Table of Contents
- 1 PREAMBLE
- 2 PROCESS OF PACKAGING DEFINITION
- 3 BASIC REQUIREMENTS FOR PACKAGING DESIGN
- 3.1 Filling Capacity
- 3.2 Stacking
- 3.3 Loading
- 3.4 Delivery of Foamed Plastic
- 3.5 Identification
- 4 INCOMING GOODS PROCESS / 8D-REPORT
- 5 PACKAGING MATERIAL
- 5.1 Big Load Carrier
- 5.1.1 Pallets
- 5.1.2 Grid Boxes
- 5.1.3 Other Big Load Carrier
- 5.2 Small Load Carrier
- 5.2.1 VDA Plastic Bins
- 5.2.2 STIHL Plastic Bin For Plant D7 Deliveries
- 5.2.3 Small Cardboard Boxes
- 6 CONTAINER MANAGEMENT
1 PREAMBLE
The "Packaging Regulations for Deliveries" apply for all suppliers to plants 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 of ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG (hereinafter referred to as STIHL) and for logistics suppliers working for STIHL (e.g., DSV / Munz). They supplement the "Delivery Conditions" and the "STIHL Factory Standards" (SWN). These regulations describe the basic principles behind STIHL's packaging definitions and the requirements for supplementary packaging application by the supplier.
STIHL and its suppliers cooperate in fulfilling waste economy goals of environmental legislation according to the following ecological priorities:
- Avoidance: Restriction to the absolutely necessary in weight and volume (Conservation of resources and reduction of transport volume).
- Reduction: Use and continuous improvement of recyclable packaging material.
- Material utilization: Use of environmentally-friendly, recyclable materials for all types of packaging, with recycling as close to the place of use as possible to avoid return delivery chains and associated transports.
Packaging must be planned part-specifically according to logistics, quality assurance, environmental compatibility, economic efficiency, customer needs, and statutory regulations.
2 PROCESS OF PACKAGING DEFINITION
Packaging managers of production/distribution logistics are responsible for packaging definition at STIHL (see annex 1). Packaging must be defined for all material numbers before the first delivery. Suppliers must check for a valid packaging instruction before delivery and provide part-specific data or pictures when needed. The defined packaging must be used for all future orders. Consignments will be checked at STIHL's goods receiving area; deviations will result in complaints, and corrective actions may be charged to the supplier.
Exceptional packaging deviations require written approval from the packaging manager before delivery. Suppliers are obliged to support continuous improvements and changes. Each packaging definition/change is sent to the supplier in writing (see annex 2) and takes effect if no negative reaction is received within 10 working days. Suppliers must discuss any packaging changes with the STIHL packaging manager in advance.
3 BASIC REQUIREMENTS FOR PACKAGING DESIGN
Packaging must always fulfill the quality and technical requirements of the product, protecting it from dust, UV-radiation, corrosion, vibrations, mechanical forces, or electrical fields. The packer/sender is liable for delivery quality unless otherwise agreed. Packaging must be usable for LCL (less-than-carload freight) transports, withstand multiple material handling steps, and be suitable for overseas transports and sea containers. Re-usable packaging (e.g., plastic KLT or grid boxes) must not be soiled by transported products; PE-bags may be used for oiled parts. Disposable packaging must be free from contamination and completely emptied. Bags and cardboard boxes must not be closed with staples for safety reasons; welding or taping is permitted. Packaging should be easy to open, unpack, and dispose of. STIHL generally rejects packaging materials made of foodstuff (e.g., packing chips made of corn). All disposable packaging must be made of environmentally friendly and recyclable material accepted for comprehensive recycling (refer to annex 3). If "STIHL Factory Standards" (SWN) apply to certain parts, deliveries must comply with these SWN.
3.1 Filling Capacity
Filling quantity should be adapted to the packaging and maximized without restricting component quality or exceeding permissible total weights or maximum dimensions. Changes in filling quantities require discussion and agreement with the STIHL packaging manager.
3.2 Stacking
Packaging should be stackable, transport safe, and ensure easy handling. Pallets must be stackable for optimal usage of sea containers and truck transports. Small load carriers must adhere to guidelines in annexes 8/9/10. Stacks must be made of complete layers; the number of layers must not cause deformation or damage. Packages must be labeled if further stacking is not allowed. Stacks of disposable cardboard must comply with section 3.3.
3.3 Loading
To prevent damage, packed goods and packing material must not exceed pallet perimeters. Product-specific deviations require coordination with the packaging manager. Load security strapping must be plastic; metal straps or clips are not allowed. Horizontal edge protection is required. Alternatively, loads can be secured with PE film (stretching or shrinking), ensuring the film does not cover forklift fork clearance areas (refer to annex 6). Horizontal edge protection can be replaced by cover A 1208 for KLT pallets. Non-slip paper is not allowed for pallets with small load carriers. Internal films in KLT and grid boxes must not protrude beyond the load carrier.
3.4 Delivery of Foamed Plastic
Products or packaging containing foamed plastic (e.g., Styrofoam) must be delivered with cardboard sheets on all sides. This can be achieved via a closed pallet carton, a single cardboard box on a pallet, or a grid box lined with cardboard and closed from above. Contact the packaging manager for clarification on foamed plastic identification.
3.5 Identification
Each package (pallet, carton, bag, etc.) requires a clearly visible tag or sticker, preferably on the side. Big load carriers need labels on all four sides; grid boxes, foldable boxes (GP03), and pallets with small load carriers require labeling on two sides (one small, one long). Labels must conform to VDA Standard 4902 (annex 4), with minimum information including STIHL part number, STIHL part name, and quantity. Suppliers using EDI VDA 4913 must mark packages according to VDA Standard 4902. Label language should be German or English. Goods tags/labels must be paper or cardboard (min. 170g/m²), not taped onto reusable packaging (textile label dots are an exception). Holders should be used where provided. Tags/labels on disposable packaging should be pasted to prevent loss. All disposable packaging must bear standardized symbols (image and abbreviation per DIN 6120) recognized by the waste disposal industry, without impairing recyclability. Non-compliant tags must be removed. Additional/replacing tags require prior release. Packages with incomplete quantities must be labeled "Rest" or "Restmenge"; only one such package per delivery is allowed. Delivery of remaining quantities requires agreement with the material planner.
Multiple parts pallets/grid boxes require a packing list detailing material numbers and quantities, and must be clearly marked "multiple parts pallets". Different materials should be stacked for easy separation, with only one article per pallet. Individual boxes or intermediate layers should prevent mixing of articles. Delivery notes must accompany goods (e.g., in plastic bags/envelopes), and the truck driver must also have a delivery note.
4 INCOMING GOODS PROCESS / 8D-REPORT
Packaging units are checked regularly for quantity and condition. Transport and art packaging are accepted only if in good condition. Shipments not complying with agreements may be returned, with repacking costs charged to the supplier. Deviations in delivery conditions, packaging regulations, agreed packaging, identification, or goods condition will result in a quality notification and complaint. Complaint processing is handled via "Pool4Tool/Jaggaer" or email, requiring an 8D report. Suppliers not using Pool4Tool/Jaggaer will receive complaints via email.
5 PACKAGING MATERIAL
5.1 Big Load Carrier
Big load carriers include grid boxes, pallets, and similar packaging.
5.1.1 Pallets
Euro-pallets (1200x800mm) are preferred. Other pallet types require special approval from a STIHL packaging manager and must meet criteria for highly automated warehouses. Approved pallet types must be used for all future deliveries. Pallets must be undamaged, especially deck boards, blocks, and skids. No nails should protrude. Euro-pallet repairs are permitted only according to G-PAL standards. Only Euro-pallets corresponding to at least class B (G-PAL) are exchanged. Half-size pallets (600x800mm), INKA-Pallets, pallets made of LVL, and pallets made of cardboard are not allowed.
Pallet-size cardboard boxes must be stackable, withstand a 800 kg top-load, and be attached to the basic pallet. Stapling requires 8-12 staples. Wooden or cardboard stacking frames are not accepted or re-used. Supplier-owned plastic pallets are treated as single-use. All pallets must be ISPM 15 Standard (IPPC) treated with a burn-in sign (HT allowed), and verification must be available. Refer to "delivery conditions" for more details.
5.1.2 Grid Boxes
Only grid boxes according to DIN 15155 ('DB Grid Boxes') are allowed. Grid boxes should have a lining (e.g., cardboard or PE-bag) for product protection and must be closed on top. They must meet EPAL/GPAL exchange criteria.
5.1.3 Other Big Load Carrier (GLT)
Other big load carriers in use include steel tubs (WA01) and foldable plastic carriers (KTP, GP03). Steel tubs (WA01) must be checked for damage; use PE-bag lining for sensitive goods. WA01 is not allowed at plant D7. Foldable boxes KTP (GP03) require careful handling; remove empty packaging aids. Octabins and Big-Packs are used for plastic resin delivery, with specific dimensions; contact the packaging manager.
5.2 Small Load Carrier
Small load carriers include plastic bins, small cardboard boxes, and other packaging material.
5.2.1 VDA Plastic Bins
STIHL uses three types of plastic bins according to the C-series VDA 4500 standard. A KLT must not exceed a gross weight of 14 kg (KLT6/KLT8) or 12 kg (KLT9). The filling level must not exceed the inner stacking line. Covering material is acceptable if it cannot fly away at high speeds. VDA plastic bins are not delivered in plant D7.
5.2.2 STIHL Own Plastic Bin for Delivery in Plant D7
For deliveries of spare parts, promotional, and forestry items in plant D7, STIHL's own warehouse bins AKL1 can be used. These bins must be stacked on a pallet. Covering material is acceptable if it cannot fly away at high speeds.
5.2.3 Small Cardboard Boxes
Cardboard boxes must be closed with adhesive tape or plastic straps; metal straps or clips are not allowed. Boxes with separate, unattached lids or opening perforations are not permitted. Dimensions are defined in annex 9 and must be observed; deviations require coordination with the packaging manager. Boxes must have high stability and low tolerances. The cardboard quality must allow handling with a vacuum sucker. Box dimensions must be communicated to the packaging manager and will be attributed to material numbers for future deliveries.
6 CONTAINER MANAGEMENT
Guidelines for procurement, inventory, cleaning, and costs of re-usable bins and boxes are detailed in the "Agreement about the Circulation of Re-useable Bins and Boxes". Incoming Euro-pallets or grid boxes meeting EPAL criteria are settled in the container account or replaced with empties. STIHL reserves the right to refuse acceptance or charge suppliers for provable damage to boxes or bins. Suppliers must inform STIHL of any damage to re-usable bins or boxes using the form in annex 14.
Annex 1: Process of Packaging Definition
The process involves three main stages:
- Definition of Packaging: Includes STIHL's requirements, supplier suggestions, and definition of box/bin type and quantity.
- Documentation: Official packaging definition is provided by STIHL (Word document or supplier portal). The supplier integrates this information into their production or packaging process, including realization dates if needed.
- Delivery to STIHL: The first delivery is checked by the STIHL packaging manager for defined packaging and final approval. Continuous checks are performed by the STIHL incoming goods department for future deliveries.
Annex 2: Cover Letter for New Packaging Fixing
This annex provides a template for notifying suppliers of new packaging definitions. It outlines the part number and packaging description. Compliance with the new definition is mandatory from a specified date. Failure to comply may result in complaints and affect supplier evaluation. Objections must be raised within 10 working days. Suppliers are directed to STIHL's homepage for Delivery Conditions and Packaging Regulations.
Annex 3: Permitted / Non-permitted Materials
Type | Permitted Material | Examples of Materials Not Permitted |
---|---|---|
Fibrous materials | Papers and cardboards free of paper production pollutants. VCI papers (recyclable, protective paper with paper or cardboard). VCI: Volatile Corrosion Inhibitor. | Paper or cardboard with water insoluble coatings or adhesives. Paper with incompatible additives, incompatibly impregnated or saturated paper (e.g., bitumen paper). |
Plastics | Molded parts, Protective caps, Foils, Foams, Strapping tapes, VCI foil (use requires individual agreement with ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG). Materials: PE, PET, PP, PS, PA. | PVC, Impure plastics, Plastic fibers (glass fibers), PA plastic straps. |
Metals | Steel (also galvanized or lacquered), Aluminum. | |
Wood | Solid wood without impregnation, Plywood, Wood wool. | Wood, lacquered or coated. |
Textiles | Cellulose fibers (e.g., cotton, sisal, hemp). | Impregnated or coated cellulose (e.g., wax linen). |
Glass | Only if absolutely necessary due to chemical compatibility with the filled goods. |
Annex 4: Sample of VDA Goods Tag (VDA Standard 4902)
This annex illustrates the format of VDA goods tags for both pallet labels and bin/box labels. These labels contain detailed information such as recipient (Warenempfaenger), delivery note number (Lieferschein-Nr), customer part number (Sach-Nr Kunde), delivery description (Bezeichnung Lieferung), supplier part number (Sach-Nr Lieferant), quantity (Fuellmenge), date, and batch number (Chargen-Nr).
Annex 5: Pallets and Pallet-Size Cardboard Boxes
Euro-Pool-Pallet DIN 15146 | One-way-Pallet Basis DIN EN13382:2002 | Pallet-size Cardboard Box PK02 | Pallet-size Cardboard Box PK01 | |
---|---|---|---|---|
STIHL Name | Euro-Pallet EP01-EP03 EU05 – EU22 | Single-use pallet EW01-EW03 PS05 – PS22 | ||
Heat Treatment External Dimensions LxWxH [mm] | ISPM 15 according to IPPC (HT) 1200x800x150 | ISPM 15 according to IPPC (HT) 1175x750 – 1215x810* (See annex 6) | 1180x750x750 | 1180x750x400 |
Tare Weight [kg] | 25 | 18 | 10 | 6 |
Volume [l] | 618 | 322 | ||
Limit of Gross Weight [kg] | Plant D1,2,3,5,6,8: Max. 600* Plant D4: Max. 800* Plant D7: Max. 1.000 | Plant D1,2,3,5,6,8: Max. 600* Plant D4: Max. 800* Plant D7: Max. 1.000 | Plant D1,2,3,5,6,8: Max. 600* Plant D4: Max. 800* Plant D7: Max. 1.000 | Plant D1,2,3,5,6,8: Max. 600* Plant D4: Max. 800* Plant D7: Ma. 1.000 |
Stacking Empties | Max. 14 times | Max. 14 times | 2-times | 4-times |
Stacking Filled | Max. 1.000* Hazardous goods storage at DSV: max. 1400 | Max. 1.000* | ||
Max. Pallet Height [mm] | ||||
Bending with Gross Weight in Longitudinal Direction 1.000mm Clearance in Rack [mm] | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 |
Bending with Gross Weight in Transverse Direction [mm]** | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 |
* Higher weights must be approved by the packaging manager at STIHL.
** Requirement distribution logistic.
Annex 6: Single-Use Pallets
All types of single-use pallets require design release from a STIHL packaging manager. Pallets must conform to specific dimensions for use in STIHL warehouses. Diagrams illustrate examples for 800mm and 750mm wide pallets, showing dimensions for blocks, free spaces, and overall length/width. Further requirements include: 3 rows of wooden blocks, no cross boards at the bottom, no outstanding nails, quality equivalent to EPAL/GPAL minimum class "B", no LVL-wood, possibility of four-way entry, and adherence to bending limits.
Diagrams illustrate pallet bending limits: maximum 20 mm in the longitudinal direction and maximum 20 mm in the transverse direction.
Images depict: Four-way access for forklifts, the ISPM Treatment (HT) burn-in sign, and examples of stretch film blocking forklift fork clearance areas (with prohibition symbols).
Annex 7: Big Load Carrier (GLT)
DB-Grid Box Pallet DIN 15155 | Foldable Plastic Box KTP GP03 | Steel Tub Galvanized WA01 | |
---|---|---|---|
STIHL Name | Grid box GP01 | Foldable box KTP GP03 | Steel tub WA01 |
Inside Dimensions LxWxH [mm] | 1200x800x800 | 1190x790x795 | 800x500x600 |
Outside Dimensions LxWxH [mm] | 1240x835x910 | 1230x830x980 | 860x550x670 |
Tare Weight [kg] | 70 / 85 | 45 | 35 |
Volume [l] | 768 | 750 | 240 |
Limit of Gross Weight [kg] | Plant D1,2,3,5,6,8: Max. 600* Plant D4: Max. 800* Plant D7: Max. 1.000 | 350 | 800 |
Stacking Empties | Max. 6 times | Max. 14 times | Max. 5 times |
Stacking Filled | Max. 4 times | Max. 3 times | Max. 5 times |
* Higher weights must be approved by the packaging manager at STIHL.
Images show examples of a grid box, a foldable plastic box, and a steel tub.
Annex 8: Small Load Carrier – Bins According to VDA 4500
C-KLT 3214 | C-KLT 4321 | C-KLT 6421 | Cover Plate A1208 | |
---|---|---|---|---|
STIHL Name | Transport container KLT9 | Transport container KLT8 | Transport container KLT6 | Cover plate for KLT-Pallets |
Inner Dimensions LxWxH [mm] | 260x136x144 | 334x247x168 | 532x346x164 | 1200x800x95 |
Outside Dimensions LxWxH [mm] | 300x200x147.5 | 400x300x213 | 600x400x213 | 1204x807x95 |
Tare Weight [kg] | 0.7 | 2.0 | 3.7 | 6.1 |
Volume [l] | 4.6 | 14 | 30 | - |
Limit of Gross Weight [kg] | 12 | 14 | 14 | - |
Stacking Layout on Pallet | 16 Bins per Layer 2 Layer per Pallet = 32 Bins per Pallet | 8 Bins per Layer 4 Layer per Pallet = 32 Bins per Pallet | 4 Bins per Layer 4 Layer per Pallet = 16 Bins per Pallet |
Images show examples of the KLT bins and the cover plate.
Annex 9: Small Load Carrier – Cardboard Boxes
KLT Cardboard Box Size 9 KAR9 | KLT Cardboard Box Size 8 KAR8 | KLT Cardboard Box Size 6 KAR6 | |
---|---|---|---|
Outside Dimensions LxWxH [mm] | 292x193x145 +/- 5mm | 402x292x195 +/- 5mm | 600x402x195 +/- 5mm |
Quality | EB 2.40 or similar | EB 2.40 or similar | EB 2.40 or similar |
Possible Content-Load [kg] | 20 | 30 | 30 |
Possible Top-Load [kg] | 50 | 50 | 80 |
Closing Method | Top flaps taped | Top flaps taped | Top flaps taped |
Limit of Gross Weight [kg] | 12 | 14 | 14 |
Stacking Layout on Pallet | 16 Boxes per Layer 2 Layer per Pallet = 32 Boxes per Pallet | 8 Boxes per Layer 4 Layer per Pallet = 32 Boxes per Pallet | 4 Boxes per Layer 4 Layer per Pallet = 16 Boxes per Pallet |
Images show examples of the cardboard boxes.
Annex 10: Storage Bin Plant D7
Kunststoffbehälter für Werk D7 AKL1 | |
---|---|
STIHL Name | AKL1 |
Inner Dimensions LxWxH [mm] | 565x370x202 |
Outside Dimensions LxBxH [mm] | 600x400x220 |
Tare Weight [kg] | 2.5 |
Volume [l] | 42 |
Limit of Gross Weight [kg] | 30 |
Stacking Layout on Pallet | 4 Bins per Layer 4 Layers per Pallet = 16 Bins per Pallet |
An image shows the AKL1 storage bin.
Anlage 11a: Specialties with Small Load Carrier Deliveries
Illustrations show specific handling and packing requirements:
- The height of the material must not exceed the inner stacking line (indicated in red) of the plastic KLT.
- Bags must be closed properly.
- No material that can easily fly away should be loose.
- VDA-tags must be placed in the correct spot (indicated in red).
- Pallets with KLT must be secured with edge protection and straps (shown with a green checkmark).
Annex 11b: Plastic Bin for Delivery in Plant D7
Images illustrate correct and incorrect filling of plastic bins for delivery in plant D7:
- Bins must be filled to allow proper stacking (shown with green checkmarks).
- It must be ensured that no goods can slip out of the container through the handle opening (shown with red prohibition symbols for incorrect filling).
Anlage 12a: Exchange Criteria STIHL KLT
KLT bins meeting STIHL requirements for exchange must be: Undamaged, Clean, and have No labels. Deviations that disqualify a KLT for exchange include:
- Damage or Deformation: If the KLT is damaged or deformed (e.g., cracked ground or sides) to the extent that it is no longer serviceable or safe, it cannot be exchanged and must be disposed of by the owner.
- Pasted or Contaminated: KLTs that are pasted or contaminated may lead to complaints. Measures require removing contamination and old labels to a great extent, making labels unrecognizable, and cleaning the bin to prevent quality reduction of parts. "CLEAN" means reaming with a cloth with no soiling detached (free of oil, dust).
Anlage 12b: Grid Box Exchange Criteria
This annex, referencing www.GPAL.de, outlines criteria for grid box exchange, including EPAL quality assessment. Repairs are required for damage such as corrosion, deformed parts, defective bottoms, cracks in mesh, damaged front flaps, and incomplete data plates. Repaired EPAL grid boxes are identified by a green repair plaque. Images illustrate various damage types.
Annex 12c: Euro Pallets Exchange Criteria
This annex, referencing www.GPAL.de, details STIHL's additional remarks (in red) for Euro pallet exchange criteria, categorizing them into "NEU" (New), "KLASSE A" (Class A), and "KLASSE B" (Class B).
- NEU: Features include chamber-dried wood, ISPM 15/IPPC compliance, specific dimensions (800x1200x144mm), a guaranteed load of 1500kg, max 22% moisture, no usage marks, no wood splinters, even nail pattern, four corner edges chamfered, and corner markings (EPAL, EUR).
- KLASSE A: Characterized by light wood color, previous use, ISPM 15/IPPC not guaranteed, max 22% moisture. Shows usage marks but no contamination or wood splinters. Licensed repairs are permitted.
- KLASSE B: Features darker wood color (mixed colors acceptable in stacks), previous use, ISPM 15/IPPC not guaranteed, max 22% moisture. Allows usage marks and wood darkening. Licensed repairs are permitted.
Pallets not meeting these criteria will not be exchanged.
Annex 13: Interfaces of Quality Responsibility for Means of Transport
A diagram illustrates the flow of quality responsibility between STIHL, the Carrier, and the Supplier, involving transport tickets. Key points include:
- The recipient examines the means of transport at delivery.
- Deviations must be detected and recorded in writing immediately.
- Means of transport not meeting exchange criteria are recorded as "defective" and will not be exchanged.
- Hidden defects (e.g., in KLT) must be reported via an 8D-report.
- The owner of the means of transport is liable for its quality.
- Necessary quality measures must be initiated by the owner.
Annex 14: 8D-Report Re-usable Bins or Boxes
This annex provides a template for an 8D-Report concerning re-usable bins or boxes, detailing the process for quality securing of transport means in case of deviations. It includes fields for customer information (STIHL), supplier details, problem description, cause(s), short-term and long-term measures, proof of effectiveness, and measures for avoiding repeated failures.
Annex 15: VDA 8D-Report Blank Template
This annex provides a blank template for an 8D-Report for suppliers. It includes sections for concern title, report date, team information, part details, problem description, containment actions, root causes, permanent corrective actions, verification, and team success acknowledgment. Fields for percentage effect, contribution, implementation dates, and controls are also present.