Direct answer. Case packing (colisage) refers both to the operation of grouping sales units into a case (carton, crate) for transport, and to the document, packing list, that details the content, weight and dimensions of each case in a shipment. The two meanings are linked: one describes the action, the other the record of it.
The operation and the document, two sides of the same term
As an operation, case packing happens at the packing station: it involves determining how many consumer sales units (UVC) fit in a case, which container to use, and how to protect the goods. This unit count per case, often expressed as "case pack of 6" or "case pack of 24", is a logistics data point in its own right: it drives the calculation of how many cases fit on a pallet, hence how many pallets an order requires, and directly affects transport cost.
As a document, the packing list accompanies the shipment and lists, case by case, the references, quantities, weights and dimensions being transported, an essential document for the carrier, the recipient and customs formalities on international shipments, alongside the CMR consignment note. A poorly completed packing list (incorrect quantities, approximate weight) is a classic source of receiving disputes and customs delays.
Case packing also directly affects palletizing: knowing precisely the number and weight of cases per reference makes it possible to calculate how many layers and full pallets an order will occupy, a key figure for optimizing truck fill rate, a standard semi-trailer for example holds about 33 Euro pallets on the floor.
FAQ
What's the difference between case packing and a consumer sales unit?
The consumer sales unit (UVC) is the smallest unit purchased by the end customer. Case packing refers to grouping several sales units into a single case for transport, as well as the document that lists that content. A case pack of 12 means 12 sales units are grouped in the same carton.
What is a packing list?
It's the document that accompanies a shipment and details, case by case, the references, quantities, weights and dimensions being transported. It's used by the carrier and the recipient to check that the delivery is compliant, and required for customs formalities on international shipments.
Related terms
Packing · Consumer sales unit / merchandising unit (UVC/UM) · SKU · Palletizing · Kitting · Co-packing.
See also: logistics picking methods.
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