freight, see Appendix D: Unit Load
Requirement when using Air Transportation.

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11.2 Modules and Storage Units

A module is a low unit load built in a way that a number of modules can be stacked on top of
each other in order to be stored together as a storage unit. A module is a packaging solution,
which can be mechanically handled in the supply chain, with an optimal store sales quantity.
The module is described in the Packaging Requirement and in required DWP.
The storage unit has the same unit load constraints as specified in section 11.1.
All requirements for unit loads are valid for the modules as well as for the storage unit except
for no unique unit load label for the storage unit.
Example (see Figure 19): A packaging solution is created as a module of type AL. Two modules
can be stored together as a storage unit, with a height of maximum 1000 mm and a weight of
maximum 677 kg, which is the constraints of the unit load type AL. This means that the module
height including low handling material is maximum 500 mm and the module weight including
low handling material is maximum 338 kg.
Storage Unit
Module Module
Figure 19 Example of modules and storage unit.
11.3 Filling solution
11.3.1 Top Filling solution

The purpose of using top filling solutions is to maximize the equipment utilization by temporarily
splitting a unit load during transportation. Products approved to be used as top filling solutions
are indicated in Required DWP by IKEA. Articles used as top fillers shall be documented in Actual
DWP by the supplier. The number of unit loads that are used as filling solutions shall be kept to
a minimum, the rest are to be built as standard unit loads.
For top filling solutions a label is required, see IOS-PRG-0019.
A top filling solution is a unit load divided in the horizontal direction where all separate parts
shall have a low handling material (see section 10) and fulfil the unit load protection
requirements (see section 9). The divided unit load shall be able to be rebuilt back to a unit load
with the same quantity and constraints as the standard unit load (see section 11.1). However,
the height constraint for the rebuilt unit load is maximum 1050 mm.
Tilting of unit loads is not allowed.

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Figure 20 Top filling solution.
11.3.2 Length and Side Filling Solution

Products approved to be used as length or side filling solutions are indicated in required DWP.
Side and length filling solution are only to be used to increase load safety if needed. A length or
side filling solution is a unit load divided into its consumer and multi-pack packages that can be
used to fill up empty space in length and side direction of the loading unit, without low handling
material.
The divided unit load shall be able to be rebuilt back to a unit load, including low handling
material, with the same quantity and constraints as the standard unit load (see section 11). The
low handling material shall be included by the supplier in the same shipment. Special attention
when using this filling solution is the Neat & Clean packaging requirements (see section 12).
11.4 Unit Load Stacking Capacity

In order to maximize equipment utilization in transportation and storage equipment throughout
the entire supply chain, it is important to be able to stack unit loads on top of each other. The
stacking indication in required DWP shows if the unit load shall withstand loads on top or not,
see Table 26.
Table 26 Stacking indication
Stacking indication Description
Allowed to stack other unit loads with similar handling material foot print
Yes on top of the unit load, according to defined Stacking Capacity.
Stacking Capacity: > 20 kg
Not allowed to stack anything on top of the unit load.
No
Stacking Capacity: 0 kg
The Unit Load Stacking Capacity for a unit load expresses the maximum weight (in kg) allowed
to be placed on top of the unit load, without compromising unit load requirements. The Stacking
Capacity is defined in Actual DWP as well as stated on the unit load label, see IOS-PRG-0019.
As a minimum, when Stacking Indication=“Yes” it is expected that the unit load shall be able to
withstand stacking of unit loads with same weight and similar footprint, plus a top filling
solution, reaching a stacking height of up to 2610 mm 9, see Figure 21. For test method, see
IOS-TM-0042: Unit Load Stacking Capacity Test.
The stacking height is only for determining the Stacking Capacity during the test. Maximum
allowed actual loading height shall follow loading guidelines and is dependent on loading unit
type (LUT) and local transport legislation.
9
2610 mm is related to the available loading height in loading unit type 40 feet high cube container.
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Figure 21 Unit Load with gross weight = X kg Figure 22 Unit Load with gross weight = Y kg.
Example (see Figure 21): The unit load has a gross weight of X=500 kg and a unit load gross
height of H=1000 mm. This means that it is possible to stack one unit load + top filling solution
on top before reaching the maximum stacking height. The Stacking Capacity is then expected to
be 750 kg (1,5*500 kg) after testing.
Example (see Figure 22): The unit load has a gross weight of Y=300 kg and a unit load gross
height of H=500 mm. This means that it is possible to stack four unit loads on top before
reaching the maximum stacking height. The Stacking Capacity is then expected to be 1200 kg
(4*300 kg) after testing.
Since the loading unit type and storage method can differ for the same unit load throughout the
supply chain the load stacked on top of the unit load can also be different. Therefore,
consideration to mixed articles in the shipments from the supplier shall not be regarded during
testing of Stacking Capacity. The Stacking Capacity should be as close as possible to maximum
load before collapse of the unit load, still complying with all unit load requirements with special
attention to safety.
In restricted cases, the unit load cannot withstand load corresponding to the minimum Stacking
Capacity. A lower Stacking Capacity is then allowed after agreement with IKEA.

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11.5 Unit Load Stability Requirements

Table 27 shows the stability requirements for a unit load with and without goods fixation. All
tests require both length and width testing.
Table 27 Stability test for unit loads.

Good Test Requirement Test method
fixation
Transportation The unit load shall be able to be IOS-TM-0047: Unit Load
With test transported without any damage. Transportation Test
goods
The load (or any part of the load) shall IOS-TM-0044: Unit Load Stability
fixation 27° test
not start to slide when tilting 27°. Test - 27°
The load (or any part of the load) shall IOS-TM-0045: Unit Load Stability
10° test
Without not start to slide when tilting 10°. Test - 10°
goods The load (or any part of the load) shall
Store handling IOS-TM-0046: Unit Load store
fixation not start to slide or fall off when
test Handling Test
handling the unit load.

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12 Neat & Clean Packaging Requirements

IKEA requires that all products and packaging solutions are in perfect condition when leaving the supplier and have no defects of any kind.
”Neat & Clean” is a common assessment of required conditions of IKEA packages. It shall be used from the moment the goods arrive at first
receiving point, being forwarded in the IKEA supply chain until the product meets the customer. All types of consumer, multi-pack, and transport
packaging are to be assessed according to Table 28 and Table 29. The Neat & Clean assessment is an integral part of IKEA daily operations for
evaluating packaging damages. It shall provide common ground for each individual decision regarding severity and relevance of a detected
packaging deviation.
Note: Ready to sell solutions (RTS) are considered as transport packaging. Defects on RTS packages which negatively influence the shop
environment are not acceptable. Note: Packaging solutions for kitchen and laundry appliances are considered as transport packaging.
12.1 Neat & Clean Requirements for Consumer Packages

Consumer packages are in sellable condition if:
• the appearance of the package is not influencing customers choice when picking the product.
• the package is closed and integrity of the package is not compromised.
• the protective function is not reduced and the ability of package to absorb shocks and impacts is still given.
Table 28 Neat & Clean requirements for consumer packages.
# Illustration Description of compromised Not acceptable Description of why customers choice is
packaging condition (Not acceptable if one or more points are valid) influenced
The packaging AND the products • Any kind of damage to the product itself; Appearance and functionality of product and/or
1.
are damaged. even very small package is affected.
The item can not be identified in buying

• Label content and/or barcode on the process, barcode readability is compromised
2. The label is defect.
packaging is unreadable and colour indication or any other label content
is unreadable.
• More than one 2 cm long tear per m2
packaging material.
Surface of package material is pulled off or
3. The packaging is torn. • Protective function is compromised.
ripped off.
• No tear is allowed for Home Furnishing
Accessories (HFA).

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• Holes >3 mm and if the hole/opening is not The surface of package has been penetrated,
4. The packaging has holes. a feature of the package construction. leaving product surface or components visible
• No holes are allowed for HFA articles. and unprotected.
• The shock-absorption ability at the squashed The corners of the package are crushed or
area has been reduced. squeezed with force which can also affect the
• The squash area is >2 cm on one of the content inside.
5. The packaging is squashed.
affected sides of the package.
• No squashed areas are allowed for HFA The squashed packaging material becomes
articles. wrinkled, soft or out of shape.
• Any marks and scratches longer than 5 cm

The surface of the package is damaged by a
6. The packaging is scratched. • No scratches longer than 2 cm are allowed
sharp or pointed object.
for HFA articles.
Visible dust, grease, stains, foot prints,

7. The packaging is dirty. • Any kind of dirt on the package.
production spill inside or outside of the package.
The package is damp/wet or affected by

8. The packaging is wet. • Any extent, even small indication. extreme humid conditions or has visible signs of
earlier weather impact.
• One of the consumer packaging dimensions

The outer dimensions are bigger than the
(height/width/length) have increased with
9. The packaging is swollen. original dimensions. The appearance of the
+5 %
package is poor.
• The closing (glue/tape) starts to fail.
• All graphical elements, markings or labels Packaging surface shows scribbles, marks,
10. The packaging have graffiti on it.
not required/authorised by IKEA signs, labels or any other graphical element.

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Press marks, tears or holes caused by straps or
transport belts with increased risk of concealed
The packaging edges are affected
11. • Any size damages. The package has been cut through
by straps or transport belts.
and/or CB-fluting at the package edges is
compressed or crushed.
The packaging has visible pressure

12. • The containing product is affected. The surface shows signs of indention.
marks.
Tape is coming off, gluing or locking has failed,

The packaging closing method is
13. • Any kind of open packages. ripped off package flaps, welding (plastic bag)
failing.
has failed.
The packaging shows signs of The package has visible areas or spots of
14. • Any size.
mould/fungus. organically contamination (mould or fungus).
On consumer packaging: The visible result of any activity which tries to

15. The package is visibly repaired.
• Any size and any method. recover the integrity of the package.
• Any size
Cracks on moulded packaging The moulded packaging part has broken into
16.
parts (i.e. Paper/EPS). Note: Packaging for appliances is defined as several pieces after a shock or impact.
Transport packaging.

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12.2 Neat & Clean Requirements for Transport Packaging

Transport packages can be forwarded if:
• the transport package (UL/MP) is safe to handle under any condition.
• the transport package is closed and integrity of the unit (UL/MP) is not compromised.
• the protective function is not compromised and ability of transport package to absorb shocks and impacts is till given.
Table 29 Neat & Clean requirements.

# Illustration Description of compromised Not acceptable Description of why the transport package
packaging condition (Not acceptable if one or more points are valid) can not be forwarded.
The packaging AND the products Appearances and functionality of product and/or
1. • Any kind of damage.
are damaged. consumer package is affected.
The item can not be identified in logistical

• One or more parts of the information on the
2. The label is defect. process, barcode readability is compromised or
label are unreadable.
other label content is unreadable.
• More than one tear per m2 packaging
material.
• Tear is longer than 15 cm.
The surface of the transport package material is
3. The transport packaging is torn. • The protective function and/or stability of
pulled off or ripped off.
transport package is compromised.
Note: Tears in stretch film are acceptable.

• If consumer packages are affected.
• Stability/integrity of transport package is The surface of the transport package has been
The transport packaging has a
4. compromised. penetrated, leaving consumer packages visible
hole.
and unprotected.
Note: Holes in stretch film are acceptable.
• The squashed area is larger than 5 cm on The transport package is crushed or squeezed
The transport packaging is each affected side of the package. with force. Consumer packages inside might be
5.
squashed. • The protective function and/or stability of affected. The squashed packaging material
transport package is compromised. becomes wrinkled, soft or out of shape.

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• The protective function and/or stability is
The transport packaging is compromised. The outer surface of the transport package is
6.
scratched. damage by a sharp or pointed object.
Note: Scratches in stretch film are acceptable.
Visible dust, grease, stains, foot prints,

• Dirty surface or packaging material which
7. The transport packaging is dirty. production spill inside or outside of the transport
affects cleanliness of consumer packages.
package.
The UL/MP is damp/wet or affected by extreme

8. The transport packaging is wet. • Any extent, even small indications. humid conditions or has visible signs of earlier
weather impact.
The outer dimensions are bigger than the

The transport packaging is • Outer dimension (length/width/height) is
9. original dimension. The appearance of the
swollen. bigger than +5 % of the original dimension
package is poor. The packaging closing fails.
• All graphical elements, markings or labels

The transport packaging have Packaging surface shows scribbles, marks,
10. not required/authorised by IKEA which might
graffiti on it. signs, labels or any other graphical element. .
disturb the UL/MP identification process.
The transport packaging is cut or • Any deformation, marks or damage to the Press marks, tears or holes caused by straps or
11. compressed by the strap or containing consumer package. transport belts with increased risk of concealed
transport belt. • The protective function is compromised. damages to the consumer package.
• If pressmark causes deformation, marks or

The transport packaging has
12. damages to the containing consumer The surface shows indentions.
visible pressure marks.
packages or products.

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• The protective function and/or stability is
compromised. Tape is coming off, gluing or locking has failed,
The packaging closing method is
13. • Containing products are accessible or may ripped off package flaps, welding (plastic bag)
failing
fall out during transport and handling. has failed.
• Re-taping/re-sealing not possible.
The transport package shows The package has visible areas or spots of
14. • Any size, even small indications.
signs of mould/fungus. organically contamination (mould or fungus).
• Stability of the unit is compromised after

repair.
• Protective function is compromised.
The transport package is visibly The visible repair of the transport package is not
15.
repaired. sufficient and disturbs the shopping experience.
For RTS packages:
• if the repair is influencing negatively the
shop environment.
• Parts of the cracked moulded material are
missing or not matching.
• Parts of moulded material >10 cm.
The moulded packaging parts are broken into
Cracks on moulded packaging • The containing product or packages might
16. several pieces due to compression, shock or
parts (i.e. Paper/EPS). be affected.
impact.
• Stabilizing function of transport packages is
compromised.
• Protecting function is compromised.

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13 Definitions
Term Description
Consumer packaging Consumer packaging, i.e. primary packaging, refers to all packaging which is
in direct contact with the product and ends up in the customers home. It also
serves the purpose as bearer of product information.
Date stamp The date stamp shows the packing year and week of a product.
Dimension Weights The Dimension, Weights and Packaging information is a fundamental part of
and Packaging the IKEA information infrastructure and is used within many different
(DWP) functions within IKEA.
DWP application is the IT-tool where DWP-information is documented.

Requirements are defined by IoS in required DWP and actual values are
defined by the supplier in Actual DWP.
Energy recovery Energy recovery means the use of combustible packaging waste as a means
to generate energy through direct incineration with or without other waste.
Equipment utilization The efficiency in a container, truck or wagon in terms of Net Cubic
Meters/Shipment, Weight Utilization and Filling Rate. Nm3/Shipment.
Filling solutions A method of splitting unit loads during transportation to fill empty spaces in
the loading units (containers, trucks etc.). When unloading such a loading
unit, these parts can be added together so that the resulting unit load has the
same amount of pieces as an original unit load.
FP/MP labels Multipack labels (FP is the Swedish abbreviation for multipack), these labels
has been replaced by the MDQ label.
Forest Stewardship The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is a non-profit organization that sets
Council (FSC) certain high standards to make sure that forestry is practiced in an
environmentally responsible and socially beneficial manner. If a product, like a
piece of tropical hardwood patio furniture, is labelled as "FSC Certified," it
means that the wood used in the piece and the manufacturer that made it
met the requirements of the Forest Stewardship Council.
Handling material Handling material refers to devices designed to support handling and
transport throughout supply chain.
Home Furnishing All items which are presented and sold in distinct shops in market hall and
Accessories (HFA) show room at the IKEA store.
Haze Degree of transparency, lower value is more transparent.
Identification label An identification label is a label that has a bar code.
IKEA Nominated IKEA Nominated Packaging Supplier is a packaging supplier having a general
Packaging Suppliers agreement with IKEA components.
(NPS)
Label Label means the product identification as described in IOS-PRG-0019. A label
shall be seen as packaging material needed for the presentation of goods
Low Handling Low Handling Materials, 50 mm fork entry. See also Handling material
Material (LHM)
Load bearer The sheet mainly of paper based material that is meant to support the load.
Loading Unit Type Different types of transport equipment, e.g. trailer, truck, or container.
(LUT)
M-board M-board is a lightweight fibre based material to be used mainly for load
bearer.
Module A low unit load built in a way that a number of modules can be stacked on top
of each other in order to be stored together as a storage unit.
MDU Minimum Delivery Unit
MDQ Minimum Delivery Quantity for a store.
MDQ label Minimum Delivery Quantity label. Replaces FP and MP labels.
More Sustainable More Sustainable Sources is pre- and post-customer reclaimed wood material
Sources (MSS) (recycled material) or wood from forests verified as responsibly managed
according to a forest certification system recognized by IKEA. Wood certified
according to FSC meets the IKEA requirements for More Sustainable Sources.

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Multi-pack (MP) Multi-pack packaging, i.e. secondary packaging, refers to packaging designed
packaging to contain several consumer packages.
Oversize The measurements of a unit load where the products have dimensions larger
than standard gross measurements.
Parcel packaging Packaging used to facilitate distribution of one or several consumer packages
to one receiver (i.e. CDC operations, e-commerce) in the parcel operation.
Also part of the definition of Transport packaging.
Packaging Drawing A technical drawing of the packaging construction.
(PD)
Plastic bag Plastic bag is a structure of plastic film closed on at least 3 sides.
Printing original At IKEA, the print original for consumer packages intended for home
furnishing accessories is called a “packaging original”.
Packaging solution Packaging solution is a minimum delivery unit including handling material,
multi-pack packaging, consumer packages, all other packaging parts and
material and connected documentation.
Ready-To-Sell (RTS) The product can be sold without any single-item handling just by removing
packaging solution the transport packaging.
Recycling/ Recycling means the reprocessing of packaging waste materials for the
recyclability original purpose or for other purposes including organic recycling but
excluding energy recovery.
Reuse Reuse means any operation by which packaging, which has been designed to
accomplish within its lifecycle a minimum number of trips, is refilled or used
for the same purpose with or without reconditioning/repair
Service Packaging Service packaging refers to all packaging materials provided at point of sale in
order to carry products or multiple products as a help to customer. E.g.
wrapping paper, carrier bags etc.
Single item/Single There is only one Consumer Package (e.g. corrugated cardboard box or shrink
package film package) consisting of one main element (e.g. door, kitchen front,
candle, picture frame, mattress, carpet, lamp, textile items).
Stacking indication A parameter describing if it is permitted to stack any weight on top. It is
defined in required DWP as Yes or No.
IKEA Standard Refers to normal forklifts, pallet jacks, and mono forks used in IKEA.
handling equipment
Standard wooden Three standard types of wooden pallets exist:
pallet EUR pallet (1200 x 800 x 150 mm)
IKEA pallet (2000 x 800 x 150 mm)
HALF pallet (600 x 800 x 150 mm)
Storage unit A storage unit contains multiple modules stacked together to fill a storage
location in a warehouse.
Store facing Side facing the customer in the store.
Strand board pallet A one way wooden based pallet with wooden feet.
Transport packaging Transport packaging refers to all packaging material used to protect and
facilitate handling during transportation of consumer packages or multi-pack
packages.
Unit load Unit load is a manageable unit consisting of one or several consumer
packages or several Multi-pack packages, fixated to a handling material,
designed to fit supply chain and storage facilities.
Unit Load Label A label to track goods during supply chain, described in IOS-PRG-0019.
(ULL)
Unit Load Stacking The Unit Load Stacking Capacity defines the maximum weight (in kg) that can
Capacity be stacked on top of the unit load.
Unit load Type A/AL A type that is developed for logistic purpose, where combinations of consumer
packs, multipacks and RTS can be used.
Unit load Type B/BL A type that is developed to fit the sales locations and store equipment, where
RTS is used.
Unit load Type D/DL A type that is developed for logistic purpose, for consumer packages with a
length exceeding 1600 mm.

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14 References
Table 30. References related to specification.
Related standards/ Name
specifications
AA-XXXXXX Internal IKEA codification number
DIN 6120 part 1 Marking of packaging and packaging materials for recycling purposes - Plastics
packaging and packaging materials - Part 1: Graphical symbols
DIN 6120 part 2 Marking of packaging and packaging materials for recycling purposes - Plastics
packaging and packaging materials - Part 2: Supplementary marking
EN 120 Wood-based panels - Determination of formaldehyde content - Extraction
method called the perforator method
EN 300 Oriented strand boards (OSB) definitions classification and specifications
EN 312 Particleboards specifications
EN 622-2 Fibreboards specifications part-2 requirements for hardboards
EN 622-5 Fibreboards Specifications - Part 5: Requirements for dry process boards (MDF)
EN 636 Plywood specifications
EN 717-1 Wood-based panels - Determination of formaldehyde release - Part 1:
Formaldehyde emission by the chamber method
EN 717-2 Wood-based panels - Determination of formaldehyde release - Part 2:
Formaldehyde release by the gas analysis method
FSC CoC standard FSC Standard for Chain of Custody Certification
FSC-STD-40-004 V2-1 EN
ISPM 15 International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures
Regulation of wood packaging material in international trade
IPPC International Plant Protection Convention
IOS-MAT-0010 IKEA Specification: Chemical Compounds and Substances
IOS-PRG-0010 IKEA Specification: Toys - Safety Requirements
IOS-PRG-0019 IKEA Specification: Requirements for labels
ISO 535 Paper and board -- Determination of water absorptiveness -- Cobb method
ISO 1043-1 Plastics - Symbols and abbreviated terms - Part 1: Basic polymers and their
special characteristics
ISO 2759 Board - Determination of bursting strength
ISO 2768 General tolerances - Part 1: Tolerances for linear and angular dimensions
without individual tolerance indications
ISO 3034 Corrugated fibreboard - Determination of thickness
ISO 3035 Single-faced and single-wall corrugated fibreboard - Determination of flat crush
resistance
ISO 3037 Corrugated fibreboard - Determination of edgewise crush resistance (unwaxed
edge method)
ISO 5628 Paper and board - Determination of bending stiffness by static methods --
General principles

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Appendix A: Test methods
Documentation ............................................................................................................. 2
Packaging Test Methods ............................................................................................... 3
IOS-TM-0027: Corrugated Cardboard Receiving Inspection and Test Methods .......... 3
IOS-TM-0027 Part A: Weight Comparison Test .......................................................... 4
IOS-TM-0027 Part B: Compression Comparison Test ................................................. 5
IOS-TM-0027 Part C: Surface Test ............................................................................. 6
IOS-TM-0027 Part D: Water Absorption Test ............................................................. 7
IOS-TM-0033: Shrink Film Puncture Test .................................................................. 8
IOS-TM-0034: Packaging Tape Adhesive Capacity Test ........................................... 10
IOS-TM-0036: Consumer Package Handling Test ..................................................... 11
IOS-TM-0043: Corner Protection Puncture Test ...................................................... 13
Handling Material Test Methods ................................................................................. 14
IOS-TM-0037: Load Bearer Compression Test ......................................................... 14
IOS-TM-0038: Load Bearer Sheet Deflection Test .................................................... 15
IOS-TM-0039: Pallet Foot Compression Test ........................................................... 17
IOS-TM-0040: Pallet Foot Insert Side Compression Test ......................................... 18
IOS-TM-0041: Pallet Foot Shear Strength Test ........................................................ 19
Unit Load Testing Methods ......................................................................................... 20
Unit Load Test Sequence ......................................................................................... 20
IOS-TM-0042: Unit Load Stacking Capacity Test...................................................... 21
IOS-TM-0047: Unit Load Transportation Test .......................................................... 23
IOS-TM-0044: Unit Load Stability Test – 27° ........................................................... 24
IOS-TM-0045: Unit Load Stability Test – 10° ........................................................... 26
IOS-TM-0046: Unit Load Store Handling Test .......................................................... 28
© Inter IKEA Systems B.V. 2004-2017 Appendix A Page 1 (1)

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Documentation
Test performed at IKEA supplier shall be documented in a logbook.
Documentation of testing at IKEA supplier and test reports from IKEA approved laboratories
shall include:
• IKEA supplier number and name
• Name of person who has performed the test
• Material supplier
• Sample quality code
• Material description (type of material such as physical characteristics, and materials
producers identification codes)
• Material batch number or equivalent
• Material date stamp (or production date)
• Details of any deviation from the test method
• Test result
• Date of testing
Documentation of performed test shall, unless otherwise stated, be:

• Available before first delivery
• In English
• On request, be provided to IKEA, by the next working day
• Retained by the supplier for at least 3 years
Pictures can be attached to clarify a result or to describe any remarkable finding during the test.

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Packaging Test Methods

IOS-TM-0027: Corrugated Cardboard Receiving Inspection and Test
Methods
Frequency
Packaging shall be inspected at reception and the result documented. The inspection frequency
can be reduced in agreement with IKEA, based on a documented performance of the packaging
supplier. If packaging material is purchased by IKEA Components from NPS (Nominated
Packaging Suppliers), it is not mandatory to perform receiving inspection.
Note: Passing the inspection does not replace the requirement for the unconverted corrugated
cardboard in Table 4.
Laboratory test shall always be carried out whenever there is a change of condition (e.g. change
of packaging material supplier, failed test on material), new/changed/updated packaging
solution (e.g. material, dimension, construction), or change in process parameters (e.g. new
equipment). As a minimum, all tests shall always be renewed within 12 months.
Note: Nominal value is the value that the supplier state in the self declaration, based on test
report from Test Laboratory.
Environment
Test at IKEA supplier.
Procedure
1. Perform test according to IOS-TM-0027 Part A: Weight Comparison Test
2. Perform test according to IOS-TM-0027 Part B: Compression Comparison Test
3. Perform test according to IOS-TM-0027 Part C: Surface Test
4. Perform test according to IOS-TM-0027 Part D: Water Absorption Test
The above tests can be carried out in any order.

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IOS-TM-0027 Part A: Weight Comparison Test
Equipment
• Five samples from the received shipment, each having the same size as reference
sample.
• Reference sample (recommended size minimum 1 dm2).
• Laboratory scale with controlled weight tolerance +/- 0.01 gram.
Note: The reference sample shall be renewed when needed, as a minimum yearly.
Preparation
The samples shall be conditioned together with the reference sample in a normal room climate
for 24 hours.
Procedure
5. Measure the reference sample weight.
6. Measure the weight of each sample.
7. Calculate the average weight of the five samples.
8. Compare the average weight with the reference sample weight.
Assessment
The weight shall not be outside the range of 95-105 % in comparison to the reference sample
weight.
Example: If the reference sample weight after conditioning is 3.00 g, then the test has passed if
the average weight of the five sample pieces is not less than 2.85 g (- 5%) or not more than
3.15 g (+5%).

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IOS-TM-0027 Part B: Compression Comparison Test
Equipment
• Five samples from the received shipment (the samples shall be cut minimum 50 mm
from the edge or fold).
• Reference sample.
• Measurement tool with a tolerance +/- 0.01 mm, see Figure 23. Dial gauge micrometre
is recommended.
Note: The reference sample shall be renewed when needed, as a minimum yearly.
Note: It is important to measure with a proper instrument in order to obtain correct values.
Make sure the corrugated cardboard is not crushed and applied pressure is correct, see Figure
24. It is important to measure thickness on the flat surface of the liners. Secure that the sample
will be perpendicular to the measurement tool.
Figure 23 Measurement tool. Figure 24 Procedure of applying measurement.
Preparation
Control if the stack is flat or skewed, see Figure 25 and Figure 26. Compression on one side of
the converted corrugated cardboard only is not acceptable.
Figure 25 Skewed stack due to compression Figure 26 Straight stack (OK)

(not OK)
The samples shall be conditioned together with the reference sample in a normal room climate
for 24 hours.
Procedure
1. Measure the reference sample thickness.
2. Measure the thickness of the five samples.
3. Calculate the average thickness of the five samples.
4. Compare the average thickness with the reference sample thickness.

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Assessment
Compression caused by converting shall be less than 0.3 mm, comparing to the reference
sample.
Example: If the reference sample thickness is 2.92 mm, the result is acceptable if the average
thickness of the samples is 2.62-2.92 mm.
IOS-TM-0027 Part C: Surface Test
Equipment
• One sample from the received shipment
• Reference sample
• Light with daylight colour (500 lux)
Note: The reference samples shall be renewed when needed, as a minimum yearly.
Procedure
1. Light up the surface from 1 meter with the light source directly above the converted
package.
2. Compared the sample with the reference sample.
Assessment
The test is passed if the samples have no visible washboard effect, see Figure 27.
Figure 27 Controlled sample not OK due to

the washboard effect

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IOS-TM-0027 Part D: Water Absorption Test

Note: This is a field test intended to indicate if the corrugated has good enough quality. To
make a complete test, follow the test method according to ISO 535.
Equipment
• One sample from the received shipment
• Water
• Measuring cup (5 ml)
• Blotting paper
Procedure
For test procedure, see Table 31.
Table 31 Water absorption test procedure.

Procedure
1. Add 5 ml of water to the surface.
2. Wait for 90 seconds. Pass/Fail criteria
3. Check if the water is still on the surface, or if

the liner has absorbed the water.
Water not absorbed. Water absorbed.

(OK) (NOT OK)
4. Remove the water with the blotting paper.
5. Check if the corrugated cardboard surface has

been wetted by the water.
The surface is not wet. The surface is wet.

(OK) (NOT OK)
6. Scratch the surface and control if the liner

comes off.
Liner does not tear. (OK) Liner is torn. (NOT OK)

7. Repeat the test on the other side.
Assessment
This test can only predict whether the sample is close to IKEA requirements. In case of any
doubt the sample shall be judged as non-compliant.

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IOS-TM-0033: Shrink Film Puncture Test
Frequency
Each shipment of packaging shall be tested at reception and the result documented. The
inspection frequency can be reduced in agreement with IKEA, based on a documented
performance of the packaging supplier.
Test shall always be carried out whenever there is a change of condition (e.g. change of
packaging material supplier, failed test on material), new/changed/updated packaging solution
(e.g. material, dimension, construction), or change in process parameters (e.g. new
Environment
Test at IKEA supplier
Equipment
• Five shrink film samples per test.
• Shrink film test equipment, see Figure 28.
o Level plate according to AA-565877
o Cylinder with ring according to AA-1784820
o Puncture stick according to AA-565875
1. Level plate
2. Cylinder with ring
3. Puncture stick
Figure 28 Shrink film test equipment.

Note: The puncture stick has different ends in order to perform the test. The smooth end is
used for puncture thumb, while the sharp end is used for puncture sharp.
Procedure
1. Place the cylinder with ring on a rigid surface.
2. Insert the level plate into the level to be tested according to Table 6, see Figure 29.
3. Apply the shrink film. The shrink film shall be sealed properly, i.e. without any openings.
4. Apply heat to shrink the film tightly.
5. Push the puncture stick in a vertical direction towards the level plate, see Figure 30.
6. Repeat the test with the other side of the puncture stick.
7. Repeat the test for all samples.

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Figure 29 Insertion of level plate. Figure 30 Puncture test procedure.
Assessment
If the puncture stick reaches the level plate on all samples before the film punctures, the film is
approved according to shrink film quality requirement, see Table 6.

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IOS-TM-0034: Packaging Tape Adhesive Capacity Test
Frequency
Environment
Equipment
• Six pieces of adhesive tape (length min. 200 mm excluding open end piece).
• Corrugated cardboard sheet, from the packaging line in actual quality according to
packaging requirements.
• Dispenser
Procedure
1. Attach six pieces of adhesive tape onto the outside of the corrugated cardboard sheet,
see Figure 31. Leave an open end of the tape over the edge of the sheet. The tape
direction relative the flute direction is of no importance. Make sure the tape is attached
in a proper way all over the whole surface, with no wrinkles or air cavities.
2. Wait 24 hours for the tape and the corrugated cardboard to properly be joined together.
3. Grasp the open end of the tape and tear off the tape upwards (in a vertical direction)
slowly from sheet.
4. Measure the area of the surface on the tape that was attached on the corrugated
cardboard where fibres were ripped off.
5. Document the result for each tape.
Figure 31 Corrugated cardboard with attached adhesive tape.
Assessment
The test has passed if more than 50% of the fibres was torn off the corrugated cardboard for
each tape.

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IOS-TM-0036: Consumer Package Handling Test

Note: This test is only applicable for products with a closed consumer packaging.
Test Sequence
This test shall be performed after the unit load testing, see Unit Load Test Sequence.
Frequency
Environment
Equipment
• Three consumer packages picked from the bottom of the tested unit load.
• Measure tape.
The test shall be made by:

- 1 person if package weight < 25 kg.
- 2 persons if package weight ≥ 25 kg.
The test shall be conducted on a hard and solid (concrete) floor.
Rotation test
Procedure
1. Rotate the package along the length of the package until it gets back to its original
position. Follow the label for indication, see Figure 32.
2. After each movement let the end of the package falling down approximately 50 mm
height, see Figure 33.
3. Repeat the procedure for the top and side of the package (see Figure 34 and Figure 35.).
4. Repeat the test for all three samples.
Figure 32 Rotation along the length of the Figure 33 Release the package from 50 mm
package. height.

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Figure 34 Rotation along the top of the Figure 35 Rotation along the side of the
package. package.
Assessment
The test has passed when the following is fulfilled:
• All product parts/components included in the package is undamaged.
• The closing of the package is intact.
• All product parts or packaging parts are remaining in the original location stated in the
Packaging Requirement.
Drop test
This test is only applicable if shock absorber is required in the Packaging Requirement unless
otherwise more stringent requirements are stated.
Procedure
Lift up the package to 250 mm above floor level, with the side that shall be tested facing down.
No accurate angle is required. The sides that have shock absorbers shall face the floor. Drop the
package on the floor. See Figure 36.
Figure 36 Drop test
Assessment
The test has passed when the following is fulfilled:
• All product parts/components included in the package is undamaged.

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IOS-TM-0043: Corner Protection Puncture Test
Frequency
Environment
Equipment
• 10 corner protection samples.
• Test equipment:
o Puncture stick with tip according to AA-565943
o Steel pipe according to AA-565942
• Corrugated cardboard sheet (min. thickness 7 mm)
Procedure
1. Place the corrugated cardboard sheet under the test sample.
2. Place the steel pipe on the sample.
3. Place the puncture stick inside the steel pipe so that the tip is 700 mm above the test
sample.
4. Drop the steel bar from 700 mm height, see Figure 37.
5. Repeat the test for all 10 samples.
Figure 37 Test procedure.
Assessment
The test has failed if the whole 6 mm tip has penetrated into the corner protection for any of the
test samples, see Figure 38 and Figure 39.
Figure 38 Example of passed test. Figure 39 Example of failed test.

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Handling Material Test Methods

IOS-TM-0037: Load Bearer Compression Test
Frequency
Environment
Test in IKEA approved laboratory.
Equipment
• Five load bearer samples (300x300 mm).
• Compression testing machine (sample area min. 300x300 mm).
• Load applicator (100x100 mm), e.g. block made of wood.
Preparation
All test samples shall be pre-conditioned for 24 hours before testing in the following conditions:
• Relative humidity: 50% ± 5%
• Temperature: 23 °C ± 2 °C
These conditions shall also prevail during the test.
Procedure
1. Place test sample on a flat, hard, rigid, horizontal surface.
2. Place a rigid load applicator on the middle of the test sample, see Figure 40.
3. Apply a uniformly distributed load on the load applicator with a constant speed of
10 mm/min, and measure the maximum force that is reached before the deformation
reaches 5 mm. For material below 10 mm measure the maximum force that is reached
before the deformation reaches 4 mm. The compression force shall include the weight of
applicator.
4. Document the reached compression force for each sample.
Figure 40 Compression test setup.
Assessment
According to load bearer compression strength requirement, see Table 5.

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
IOS-TM-0038: Load Bearer Sheet Deflection Test
Frequency
Environment
Equipment
• 10 samples (100x450 mm).
• Fixture support (height 50 mm), e.g. paper pallet foot or other light weight block.
• Static load.
• Load applicator (90x180 mm), e.g. paper pallet foot or other light weight block.
See Figure 42 for test set up.
Note: The total weight of the static load excluding load applicator shall be according to Table 5.
Figure 41 Deflection test setup; front view.
Preparation
Procedure
1. Use the fixture support as support for the sample to be tested. The distance between the
supporting blocks shall be 300 mm, see Figure 42.
2. Measure the distance between the load bearer and the table.
3. Place the static load in the middle of the test sample. Use a load applicator in order to
distribute the load.
4. Wait 10 minutes.
5. Measure the deflection (Δ H), see Figure 42.
6. Perform the deflection test for five samples in the machine direction (MD) and five
samples in the cross machine direction (CD).
7. Note the deflections of each sample.
8. Calculate the average value in each direction.

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
Figure 42 Deflection of load bearer.
Assessment
The average value shall be according to load bearer deflection requirement, see Table 5.

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
IOS-TM-0039: Pallet Foot Compression Test
Frequency
Environment
Equipment
• Compression testing machine.
• 10 pallet feet samples.
Preparation
Procedure
1. Place test sample on a flat, hard, rigid and horizontal surface according to Figure 43.
2. Run the compression testing machine with a constant speed of 10 mm/min, and measure
the maximum force that is reached before the deformation reaches 5 mm.
3. Repeat the test for all ten samples.
4. Note the reached compression force for each sample.
5. Calculate the average for all ten samples.
Figure 43 Paper pallet foot compression test procedure.
Assessment
The average value shall be according to paper pallet foot compression requirement, see Table
21.

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
IOS-TM-0040: Pallet Foot Insert Side Compression Test
Frequency
Environment
Equipment
• 10 pallet foot insert samples (without cover).
• Compression testing machine
Preparation
Procedure
1. Place the test on a flat, hard, rigid and horizontal surface according to Figure 44.
2. Run the compression testing machine with a constant speed of 10 mm/min, and measure
the maximum force that is reached before the deformation reaches 5 mm.
3. Repeat the test for all ten samples.
4. Note the reached compression force for each sample.
5. Calculate the average for all ten samples.
Figure 44 Paper pallet foot insert compression test procedure.
Assessment
The average value shall be according to paper pallet foot insert side compression requirement,
see Table 21.

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
IOS-TM-0041: Pallet Foot Shear Strength Test
Frequency
Environment
Test at IKEA supplier and packaging supplier.
Equipment
• One pallet with glued feet.
• Torque wrench.
• Foot fixture:
o 90x180 mm, according to AA-565956
For test equipment, see Figure 45.
Figure 45 Pallet shear strength test equipment.
Note: Since there are tolerances on both the fixture and the foot itself, sometimes a small
metal plate is needed in order to fill up the gap between the foot and the fixture. The gap shall
be minimum 1 mm and maximum 3 mm.
Procedure
1. Firmly fix the paper pallet on top of a rigid table.
2. Place the foot fixture around one foot.
3. Use the torque wrench in order to apply a shear force to the foot. Keep increasing the
torque wrench until the momentum is reached according to the requirement in Table 21.
The rotation of the foot shall be in the same place as the supporting table.
4. Repeat the test for three feet in total on the pallet.
5. Register the result of each test by indicating the torque (Nm) reached.
Assessment
The test is pass if all feet are intact and remain fixed in place after testing. If any kind of failure
occurs before reaching the required momentum according to shear strength requirement, see
Table 21, describe the failure in the test report.
Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
Unit Load Testing Methods

Unit Load Test Sequence
The unit load test shall be performed on the same unit loads in the following sequence:
1. IOS-TM-0042: Unit Load Stacking Capacity Test

2. IOS-TM-0047: Unit Load Transportation Test
3. IOS-TM-0044: Unit Load Stability Test - 27°
4. IOS-TM-0045: Unit Load Stability Test - 10°
5. IOS-TM-0046: Unit Load store Handling Test
Note: It is accepted to have 27° test (IOS-TM-0044: Unit Load Stability Test - 27°) before the
transportation test (IOS-TM-0047: Unit Load Transportation Test).
If the supplier has the same article in different colours, using the same packaging solution and
the same packaging supplier and batch, it is allowed to test one colour and then assume that
the other colours will have the same result.

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
IOS-TM-0042: Unit Load Stacking Capacity Test

Note: This test is only valid for unit loads with Stacking indication=Yes in required DWP.
Frequency
equipment).
Environment
Equipment
• One unit load.
• One low handling material (with the same construction as used for the unit load).
• Solid board covering the complete top surface of the unit load.
• Weights according to Table 32.
• Standard handling equipment (forklift).
The unit load shall be compliant to all given requirements before testing.
Table 32 Stacking capacity test weight.

Stacking capacity (kg) Required weight for the test (kg)
Stacking capacity = Defined max. weight (kg) on
1.5 10 x stacking capacity
top of the unit load, set by the supplier.
Note: The solid board is not considered from a weight perspective.
Test Sequence
1. Test according to required stacking capacity according to the stacking height
requirement.
2. If test 1
a. Is OK: Test according to estimated maximum stacking capacity
(defined by supplier).
b. Is not OK: Test according to estimated lower stacking capacity
(defined by supplier)
Procedure
1. Place the unit load as described in Figure 46. The weight has to be evenly spread out
over the solid board.
2. Place it in a warehouse environment on a solid floor or similar for 72 hours.
3. After 72 hours, evaluate the unit load against the requirements.
10
1.5 is the safety margin.
Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
Figure 46 Procedure for Stacking Capacity test
Assessment
• No damage to the product is allowed.
• No damage to any part of the packaging solution (unit load, multi-pack or consumer
packaging) is allowed. Minor damages to the packaging are allowed as long as the Neat &
Clean packaging requirements are fulfilled.
• No shifting of the product and packaging content in the consumer packaging is allowed.
• No effects that result in non-compliance with any other Packaging Requirement is
allowed.

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
IOS-TM-0047: Unit Load Transportation Test

Frequency
equipment).
Environment
Test at IKEA supplier
Equipment
• Unit loads of the same article including top filling solution (if applicable), to fill up one
stack in the transport equipment according to the defined unit load Stacking Capacity.
• High cube transportation equipment. (Preferred equipment to use is 40HC or T90L. If no
high cube transport equipment is available, the most common transport equipment shall
be used. The transport equipment shall meet all standards set by IKEA.).
Preparation
• All unit loads and top filling solutions shall be 100% compliant to IOS-P-0010.
• The test route shall be selected (as far as possible) in a way that it is possible to repeat
the test over time. The transportation test route shall be minimum 200 km of which min.
5 km is of “bumpy” nature. The test route shall include the following situations at least
four times each:
o Uphill driving, + 5%
o Downhill driving, - 5%
o Normal breaking, full speed (according to speed limit) to 0 km/h
o Emergency breaking from 50 km/h to stop (in a controlled way!)
o Acceleration, 0 km/h to full speed (according to speed limit)
o Fast turning, 90 degree left and right turns
o Slowly passing speed bump
Procedure
The test shall be done within the local traffic regulations, e.g. speed limits.
1. Load the transport equipment with test unit load, with a weight on top corresponding to
the defined unit load Stacking Capacity. The unit loads shall be loaded and secured
according to local regulations.
2. Drive according to the test route.
3. Unload the unit loads.
4. Inspect the unit loads.
Assessment
• No damage to any part of the product.
• No visible damage to any part of the packaging solution (unit load, multi-pack or
consumer packaging). Minor damages to the packaging are allowed as long as the Neat &
Clean packaging requirements are fulfilled (see section 12).
• No visible shifting of the product or packaging content in the consumer packaging. Check
that the fork entry height is within the requirement, especially the fork entry height
between the top surface of the first layer unit load and bottom surface of second layer
unit load.

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
Frequency
equipment).
Environment
Equipment
• Unit load with goods fixation and top protection
• Fork lift or tilting platform
• Pallet support with borders (prevent sliding of the unit load, ex. height 35 mm)
If the unit load is placed on a paper pallet or loading ledges at the bottom, the unit load shall be
placed on a pallet support to avoid damages on the pallet. The pallet support shall be equipped
with borders to prevent the pallet from sliding, see Figure 48.
Preparation
Calculate the minimum height (H) to reach for the length and width side when tilting the unit
load 27° with the following formula:
• H = length of the side x 0.454
Examples:
• The length of the unit load is 1200 mm. H = 1200 x 0.454 = 545 mm
• The width of the unit load is 800 mm. H = 800 x 0.454 = 363 mm
If a pallet support is used, the calculation above shall be adjusted according to the length and
width of the supporting pallet.
Procedure
Figure 47 Unit load in a tilted position.
Note: High and narrow unit loads that can become unbalanced and tip over are OK to support,
by hand or mechanically, in order to test if load slides or not.

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
Figure 48 Unit load stability test with paper pallet.
Figure 49 Top protection friction test, top protection sheet placed between pallets.
The procedure for Figure 49 shall only be applicable when the top protection is not made of
corrugated cardboard.
Assessment
Test pass according to requirements in Table 27.

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
Frequency
equipment).
Equipment
• Unit load without goods fixation or other materials (i.e. in the intended shape at the IKEA
store, see Figure 51).
• Fork lift or tilting platform.
• Pallet support with borders (prevent sliding of the unit load, ex. height 35 mm).
If the unit load is placed on a paper pallet or loading ledges at the bottom, the unit load shall be
placed on a pallet support to avoid damages on the pallet. The pallet support shall be provided
with borders to prevent the pallet from sliding, see Figure 52.
Preparation
Calculate the minimum height (H) to reach for the length and width side when tilting the unit
load 10° with the following formula:
• H = length of unit load x 0.174
Examples:
• A unit load with a length of 1200 mm. H = 1200 x 0.174 = 209 mm
• A unit load with a width of 800 mm. H = 800 x 0.174 = 139 mm
If a pallet support is used, the calculation above shall be adjusted according to the length and
width of the supporting pallet.
Procedure
1. Use the fork lift to tilt the unit load in an angle of 10°, see Figure 50.
2. Repeat the test for both length and width sides.
Figure 50 Unit load in a tilted position. Figure 51 Unit load without fixation
Note: For rolled mattresses it is allowed to make a 10° test with a strap around.

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
Figure 52 Unit load with paper pallet.
Assessment
Test pass according to requirements in Table 27.

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
IOS-TM-0046: Unit Load store Handling Test
Frequency
equipment).
Environment
Equipment
• Unit load without fixation (i.e. in the intended shape at the IKEA store, see Figure 51).
• Standard fork lift or hand-jack, with measurement 520 mm for pallet-jack or 280 mm for
monofork.
Procedure
1. Pick up the unit load from short side and lift above the ground.
2. Move the pallet 3 meters.
3. Observe the result.
Repeat the procedure for the long side.
Assessment
Test pass according to requirements in Table 27. See Figure 53 for example of failed test.
Figure 53 Example of failed test.

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
Appendix B: Self declaration for packaging materials

Frequency
Environment
The corrugated cardboard test shall be conducted in an IKEA approved laboratory.
Documentation and Archiving

Documentation of testing at IKEA supplier and test reports from IKEA approved laboratories
shall include:
• IKEA supplier number and name
• Name of person who has performed the tests
• Material supplier
• Sample quality code
• Material description (type of material such as physical characteristics, and materials
producers identification codes)
• Material batch number or equivalent
• Material date stamp (or production date)
• Details of any deviation from the test method
• Test result
• Date of testing
Documentation of performed tests shall, unless otherwise stated, be:

• Available before first delivery
• In English
• On request, be provided to IKEA, by the next working day
• Retained by the supplier for at least 3 years
Pictures can be attached to clarify the result or to describe any remarkable finding during the
test.
All required self-declarations shall be filed in the IKEA Connect database with reference to the
relevant section of the current version of this specification.
© Inter IKEA Systems B.V. 2004-2017 Appendix B Page 1 (1)

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
Self declaration for Corrugated Cardboard Qualities

This form – or an equivalent form with the same information – shall be used to certify compliance with requirements for corrugated board qualities
according to specification IOS-P-0010 (AA-171373-17), with nominal values as stated below.
If the corrugated cardboard producer is nominated by IKEA, test report number is not needed. Compliant test report shall be provided to IKEA on the
next working day upon request.
IKEA Code Bending Edgewise Bursting Flat crush test Cobb 60 test water FLUTE Weight Thickness Mottling
stiffness crush test strength (FCT) (kPa) absorptiveness (g/m2) type (g/m2) (mm) (two
(Nm) (ECT) test (BST) decimals) Coefficient of
(kN/m) (kPa) variation
(COV) on
white
corrugated
board
ISO 5628 ISO 3037 ISO 2759 ISO 3035 ISO 535 ISO 3034
IKEA CB XX average average average average inside outside
IKEA CB XX
IKEA CB XX
IKEA CB XX
IKEA CB XX
This is to certify that we have read and understood IKEA specification IOS-P-0010 (AA-171373-17), and that the corrugated cardboard is in
compliance with requirements in IOS-P-0010.
To be filled in by the corrugated cardboard producer:

A minimum of 4 samples of corrugated cardboard have been sent to the IKEA supplier in order to complete the receiving inspection.
Name of cardboard producer:

Production site:
Test report no:
Issue date for test report:
Address and phone no:
Name and signature:
Place and date:
© IKEA of Sweden AB • 2004-2017 Appendix B Page 2 (2)

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
Self declaration for Low Handling Materials

This form – or an equivalent form with the same information – shall be used to certify
compliance with requirements for paper pallets according to specification IOS-P-0010 (AA-
171373-17).
If the corrugated cardboard producer is nominated by IKEA, test report number is not needed.
Compliant test report shall be provided to IKEA next working day upon request
Load bearer:
IKEA Code Compression Deflection, ΔH Cobb 60 (g/m2) Thickness (mm)
strength (kN) (mm)
IKEA LB XX Inside Outside
IKEA LB XX
IKEA LB XX
IKEA LB XX
Feet components:
Foot size Compression strength (kN) Insert side compression strength (N)
90 x 90 x 50 mm
140 x 90 x 50 mm
180 x 90 x 50 mm
Feet producer: Production site:

Load bearer producer: Production site:
This is to certify that we have read and understood IKEA specification IOS-P-0010, and that the
paper pallet is in compliance with requirements in IOS-P-0010.
To be signed by paper pallet producer (which can be the IKEA supplier if paper pallets are
produced on site).
Name of cardboard producer:

Production site:
Test report no.:
Issue date for test report:
Address and phone no.:
Place and date:
Name and signature:
© Inter IKEA Systems B.V. 2004-2017 Appendix B Page 3 (3)

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
Appendix C: Paper Pallet Standards

Documents that support the standardization are Paper Pallet standard size Conversion Tool,
Application form and Sample order, which are found in the Supplier Portal.
Note: The length is always the longest measure of the Paper Pallet and the Unit Load.
Paper Pallet standard sizes

Plain Sheet Standard Length (mm)
2390 2000 1590 1210 1070 630
2350 1990 1550 1200 1030 620
2310 1950 1510 1190 990 610
2270 1910 1470 1180 950 600
2230 1840 1430 1170 910 590
2190 1830 1390 1160 870 550
2150 1790 1350 1150 830 --
2110 1750 1310 1140 790 --
2070 1710 1270 1130 750 --
2030 1670 1230 1120 720 --
2010 1630 1220 1110 670 --
Plain Sheet Standard Width (mm)

990 810 750 630 510
950 800 740 590 480
910 790 730 580 --
870 780 720 550 --
830 770 690 540 --
820 760 670 530 --
© Inter IKEA Systems B.V. 2004-2017 Appendix C Page 1 (1)

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
Special solutions paper pallets

Due to safety, quality, or handling, some products require a special design construction, see
Table 33.
Table 33 Standardized special design constructions.
Tray Solution
This construction is very good for protection of the
goods and unit load/LHM stability. The corners shall be
glued together and the sides shall be 80- 100 mm high.
The construction of the tray shall be according to IKEA

construction standard I452, I453 or similar.
Standard sizes shall always end with 0 for both length

and width e.g. 580, 590, 1160, 2100.
2-wing solution
This construction is used where there are more than one
package per product and where the product with the
widest package at top and most narrow in the bottom.
Standard sizes shall always end with 0 for both length

and width e.g. 580, 590, 1160, 2100.
4-wing solution
Mainly used for mattresses and sofas, the creasing line
for all versions shall have a size of approximately 7 mm.
This construction requires that the wings are in upright
position after the stretch film has been taken away; the
maximum allowed deviation is 15º out from the
package. IKEA CB 230 shall be used. For standardized
sizes see Table 34.
The wing solution shall be phased out by 1801 (year

2018 week 01).
Table 34 4-wing solution standard sizes.

Drawing no. Bottom surface Bottom surface ICOMP Art. no. Feet pattern
Length (mm) Width (mm)
AA-569671 800 780 124622 3H
AA-569673 1000 780 124623 A
AA-569675 1100 720 124624 A
AA-569677 1200 780 124625 A
AA-506973 1200 800 124019 A
AA-569679 1400 780 124626 C
AA-506974 1600 800 124071 C
AA-510502 2000 800 124021 AZ
AA-508677 2000 730 124204 AZ
AA-508679 1800 730 124201 AZ
AA-508681 2200 800 124202 BZ
AA-506976 1200 1050 124203 B
AA-593586 1800 800 128429 AZ
Note: The inner creasing lines give the bottom surface as in the table. The mid creasing lines
add approximately +87 mm and the outer creasing lines +184 mm to the original measure as in
the table. The creasing line and wings have all the same measurement regardless of size.
The feet are only to be glued on the bottom surface, regardless of how the wings are folded.

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
Paper Pallet Standard Feet Pattern
Table 35 to Table 38 shows standard feet pattern.

(EUR) = to be placed on EUR pallet.
(HALF) = to be placed on half pallet.
(IKEA) = to be placed on IKEA pallet.

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
Table 35 Standard feet patterns for all paper pallets A-D.
A (EUR) B (EUR) C (EUR) D (EUR)

W: 720, 730, 740, W: 910, 950, W: 720, 730, 740, 750, W: 910, 950, 990 mm
750, 760, 770, 990 mm 760, 770, 780, 790, 800,
780, 790, 800, 810, 820, 830, 870 mm
810, 820, 830,
870 mm
L: 910, 950, 990, L: 910, 950, 990, L: 1350, 1390, 1430, 1470, L: 1390, 1430, 1470, 1510,
1030, 1070, 1110, 1030, 1070, 1110, 1510, 1550, 1590 mm 1550, 1590 mm
1120, 1130, 1140, 1120, 1130, 1140,
1150, 1160, 1170, 1150, 1160, 1170,
1180, 1190, 1200, 1180, 1190, 1200,
1210, 1220, 1230, 1210, 1220, 1230,
1270, 1310, 1270, 1310,
1350 mm 1350 mm
Table 36 Standard feet patterns for all paper pallets 1H-5H.
1H 2H 3H 4H 5H
W: 480, 510, 530, W: 90 mm feet – W: 720, 730, 740, W: 480, 510, 530, W: 140mm feet –
540, 550, 580, 480, 510, 530, 750, 760, 770, 540, 550 mm 580, 590, 630 mm
590, 630, 670 mm 540, 550 mm 780, 790, 800, 180 mm feet –
140 mm feet – 810, 820, 830, 670, 690 mm
580, 590, 630 mm 870 mm
180 mm feet –
670, 690 mm
L: 90 mm feet – L: 720, 750, 790, L: 90 mm feet – L: 910, 950, 990, L: 910, 950, 990,
550 mm 830, 870 mm 720, 750, 790 mm 1030, 1070, 1110, 1030, 1070, 1110,
140 mm feet – 140 mm feet – 1120, 1130, 1140, 1120, 1130, 1140,
590, 600, 610, 830, 870 mm 1150, 1160, 1170, 1150, 1160, 1170,
620, 630 mm 1180, 1190, 1200, 1180, 1190, 1200,
180 mm feet – (all sizes have 1210, 1220, 1230, 1210, 1220, 1230,
670 mm 6 pcs of 90 mm or 1270, 1310, 1270 mm
140 mm feet on 1350 mm
short side, and (Min. 6 pcs of
3 pcs of 180 mm 180 mm feet)
feet in centre,
except for the
710 mm length
where it is 3 pcs of
140 mm)
Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
Table 37 Standard feet patterns for all paper pallets AZ-DZ-
AZ BZ CZ DZ
W: 720, 730, 740, 750, W: 720, 730, 740, 750, W: 910, 950, 990 mm W: 910, 950, 990 mm
760, 770, 780, 790, 760, 770, 780, 790,
800, 810, 820, 830, 800, 810, 820, 830,
870 mm 870 mm
L: 1630, 1670, 1710, L: 2110, 2150, 2190, L: 1630, 1670, 1710, L: 2010, 2030, 2070,
1750, 1790, 1830, 2230, 2270, 2310, 1750, 1790, 1830, 2110, 2150, 2190,
1870, 1910, 1950, 2350, 2390 mm 1870, 1910, 1950, 2230, 2270, 2310,
1990, 2000, 2010, 1990, 2000 mm 2350, 2390 mm
2030, 2070 mm

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
Table 38 Standard feet patterns for all paper pallets AX-DX.
AX BX CX DX
W: 480, 510, 530, 540, W: 140 mm feet – 580, W: 480, 510, 530, 540, W: 480, 510, 530, 540,
550 mm 590, 630 mm 550 mm 550 mm
180 mm feet – 670, Turned 140 mm feet if Turned 140 mm feet if
690 mm needed: 580, 590, needed: 580, 590,
630 mm 630 mm
Turned 180 mm feet if Turned 180 mm feet if
needed: 670, 690 mm needed: 670, 690 mm
Otherwise as sketch is Otherwise as sketch is
showing. showing.
L: 1390, 1430, 1470, L: 1310, 1350, 1390, L: 1630, 1670, 1710, L: 2190, 2230, 2270,
1510, 1550, 1590 mm 1430, 1470, 1510, 1750, 1790, 1830, 2310, 2350, 2390 mm
1550, 1590 mm 1870, 1910, 1950,
1990, 2000, 2010,
2030, 2070, 2110,
2150 mm

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
Appendix D: Unit Load Requirement when using Air

Transportation
Unit loads that are using air transportation will not have a specific Packaging Requirement or a
DWP.
Air transport is not the normal mode of transport of unit loads within IKEA, but when agreed,
the following unit load requirements are to be followed. It is the suppliers responsibility to follow
these rules together with the local rules set by the air freight company. All handling of unit loads
in air freight activities are using a standardized platforms, whereas dimensions etc. are set from
IATA (The International Air Transport Association).
• Max loading height is 1600 mm, including handling material. This requirement is set
according to aircrafts loading deck dimensions. To achieve this the top filling
requirements are applied if needed (see section 11.3.1), with the additional requirement
that the top filling part shall be fixed together with the unit load using stretch film.
• No handling material is needed for the top filling part.
• The bottom unit load shall have a handling material with 100 mm fork entry height. The
normal feet pattern is accepted, but an additional foot shall be applied
(50 mm + 50 mm = 100 mm).
• All unit loads shall have corner protection (also valid for eventual top filling and when the
unit load contain multipacks), see section 9.2.
• All unit loads shall have the “This side up” symbol: AA-223126, 150 mm on all 4 sides to
prevent tilting of the unit loads, see section 6.10.
Note: These rules shall not be applied for quantities smaller than unit loads or samples, etc.
© Inter IKEA systems B.V. 2004-2017 Appendix D Page 1 (1)

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
Appendix E: General Tolerances Packaging Construction

Tolerance standard for packaging construction parts such as boxes, fillers, dividers, sheets and
load bearer used in packaging solutions.
Purpose
This standard specifies the tolerance for:
• Packaging Drawings
• Packaging Requirement
Limitation
Some constructions and dimensions 11 may result in variation that exceed the tolerances that are
stated in Table 39. These construction tolerances shall always be specified on the Packaging
Drawings or in the Packaging Requirement.
Table 39 Standard tolerances extracted from ISO 2768-1
Tolerance class Permissible deviations in mm for basic size range
Over Over Over
From Over 6 Over Over
Over 3 400 up 1000 2000
Designation Description 0,5* up up to 30 up 120 up
up to 6 to up to up to
to 3 30 to 120 to 400
1000 2000 4000
F Fine ± 0,05 ± 0,05 ± 0,1 ± 0,15 ± 0,2 ± 0,3 ± 0,5 --
M Medium ± 0,1 ± 0,1 ± 0,2 ± 0,3 ± 0,5 ± 0,8 ± 1,2 ±2
C Coarse ± 0,2 ± 0,3 ± 0,5 ± 0,8 ± 1,2 ±2 ±3 ±4
V Very
-- ± 0,5 ±1 ± 1,5 ± 2,5 ±4 ±6 ±8
coarse
*For minimal size below 0,5 mm, the deviation shall be indicated adjacent to the relevant nominal size/s
When inside dimensions are given, + tolerances are allowed. When outside dimensions are
given, only – tolerances are allowed.
Unless otherwise stated, packaging parts exceeding the general tolerances shall not lead to
automatic rejection provided that the function of the packaging parts is not impaired. The
tolerance the function allows is often greater than the general tolerance. The function of the part
is therefore not always impaired when the general tolerance is (occasionally) exceeded at any
feature of the packaging parts. Exceeding the general tolerance shall lead to a rejection of the
packaging parts only if the function is impaired.
Tolerance standard for corrugated cardboard construction

Box construction
• Very coarse is to be used if designations are not specified in the Packaging Drawings or
in the Packaging Requirement.
• Box drawing shall always specify the inside dimensions, for a finished box the inside
dimensions are critical for a correct fit around the product.
• The length of the box is always the larger of the two dimensions of the open face of a
box when the box is set up for filling.
• The width of the box is the smaller dimension of the open face of a box when the box is
set up for filling.
• The height of the box is the distance perpendicular to the length and width of the box.
• End-opening boxes are measured the same way as the top-opening boxes.
11
All dimensions are in mm.
© Inter IKEA Systems B.V. 2004-2017 Appendix E Page 1 (1)
Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
Figure 54 Box construction
Filler
• Very coarse is to be used if designations are not specified on the Packaging Drawings or
• Fillers drawing/measurements shall always specify the outside dimensions.
• Dimensions are given in the sequence of length, width and height (L x W x H).
• When the filler dimensions are given, length is the largest of the three dimensions, width
is the second largest of the three dimensions, and height is the shortest of the three
dimensions.
Figure 55 Filler
Sheet/divider
• Very coarse is to be used if designations are not specified on the Packaging Drawings or
• Sheet drawing/measurements shall always specify the outside dimensions.
• When the sheet dimensions are given, length is the larger of the two dimensions and
width is the shorter of the two dimensions.
Figure 56 Sheet/divider
© Inter IKEA Systems B.V. 2004-2017 Appendix E Page 2 (2)

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
Appendix F: How to fulfil IKEA requirement on More

Sustainable Sources
Forest Stewardship Council
Any IKEA supplier situated in critical countries procuring corrugated packaging, paper pallets or
load bearers from local packaging suppliers (which are not IKEA nominated packaging suppliers)
shall procure with one of the following claims from FSC CoC Standard, which shall be on the
invoice to the IKEA supplier:
• FSC 100%
• FSC mix credit
• FSC mix percentage 100%
• FSC recycled (any claim)
• Until date stamp 1935 (year 2019 week 35) FSC mix percentage with an FSC share of at
least 70% will also be accepted as 100% more sustainable sources for corrugated
packaging and paper pallets or load bearers (with a claim on invoice to IKEA supplier).
Critical countries (high risk for illegal logging)

• Bangladesh
• Bosnia & Herzegovina
• Brazil
• Cambodia
• China
• Egypt
• India
• Indonesia
• Kazakhstan
• Macedonia
• Malaysia
• Mexico
• Pakistan
• Romania
• Russia
• Serbia
• Taiwan
• Thailand
• Turkey
• Ukraine
• Vietnam
The following countries have 8 months grace period to implement the requirement. The
requirement shall be implemented latest by date stamp 1835 (year 2018 week 35).
• Bangladesh
• Brazil
• Malaysia
• Mexico
• Pakistan
• Turkey
© Inter IKEA Systems B.V. 2004-2017 Appendix F Page 1 (1)

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
Summary of Changes in version 17

Changes are marked with a line in the left-hand margin. Double line to the left of a heading
means that a new section has been added or that a majority of the content in the section has
been changed.
Page Section Requirement Amendment

1 Implementation of Update of implementation time.
Changes Added different date stamps occurring in
the document.
4 4 Approved Packaging Added that coated liner is not allowed.
Materials
After packaging date stamp 2035 no
plastic material coming from 100%
virgin fossil based material is allowed.
9 5.1 Corrugated Cardboard Clarification when it is allowed to change
Quality flute type.
Added column for mottling. Added
footnote 5.
Update footnote 3 from 10 on MD/CD to
10 on inside/outside.
11 5.2 Load Bearer Quality Clarification that the requirement is valid
for all kind of load bearers made of fibre
based material.
Added IKEA LB 05 in Table 5.
Added clarification for Test Load (kg).
11 5.3.1 Shrink Film Quality Added note.
12 5.3.2 Stretch Film Quality Changed from IKEA ST to wrapping
techniques, horizontal and vertical.
13 5.4 Inside Filler Removed compression strength (kN).
Added verification.
14 6 Marking of Packaging Even if the consumer packaging has a
Materials printing original or not, the supplier is
responsible to make sure the right
marking symbols are on the packaging.
14 6.2 Marking Standard for Update of when application of labelling is
Identification of allowed.
Packaging Materials
19 6.7 Marking of Load Bearer New section
Quality
21 7 Consumer Packaging Clarification to include single package
with product thinner than 30 mm.
23 9.2 Corner Protection Added if bottom trays are used, the
corner protectors shall cover the
unprotected part of the UL above the
bottom tray.
Added Figure 7.
23 9.3 Unit Load Fixation Clarification that modules shall be
strapped together when made as a
storage unit.
© Inter IKEA Systems B.V. 2004-2017 Summary of Changes

Date: 2017-06-21
IKEA of Sweden AB
Page Section Requirement Amendment

26 10.4 Feet Pattern Clarification on the tolerance for plain
sheet.
Update of Figure 14.
Trays shall follow same tolerance as
plain sheet. Added Figure 15.
29 11.1 Unit Load Types Changed gross length for Unit load DL,
Long Pallet.
Clarification for use of test methods for
Unit load type G.
35 12 Neat & Clean Packaging Added two notes for clarification
Requirements regarding transport packaging.
41 13 Definitions Added definitions:
Home Furnishing Accessories (HFA)
Packaging solution
Single item/Single package
A13 IOS-TM-0036: Added assessment for IOS-TM-0036 and
Consumer Package drop test.
Handling Test
A14 IOS-TM-0037: Load Clarification for material below 10 mm.

Bearer Compression
Test
A15 IOS-TM-0038: Load Measure the distance between the load
Bearer Sheet Deflection bearer and the table added to procedure.
Test
B1 Appendix B: Self Added column for mottling.
declaration for
packaging materials
C1 Appendix C: Paper Update of standard width (mm).
Pallet Standards
Clarification in Table 33 for tray solution
and 2-wing solution that standard size
shall always end with 0.
Added that tray solutions shall be glued
together and the sides shall be 80-100
mm high.
4-wing solution will be phased out by
1801.
E1 Appendix E: General Editorial and clarification of packaging
Tolerances Packaging parts exceeding the general tolerance. .
Construction
F1 Appendix F: How to Clarification of FSC requirement.
fulfil IKEA requirement Added Taiwan.
on More Sustainable Added a grace period for some critical
Sources countries.
© Inter IKEA Systems B.V. 2004-2017 Summary of Changes

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Specification Spec.

Issued by Signature Authorised by Signature Replaces:

Packaging – general requirements

About this specification

The following requirements shall be implemented by the stated date stamps:

© Inter IKEA Systems B.V. 2004-2017 Page 1 (86)

© Inter IKEA Systems B.V. 2004-2017 Page 2 (86)

1 Supplier Information Responsibility

4 Approved Packaging Materials

Table 3. Approved packaging materials

When corrugated packaging, paper pallets

© Inter IKEA Systems B.V. 2004-2017 Page 4 (86)

Table 3. Approved packaging materials

Paper (e.g. Totally Chlorine Free (TCF) or Elementary

Requirement concerning formaldehyde:

Requirement concerning formaldehyde:

Requirement according to ISPM 15, see

© Inter IKEA Systems B.V. 2004-2017 Page 5 (86)

Table 3. Approved packaging materials

Same requirements as foamed polyethylene

Same requirements as foamed polyethylene

© Inter IKEA Systems B.V. 2004-2017 Page 6 (86)

Table 3. Approved packaging materials

Maximum 300 ppm Formaldehyde according to

Maximum 300 ppm Formaldehyde according to

Maximum 300 ppm Formaldehyde according to

© Inter IKEA Systems B.V. 2004-2017 Page 7 (86)

Table 3. Approved packaging materials

© Inter IKEA Systems B.V. 2004-2017 Page 8 (86)

5 Packaging Materials Quality Requirements

Table 4 Corrugated Cardboard (CB) qualities 1

Table 4 Corrugated Cardboard (CB) qualities 1

5.2 Load Bearer Quality

Figure 1 Load Bearer (LB) sheet.

5.3 Plastic Material Quality

5.3.1 Shrink Film Quality

Table 6 Shrink Film (SH) for consumer packages qualities.

For test method, see IOS-TM-0033: Shrink Film Puncture Test.

5.3.2 Stretch Film Quality

Figure 2 Horizontal wrapping Figure 3 Vertical wrapping

5.3.3 Plastic Bag Quality

© Inter IKEA Systems B.V. 2004-2017 Page 12 (86)

5.3.4 Adhesive Tape Quality

Printing on tape is not allowed.

5.3.5 Strap Quality

5.4 Inside Filler

Fills an empty space

Note: The Cobb value is only valid for paper-based materials.

© Inter IKEA Systems B.V. 2004-2017 Page 13 (86)

6 Marking of Packaging Materials

6.1 General Placement of Marking

6.2 Marking Standard for Identification of Packaging Materials

© Inter IKEA Systems B.V. 2004-2017 Page 14 (86)

6.3 Suffocation warning symbol

Symbol according to AA-1882514

If the consumer packaging has a printing original, the marking

© Inter IKEA Systems B.V. 2004-2017 Page 15 (86)

6.4 The Green Dot

Symbol according to AA-1804098

© Inter IKEA Systems B.V. 2004-2017 Page 16 (86)

6.5 Marking Standard for Japan

Marking for plastic Marking for paper

Symbol according to: