Vendor Compliance Manual
The JD Finish Line Vendor Compliance Manual defines the supply chain requirements and procedures of JD Finish Line d/b/a Finish Line and JD Sports. The requirements set forth in this Manual ensure vendors deliver to JD Finish Line merchandise in “Ready to Sell” condition. Full compliance with this Manual by our vendors is a condition to doing business with JD Finish Line. Compliance with this Manual by vendors ensures effective supply chain management, facilitating the efficient transfer of merchandise from our vendors and ultimately to our customers.
This Manual is incorporated into JD Finish Line’s Merchandise Standard Purchase Order Terms and Conditions (the “PO Terms”), which are a part of each and govern purchase orders submitted by JD Finish Line and accepted by vendors.
Thank you in advance for your cooperation and compliance. We look forward to working together as we continue to grow our businesses.
Click here to view a full .pdf copy of the Vendor Compliance manual
I. INTRODUCTION
This JD Finish Line Vendor Compliance Manual defines the supply chain requirements and procedures of JD Finish Line, Inc. d/b/a Finish Line and JD Sports ("JD Finish Line"). The requirements set forth in this Manual ensure vendors deliver to JD Finish Line merchandise in “Ready to Sell” condition. Full compliance with this Manual by our vendors is a condition of doing business with JD Finish Line. Compliance with this Manual by vendors ensures effective supply chain management, facilitating the efficient transfer of merchandise from our vendors and ultimately to our customers.
This Manual is incorporated into JD Finish Line’s Merchandise Standard Purchase Order Terms and Conditions (the “PO Terms”), which are a part of each and govern purchase order submitted by JD Finish Line and accepted by vendors.
This Manual is available on JD Finish Line’s Vendor Website at vendor.finishline.com. JD Finish Line reserves the right to modify this Manual at any time and will post the current version of the Vendor Compliance Manual on the Vendor Website. JD Finish Line may provide advance notice to the Vendor of any material changes to the Vendor Compliance Manual via email. All changes to the Vendor Compliance Manual will be effective when posted on the Vendor Website (unless otherwise indicated on the Vendor Website).
Vendor’s acceptance of each purchase order from JD Finish Line shall constitute acknowledgement and acceptance of the then-current Vendor Compliance Manual, the PO Terms and JD Finish Line’s Vendor Code of Conduct (collectively, the “JD Finish Line Terms”), all of which shall be binding on vendor upon such acceptance (subject only to an express written agreement modifying the JD Finish Line Terms by and between JD Finish Line and vendor executed by each party’s duly authorized representative as described in the PO Terms).
All Vendor inquiries concerning this Manual may be sent via e-mail to vendorrelations@finishline.com. We encourage you to bookmark the Vendor Website and recommend checking regularly for updates. If you have any changes or updates within your company that may impact your ability to comply with the Vendor Compliance Manual, please complete a revised vendor information form and submit it to vendorrelations@finishline.com.
If you have any questions regarding the policies in this Vendor Compliance Manual, refer to our contacts page, or you may, please e-mail us at vendorrelations@finishline.com.
Thank you in advance for your cooperation and compliance. We look forward to working together as we continue to grow our businesses.
This documentation and our web site are the property of JD Finish Line and its subsidiaries. Its purpose is to provide up-to-date communications to our vendors.
II. Electronic Data Interchange (EDI)
We require vendors to trade documents electronically. All documents used by us will be according to 004010VICS standards. We do not support any documents lower than 004010VICS. JD Finish Line uses a 3rd Party provider, OpenText/GXS, for our EDI:
Email: mssupport@gsx.com
Phone: (800) 334-2255, Option #2
Address: 9711 Washingtonian Boulevard, Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Set up and testing EDI
In order to be set up on EDI with the JD Finish Line, you must first have a valid vendor ID number. Use the vendor number to complete the New EDI Setup Request form.
The vendor must completely fill out the setup form and select:
TRADITIONAL EDI or WEB SERVICES
Test and production qualifiers and ID’s
Your van or service provider
Your contact information
If you use a 3rd party provider of EDI include their contact information as well
Upon completion of the setup request form, we will forward your information to GXS. GXS will contact the person listed on the form and let them know how to obtain mapping documents and how testing will proceed. Vendors are responsible for any EDI fees charged by GXS. When testing is completed, GXS will send an email to both the vendor partner and JD Finish Line. JD Finish Line will contact the vendor’s contact to coordinate a “Go Live” date.
Transaction Types
We exchange the following EDI Documents
850 – PO Add
856 – Advance Ship Notification (ASN)
810 – Invoice
Other Information
VENDOR NUMBER - The vendor number, assigned by JD Finish Line will be sent to you in the REF02 segment with an IA qualifier. This vendor number MUST be included on all EDI documents you send to us.
DEPARTMENT NUMBER - Department number on the EDI 850 document is sent in the N9 segment in the Detail section.
EDI 856 - Advanced Ship Notice (ASN)
JD Finish Line requires a consolidated EDI856 (ASN) with carton and UPC/GTIN/EAN level information for every shipment sent to a distribution center or directly to a store. An EDI856 must be transmitted and successfully accepted within 24 hours of the purchase order leaving the vendor shipping dock or before the purchase order arrives at the delivery location, whichever is sooner. JD Finish Line retrieves inbound EDI data frequently. However, vendors are instructed to allow three (3) hours of data processing time. It is recommended that EDI856 (ASN) transmissions be sent immediately after the truck door has closed.
EDI856 (ASN) transmissions for merchandise shipped by any mode other than small package must be consolidated by BOL. A separate EDI856 (ASN) must be provided for each BOL. For multiple truckloads, a unique BOL must be assigned to each trailer and therefore separate EDI856 (ASN) documents transmitted.
EDI856 (ASN) transmissions for merchandise shipped via truckload carriers must have only one EDI856 (ASN) per BOL with the BOL number transmitted in REF 02 using both the BM and CN qualifiers. If one trailer has multiple ship-to locations, one EDI856 (ASN) transmission per location per trailer is acceptable.
EDI856 (ASN) transmissions for merchandise shipped via less-than-truckload carriers must have only one EDI856 (ASN) per BOL with the BOL number transmitted in REF 02 using the BM qualifier and the LTL pro number transmitted in REF 02 using the CN qualifier. If one trailer has multiple ship-to locations, one EDI856 (ASN) transmission per location per trailer is acceptable.
EDI856 (ASN) transmissions for merchandise shipped via small package carrier must have one EDI856 (ASN) per each carton with the tracking number transmitted in REF 02, using the CN qualifier.
EDI856 (ASN) header shipment ID must be unique to each ASN transmitted. Reusing shipment ID numbers is prohibited and may result in chargeback fees.
Carton identification numbers are expected to remain within JD Finish Line supply chain for a period of up to one year. Re-use of any carton identification numbers during a one year period will result in chargeback fees.
To maintain the integrity of the JD Finish Line EDI documentation program, it is imperative that all EDI856 (ASN) and corresponding GS1-128 data, including physical labels, are timely and accurate.
Failure to comply with these requirements will result in a chargeback.
Master UPC Number
A Master UPC is sent when the product is to be pre-packed.
Pre-pack orders begin with 99
The master UPC is located at PO107 when PO103 = CA, and has an IT qualifier in PO106.
JD Finish Line will only send one style/color per pre-pack purchase order.
The master UPC sent is 11 digits. To calculate the 12th check digit, several online tools exist. You might try one of the following:
https://www.upcdatabase.com/checkdigit.asp
http://www.gtin.info/check-digit-calculator/
Non–EDI Vendors
All purchase orders will be sent out via EDI (or e-mail if requested for a special circumstance). If you are not able to receive/transmit traditional EDI documents please use the Global Vendor Portal Solution (aka Web EDI) provided by OpenText/GXS. This will allow you to receive JD Finish Line POs online as well as provide the required EDI ASN and Invoice documents using web-based tools. Selecting the web solution option on the New EDI Setup Request form will prompt OpenText/GXS to reach out to the provided contact person regarding setup and usage of these tools.
All data on purchase orders should be carefully checked upon receipt in order to avoid unnecessary chargebacks.
Matching EDI Documents to Create Tickets
Use this page to match the data transmitted by JD Finish Line via EDI to create your tickets and labels. This information comes from the 850 mapping documents.
Matching EDI Documents to Create GS1-128 Labels
Matching EDI Documents to Create Solid Order Labels
GS1-128 labels are required. If all required information cannot fit on a GS1-128 label, use a carton content label for the remaining information that does not fit on the GS1-128 label.
The Carton Content Label is same as Zone E.
Required Information on a shipping label is:
JD Finish Line Purchase Order Number
JD Finish Line Style from Purchase Order
JD Finish Line Color Code from Purchase Order
Product Size in the Carton
Total Quantity in Carton
Matching EDI Documents to Create Inner-Pack Labels
GS1-128 labels are required. If all required information cannot fit on a GS1-128 label, use a carton content label for the remaining information that does not fit on the GS1-128 label.
The Carton Content Label is same as Zone E.
Required Information on a shipping label is:
JD Finish Line Purchase Order Number
JD Finish Line Style from Purchase Order
JD Finish Line Color Code from Purchase Order
Product Size in the Carton
Total Quantity in Carton
Inner Packs – See Inner-pack Label
Matching EDI Documents to Create Pre-Pack Footwear Labels
GS1-128 labels are required. If all required information cannot fit on a GS1-128 label, use a carton content label for the remaining information that does not fit on the GS1-128 label.
The Carton Content Label is same as Zone E.
Required Information on a shipping label is:
JD Finish Line Purchase Order Number
JD Finish Line Style from Purchase Order
JD Finish Line Color Code from Purchase Order
Sizes – Do not mix sizes unless the PO is a Pre-pack
Size Run
Total Quantity in Carton
Matching EDI Documents to Create Pre-Pack Apparel Labels
GS1-128 labels are required. If all required information cannot fit on a GS1-128 label, use a carton content label for the remaining information that does not fit on the GS1-128 label.
The Carton Content Label is same as Zone E.
Required Information on a shipping label is:
JD Finish Line Purchase Order Number
JD Finish Line Style from Purchase Order
JD Finish Line Color Code from Purchase Order
Sizes – Do not mix sizes unless the PO is a Pre-pack
Size Run
Total Quantity in Carton
III. Merchandise Ticketing and Labeling
Tags and labels are required because they provide accurate inventory control information which allows your product to flow quickly and efficiently to our retail stores. All products must be properly ticketed, packaged, and packed prior to being shipped to our distribution center. All products should follow the specifications and requirements set forth within this manual and any additional buyer instructions. We reserve the right to a chargeback for any merchandise arriving at our distribution center that has been incorrectly ticketed, packaged, packed, or labeled, as specified in this manual and/or on the JD Finish Line purchase order.
The vendor is responsible for obtaining a UPC Bar code number, the JD Finish Line style, color code, size, department number, and the retail price from our purchase order and attaching the information on a tag or label. The vendor is also responsible for checking and verifying that the information from the JD Finish Line purchase order matches the tags when the JD Finish Line utilizes a vendors’ information. In the case where a 3rd party or ticketing supplier prints tickets and/or labels, the vendor is responsible to make sure the information is printed and applied correctly. Every effort is made by the suppliers to ensure errors do not happen; however, the vendor is responsible for making sure the correct information and labels are placed on the merchandise.
Below is the recommended ticketing supplier:
FINELINE TECHNOLOGIES 3145 Medlock Bridge Road. Norcross, GA. 30071 Phone: (800) 500-8687 Fax (678) 969-9201 E-mail: Orders@finelinetech.com Visit their Web site at Finelineprintinggroup.com
FINELINE TECHNOLOGIES LLC LTD - ASIA Unit 19-21, 21 F Corporation Park 11 On Lai Street, Shatin, Hong Kong Phone 852-21569788 Fax 852-21569166 Web Site: Finelineprintinggroup.com
We recommend private label vendors use Fineline Technologies to order their tickets.
If you produce tags that look different than the examples in this manual, they must be approved by e-mailing vendorrelations@finishline.com.
Do not ship un-ticketed merchandise. If you ship un-ticketed merchandise, you will incur a chargeback fee. If you have any questions, please contact the JD Finish Line buyer as noted on the purchase order or e-mail vendorrelations@finishline.com.
Obtaining UPC Bar codes
In order to establish your UPC catalog with GXS, you may contact GXS directly by calling (877) 446-6847 option #4. Identify yourself as a JD Finish Line vendor. Once you have submitted your company information to a representative, it will take about 48 – 72 hours to establish your account and receive the welcome packet via EDI.
Ticket Types
There are five (5) different ticket types described below and can be seen on subsequesnt pages..
Standard label
A standard label is used when a UPC BarCode and Size are on a shoebox.
A standard label is mainly used by footwear vendors.
Barcode label
Is used by all vendors.
Contains all required information and may be applied to vendor hang tags, poly bags, shoe boxes, inner packs, inner boxes, underneath baseball cap bills, etc.
Should only be used if no other UPC code is on the product.
Price tag
A price tag is mainly used by apparel vendors.
Has all required information on it and is the same format as the bar code label.
The only difference between a barcode label and a price tag is the type of ticket stock it is printed on.
Small accessory label
Is used for accessories.
The small accessory label is used on NON-sized items such as sunglasses, watches, wristbands, pennants, jewelry, and smaller accessory items.
Master UPC label
The master UPC label is used on any purchase order that begins with the numbers “99”.
The master UPC label is applied to the pre-pack or pick-unit.
The master UPC label is the parent SKU for the child SKUs inside a pre-pack.
We use this label to pick the product.
When there is only one pre-pack in a carton, the master UPC label may be included on the shipping label.
Notes and Other Information
The majority of apparel vendors will use the price tag which is attached with a minimum 3” long plastic fastener.
If preferred, a barcode label may be applied to your information / hang-tag.
If your hang-tag has a UPC bar code and size on it, you may use the standard label.
We want the style and color code information on the same side as the UPC; however, we do not want two UPC bar codes showing. In other words, you do not need to duplicate information on a sticker that is already on the hang-tag.
The small accessory label should be used when your product is too small for the normal tags and the normal 1” x 1.5” tag does not fit.
Sunglass vendors or jewelry vendors may use “rat tail” tags as long as the bar codes are within requirements.
Layouts are preferred but are not mandatory. All fields may be left justified.
Do not cover up the UPC, size, or any descriptive information when applying any labels.
Although the exact ticket size is not mandatory, vendors should make every effort to keep the size as close as possible to the ticket size shown.
Only one bar code should be visible. Do not apply or show multiple bar codes.
Purchase orders beginning with “99” are PrePack purchase orders and REQUIRE a master UPC label.
A master UPC label is to be applied to the pre-pack (pick unit) when the product is packed in a pre-packed carton or poly bag.
Master UPC labels should be placed in the middle on the front of the poly-bag or “pick unit”. This UPC is created by The Finish Line system when the purchase order is generated.
Inner packs should be polybagged together, with an additional barcoded label in the middle of the front of the poly-bag. This UPC is the same as what is on the product inside the bundle.
Ticket Layouts
Ticketing Fields
Style: The JD Finish Line style number as shown on the purchase order. Preferred style length is an 8 digit or less alphanumeric field.
Color code: The JD Finish Line color code as shown on the purchase order. The color code is a 3 digit alphanumeric field. This is NOT a color description. Vendors are strongly urged to utilize the National Retailers Federation color code.
Department: The JD Finish Line department number as shown on the purchase order. Department number is a 3 digit numeric field.
Retail Price: The retail price of the product as shown on the purchase order. If the MSRP is used, vendors should check the purchase order upon receipt to ensure it matches. However, the MSRP can be stated $0.01 above the buyer’s purchase order price.
Size: The JD Finish Line size as shown on the purchase order.
Any discrepancies between The JD Finish Line size and the vendor’s size should be brought to the buyers’ attention at the time the order is written or received.
UPC Bar Code: A UPC “Type A” bar code made up of a 12 digit numeric code that identifies the product as noted on the JD Finish Line purchase order. The UPC bar code for the master UPC label is also a Type A bar code.
Ticket Barcode Requirements
All bar codes on all tickets should fall within the following requirements.
The JD Finish Line uses a barcode verifier that measures the quality of the bar codes which is expressed in a letter grade. This ensures that the bar code will scan successfully. JD Finish Line Inc. has set the standards at a minimum quality measurement of A or B for the bar codes on tickets. If your UPC bar code does not register a passing grade of A or B on the verifier we will re-ticket the product and apply a chargeback for ticketing changes.
Minimum Dimensions
The minimum height of a barcode should be .5 or ½ inches.
The minimum width of a barcode should be 7/8 inches.
Not less than a 0.009 density
Preferred dimensions
The Height of an ideal barcode should be .6 or 5/8 inches.
The Width of an ideal barcode should be 1.25 inches.
About a density of 0.013
Maximum Dimensions
The maximum height of a barcode should be 1.25 inches.
The maximum width of a barcode should be 1.75 inches.
About a density of 0.018
According to the GS1 web site, the target dimensions for UPC bar code symbols are 1.020” high and 1.469” wide. The minimum dimensions for the symbol are 0.816” high and 1.175” wide. The maximum dimensions for the symbol are 2.040” high and 2.938” wide. If you have questions please visit the GS1 website.
Ticket Placement - Shoe Boxes
Labels should be placed on the shoebox in the lower right-hand corner. Do not cover the UPC bar code or any other vital information. If for some reason the lower right-hand corner is not available, then use the lower left-hand corner of the box. If neither placement is available for the above reasons, you may place the label on the lid only if the lid is attached to the shoe box. Contact us at vendorrelations@finishline.com if there is no available area for label placement.
Ticket Placement – Apparel
Price tags should be swift-tacked with a 3” or longer plastic fastener, through the manufacturer’s care label at the neck, or through the manufacturer's care label at the waistband. For items without care labels, tickets/tags should be swift-tacked with a 3” or longer plastic fastener through the inside seam of the back neckline for tops/shirts or the inside seam of the back waistline for pants/bottoms. All tickets/tags must be able to be tucked inside the garment. Extreme care should be taken not to damage the product or put the swift tack through the thread causing it to break.
If you have a UPC barcode and size on your hangtag, you may place a standard label on the same side as the UPC. If you do not have a UPC and Size on your hangtag, use the price tag or the barcode label.
All solid orders for Apparel MUST be individually folded, tagged, and poly-bagged, with the UPC barcode fully visible through the bag.
Inner-packs may be polybagged together, with an additional barcode tag in the middle of the outside of the polybag. Tags on the products should be hidden in this instance. In other words, two UPC codes should not show at the same time. A chargeback for multiple UPC’s showing will be incurred.
PLASTIC CLIPS, STRAIGHT PINS, and HANGERS must NOT be on the product. A chargeback will be incurred.
**Note: All tickets/tags must be able to be tucked inside of the garment.
Ticket Placement – Accessories
When applying accessory price tags or labels, care must be used to ensure valuable consumer information or product information is not obstructed. The labels should also be placed so the customer can easily see the retail price.
Caps / Visors: A barcode label should be affixed on the flat side, underneath the bill of the hat. Do not place on stitching or anything that would cause the label to come loose.
Belts: Must be on riders with a price tag attached to the buckle. Do not use sticky labels on belts.
Bucket Hats: A barcode label should be affixed on the flat side, underneath the bill of the hat. Do not place on stitching or anything that would cause the label to come loose.
Knit Hats: Swift tacked with price tag through the seam on top.
Jewelry: Should be carded with a barcode or accessory label centered on the back of a card.
Bags/Backpacks: Swift tack a price tag or attach a short plastic fastener to zipper pull.
Socks In Bands: Tickets should be placed on the back band and not obstruct vital information.
Socks In Bags: Place ticket on the front or back of the package in the upper right-hand corner so it does not obstruct any vital information.
Boxed Sunglasses: Place in the lower right-hand corner of the short end of the box.
Bagged Sunglasses: On the front or back of the bag in the upper right-hand corner without covering up vital information or use a rat tail tag attached to the bridge or stem.
Sunglasses (Other): Bridge tags across the nose or use Butterfly tags attached to the stem
Insoles: On front or back of the package in the upper right-hand corner without covering up any vital information.
Watches: Two tags are used – one on the bottom of the box or package, and an industry-standard “jewelry” price tag attached to watch.
Master UPC Label: The master UPC label should be affixed to the “pick unit”. If there is one item in the carton then it should be on the carton as the carton is the pick unit. If there are multiple pre-packs inside a master carton then it would be on the pre-pack. Place the master UPC label in the middle of the pre-pack (i.e. middle of the polybag).
General: UPC labels must be easily visible and are facing UP in the same direction when packaging any items (i.e. boxes, bubble packs, etc.).
Unique Items: If there is uncertainty about the placement of a ticket or label, please contact the appropriate buyer or e-mail us at vendorrelations@finishline.com.
IV. Carton Packing Instructions
All cartons must be adequately manufactured, labeled, and otherwise marked to ensure that product is delivered to our Distribution Center in-store “Ready to Sell” condition. Deviations from the following guidelines could result in expenses and delays not included in our cost-of-product and will be charged back to the vendor. ITEMS MUST NOT BE SHIPPED WITHOUT TICKETS, LABELS, OR UPC BARCODES. Chargebacks will occur should this happen.
All products are to be packed and labeled as per compliance and purchase order instructions.
Cartons should be loaded onto trailers or containers BY PURCHASE ORDER NUMBER. DO NOT MIX PO’s. It is understood there could be a row where purchase orders “overlap” due to the end loading of one purchase order and the beginning of another. Pictures of this violation cannot be taken; therefore, a management team member will come to the trailer to visually inspect this violation and sign off on the vendor compliance form.
Maximum carton size requirements are: L + 2W + 2H cannot exceed 104" combined
Minimum carton size requirements are: 12” length x 8” height x 12” width 304.800 mm x 203.200 mm x 304.800 mm
Minimum and maximum carton dimensions are set by the manufacturer of our conveyor system. Cartons not meeting carton size requirements will be charged back for additional handling.
The weight of each carton, including contents, must not exceed 50 lbs /22.680 Kg.
Packing corrugate must be a minimum of 200 lbs. test and be clean corrugated cardboard. If cartons are crushed, degraded or do not “hold shape” a chargeback will be issued.
Cartons should be sealed with good quality tape similar to P.V.C. tape and/or reinforced paper tape.
The use of carton inserts above and below merchandise, particularly apparel, is required. This protects the contents from knife cuts when the carton is opened. Non-compliance will incur chargebacks.
Cartons should NOT be secured with straps.
Cartons should be uniform in size and quantity. Failure to comply will result in chargebacks.
We encourage the use of green, recyclable or biodegradable packing materials when possible.
The vendor’s representative or account executive should work with their customer service teams to put in place standards to recognize purchase orders that may cause cartons to be “out of compliance” with respect to weight, dimensions, carton strength, etc. Especially regarding pre-pack quantities. Under exceptional circumstances, a “Prior to Shipment” waiver may be allowed to prevent impending chargebacks for non-compliance. This will be handled on a case-by-case basis.
Upon receipt of the Purchase Order, all data and information should be carefully reviewed in order to avoid unnecessary chargebacks
Soft Goods Packing Instructions
All products are to be packed and labeled as per compliance and purchase order/buyer instructions.
Solid Order items must be packed in Individual poly bags, with the bar code of the price tag facing up so it may be scanned through the polybag.
Barcodes that have to be turned, dug out, or are hidden will be charged for handling.
Inner-pack items have to be individually polybagged AND should be packed in a master polybag with an additional UPC sticker placed in the middle of the bag. (This helps identify this product is a multiple) Price tags on the product inside a master polybag should be hidden.
Pre-packed items should be packed in a master polybag with the master UPC Label placed in the middle of the bag. Bar codes/price tags on products inside a master polybag should be hidden.
Inner-packs and pre-packs should use a master polybag or box so that the “pick unit” is polybagged or boxed.
An additional UPC label (inner pack) or master UPC label (pre-pack) is required on the inner pack or pre-pack.
All apparel items should be put into poly bags that are at least 0.03 to 0.04 mm in thickness.
Larger or master poly bags should have a thickness in accordance with the weight of the product. If necessary, use lightweight cardboard boxes for strength or protection.
Polybags are to be self-sealed or taped so they do not open. They may be heat sealed if desired.
Merchandise should NOT be shipped on hangers. A charge will be incurred for removal.
No straight pins, plastic clips, or hangers should be on the garments.
To protect contents of the carton from knife cuts, the use of carton inserts above and below merchandise is required.
Product styles should not be mixed in cartons.
Product sizes should not be mixed in cartons. (Pre-packed PO’s are the only exception)
Pre-pack purchase orders begin with “99”.
Product colors are not to be mixed in cartons (unless buyer authorizes it or orders an “assortment”).
When packing all items, make sure the UPC’s are visible and facing UP in the master carton or case.
Merchandise should be packaged to prevent concealed loss or damage.
A standard carton should hold as many units, Inner packs, or pre-packs as possible without exceeding the maximum carton dimensions or carton weight restrictions.
Merchandise is to be packed in consistent quantities across the size range ordered. i.e. Pack merchandise so cartons all have the same consistent quantity.
Footwear Example - 160 pair ordered - pack 13 cartons of 12 pair each and one remnant carton of 4 pair. Or, pack 16 cartons of 10 each.
Apparel Example – 160 units ordered - pack 3 cartons of 48 pieces, and one carton of 16 pieces. Or, pack 5 cartons of 32 units, as long as all sizes are packed in 32 piece quantities.
Vendors are allowed one (1) remnant carton per size.
All remnant cartons permitted under our guidelines must be clearly marked as to content and further identified with a different colored label or tape.
Minimum carton dimensions may be excluded on remnant cartons provided vendors do not exceed one carton per size.
It is advised you contact us via e-mail (vendorrelations@finishline.com) prior to shipping with any questions, situations or unusual circumstances that arise.
Exceptions or waivers to the merchandise packing instructions must be approved by an inbound manager, the vendor relationship manager or the senior director of warehouse operations.
Order Types
Solid Order – The PO number begins with 113 - 118 for footwear, 415 for apparel, or 801 for accessories. The carton is packed with all of the same style/color/size with the same SKU or UPC.
Inner-pack Order –- Mostly used in apparel or accessories. The PO number begins 415 for apparel or 801 for accessories. An inner-pack order is like a solid order but the vendor is instructed by the buyer to package or wrap a quantity of the same size together; e.g., 2 sweatshirts, 3 tees, 6 socks, etc. This breaks a larger carton into smaller pick quantities so that a carton of 48 is broken down to 16 inner-packs of 3. Inner pack orders require an additional UPC bar code (same as on product) on the inner pack.
Pre-pack Order – All pre-pack purchase orders begin with 99. A pre-pack is the same style and color but different sizes in a pre-determined size range and quantity. Pre-pack orders require a master UPC bar code label on the master carton.
** NOTE: Unless otherwise specified by the buyer, merchandise should be packed as “solid” cartons or “solid inner-packs” with consistent quantities throughout all cartons as directed by The JD Finish Line Inc. purchase order with only ONE (1) style, color, and size in each carton (UPC). Pre-pack orders are excluded from the size requirement.
Packing Slip Instructions
All shipments should include packing slips.
Two copies of the packing slip should be included with shipments. One copy should be attached to the bill of lading accompanying the shipment. The other copy should be attached to the lead carton of the purchase order.
If there are multiple purchase orders, the lead carton of each purchase order should have a packing slip attached for that order. If a purchase order is on more than one truck due to the size of the shipment, you will need a separate packing-slip for each truck.
Summarize the packing slip by style/color/ size for each purchase order. All packing slips should include the following information:
1) Shipment Date
2) CarrierName
3) Pro number or container number
4) JD Finish Line purchase order number
5) JD Finish Line style number
6) JD Finish Line color code
7) The total quantity by size.
8) The total number of cartons
9) Individual cartons by size.
10) Include JD Finish Line SKU or UPC if possible
Label Placement – Shipping Cartons
All shipping labels must meet the following requirements:
Shipping labels must be placed in the lower right-hand corner of the long end of the carton.
A standard GS1-128 shipping label is required with minimum grade quality of ‘B.’
GS1-128 carton numbers must be 20 digits long.
Standard shipping labels, 6” high by 4” wide, should be used.
Labels should be white with black lettering.
Font size & labels should be legible (not handwritten) and EASY TO READ
Font size 24 is preferred
Minimum font size 12
Place the shipping label in the lower right-hand corner of the long end of the carton.
If any additional labels (i.e., a carton content label) are needed, place it next to and to the left of the GS1-128 label.
Carton content labels should be used when required information can not fit on a GS1-128 label.
Information does not have to be duplicated on a label if it is shown near the label. IE Carton Markings.
The following information is required on a shipping label:
JD Finish Line Purchase Order Number
JD Finish Line Style Number from the Purchase Order
JD Finish Line Color Code from the Purchase Order
JD Finish Line Size or Sizes in Carton.
The Quantity by Size that is in the Carton
The Total Quantity
The Carton Count (1 of 150, 2 of 150, 3 of 150, etc.)
Inner Packs inside must be noted on the carton label that the order has inner packs inside
The shipping label should also include the following information:
The vendor’s name and ship from address or the Shipper / Division / Manufacturer’s Name and Address.
Consignee: The JD Finish Line Distribution, Inc., 3308 N. Mitthoeffer Road, Indianapolis, IN 46235
The store number for our DC #901 must be included on the shipping label
Postal code in barcode format (if possible).
Carrier information
Shipping Label Examples
Shipping Label Examples - Inner-pack and Prepack
Required Information on a shipping label is:
JD Finish Line purchase order number
JD Finish Line style from purchase order
JD Finish Line color code from purchase order
Product size in carton
Total quantity in carton
Inner packs – Note inner packs are inside
All Pre-pack PO’s begin with “99”
Shipping Label Examples - Apparel Prepack
Information may be left justified.
GS1-128 labels are required. If you cannot fit all required information on a GS1-128 label use a carton content label for the required information you can not fit.
The Carton Content Label is same as Zone E on the GS1-128 Label
Required Information on a shipping label is:
JD Finish Line purchase order number
JD Finish Line style from purchase order
JD Finish Line color code from purchase order
Sizes – Do not mix sizes unless PO is a pre-pack
Size run
Total quantity in carton
Packing Footwear - Solid Orders
Solid order Footwear cartons should be packed with ONLY ONE (1) style, color, and size in each carton.
All UPC Codes must face Upward. You may turn a row opposite to better accommodate box lids.
Packing Footwear – Pre-pack Orders
All pre-pack purchase orders begin with “99”.
Pre-pack orders should be packed, in the size run/pre-pack as dictated by the purchase order.
Pre-packs must have only one style/color of merchandise in a size range and quantities ordered in the pre-pack.
The master carton should hold ONLY (1) size run. (One pre-pack per carton)
A master UPC label must be on the pre-pack or “pick unit”.
Vendors may incorporate this UPC code onto their GS1-128 or carton content label.
If not incorporated, place master UPC label next to GS1-128 or carton content label.
All UPC codes must face up. You may turn a row opposite to better accommodate box lids.
Packing Apparel – Solid Orders
A master carton should hold as many units as possible without exceeding weight (50 lbs.) or carton size restrictions.
Solid order apparel cartons should be packed with only one style, one color, and one size in each carton as dictated by the purchase order.
Apparel items should be packed in individual poly bags with the price tag bar code facing up so it may be scanned through the polybag. Bar codes that have to be turned, dug out, or are hidden will be subject to handling chargebacks.
Packing Apparel – Inner Pack Orders
Inner packs are all the same size.
Inner packs should be polybagged together with an additional barcoded tag in the middle of the outside of the polybag.
Place as many inner packs in a carton as possible without exceeding the weight (50 lbs.) or carton size restrictions.
The buyer will instruct you as to the quantities by size, and when you are to pack a PO in inner packs.
Packing Apparel – Pre-pack Orders
All pre-pack purchase orders begin with 99.
Pre-pack orders should be packed in the size run or “pre-pack” as dictated by the purchase order.
Pre-packs must have only one style/color of merchandise in a size range and quantities ordered in the pre-pack.
The master carton should hold only one size run. (One pre-pack per carton)
A master UPC label must be on the pre-pack or “pick unit”. The master UPC label is the parent SKU to the children.
Vendors may incorporate this UPC code onto their GS1-128 or carton content label.
If not incorporated, place master UPC label next to GS1-128 or carton content label.
Packing Accessories – Inner-pack Orders
Accessories packed as "solid" cartons with consistent quantities as dictated by the purchase order, must have only one style, color, and size or non-sized items in each carton. Accessories, especially small-sized items, including socks may be placed in solid inner packs (polybags or boxes) to prevent damage and to improve carton integrity.
Product must be individually tagged.
Place a bar code label under the bill of the hat or on the band.
An inner pack – holds ‘x’ number of units
Check the requirements from your buyer
Place an additional tag on the outside of inner pack box
You may use a box or polybag for your inner- pack container
Inner packs are all the same size.
Inner packs should be boxed or polybagged together with an additional barcoded tag in the middle of the polybag or outside of the inner container.
Place as many inner packs in a carton as possible without exceeding the weight (50 lbs.) or carton size restrictions.
When packing all items, make sure the UPC labels are visible and facing UP in the same direction.
The buyer will inform you as to pack the inner pack quantities by size or to pack a PO in inner packs.
Packing Accessories - Pre-pack Orders
All pre-pack purchase orders begin with “99”.
Pre-pack orders should be packed in the size run or “pre-pack” as dictated by the purchase order.
Pre-packs must have only one style/color of merchandise in a size range and quantities ordered in the pre-pack.
The master carton should hold only one size run. (One pre-pack per carton)
A master UPC label must be on the pre-pack or “pick unit”. The master UPC label is the parent SKU to the children. ● Vendors may incorporate this UPC code onto their GS1-128 or carton content label. ● If not incorporated, place master UPC label next to GS1-128 or carton content label.
Packing Accessories - Solid and/or Small Orders
Accessory items such as key chains, watches, mugs, sunglasses, or licensed product that may be very small and potentially create compliance violations with regard to minimum carton dimensions should follow the packing instructions below:
If small quantities are ordered (e.g. 24 units of “X” in 18 teams) and the items have no specific size and/or fit in small boxes or freezer type poly bags, each item can be placed in its own inner box or poly bag.
The inner boxes/polybags must be properly marked with the style and color code from our PO as well as the quantity and size of what is in the inner box/polybag. This should be done by applying a label on each of the individual boxes or poly bags that describes the contents.
Place the inner boxes or polybags into a large carton for shipping.
Pack only ONE purchase order per carton; DO NOT MIX PURCHASE ORDERS. Each carton should have its own packing slip.
Each carton must be well marked that there are multiple boxes inside by adding the statement “Mixed styles inside” on the carton or label including a color identifier. In addition, the total quantity inside MUST be listed on the master label.
Place label on the top side or on the side that faces the top of the carton so that the label can be seen upon opening.
If using a polybag, the label should be placed in the middle of the bag.
V. Routing
DC Address:
The JD Finish Line Distribution, Inc.
3308 N. Mitthoeffer Rd.
Indianapolis, IN46235
GPS coordinates N39.81745, W85.99187
Major intersection I-70 and Post Road
Bill of Lading
When shipping more than one purchase order number or a shipment that will require more than one trailer, JD Finish Line requires one (1) bill of lading to be filled out for each shipment or, in the case of full truckloads, one bill of lading for each trailer.
Multiple POs must be shipped on a single bill of lading with one EDI856 (ASN) per bill of lading. Non-adherence is subject to chargebacks.
E-mail the completed bill of lading to bol@finishline.com
The following information must be on the bill of lading:
Complete list of all JD Finish Line purchase order numbers included in the shipment.
A carton count and unit count by per purchase order number, along with totals summarized.
Trailer number and seal number if full truckload and the carrier pro number if less than truckload.
Failure to provide required information on BOL is subject to chargebacks.
Prepaid Shipments (Vendor Paid Freight)
Email poapproval@finishline.com with a list of POs including carton count and unit count by PO for PO approval.
JD Finish Line traffic will review the list of PO’s to confirm OK to ship and subsequently respond with approval to ship.
Once shipped, please email bol@finishline.com a copy of the BOL and confirm the shipment ASN has been sent.
Vendor’s carrier must reach out via email (deliveryappt@finishline.com) at least 3 business days (EST time) prior to the desired delivery date with a copy of the BOL and a completed routing request form. We will respond directly to your carrier's request with the delivery appointment date.
***Please note all FTL will have a drop requirement. Larger size LTL will also have a drop requirement. Live unloads by approval only at time of setting the delivery appt and are not guaranteed to be approved. Non-compliance is subject to chargeback.
JD Finish Line will alert the carrier once their trailer is empty. The carrier has the day of notification plus 3 additional days to pull the trailer from our yard. Failure to do so will result in a chargeback of $150 per day thereafter. With repeated failure the equipment may be towed at carrier's expense.
The following requirements are subject to a $200 chargeback for non-compliance:
Carrier attempts to deliver without having a scheduled appointment
Carrier attempts to deliver earlier than their scheduled appointment date
Carrier misses their delivery appointment
Carrier is more than 1 hour late for live unload appointment
Collect Shipments (JD Finish Line Paid Freight):
Vendor may ship via Parcel with FedEx if all of the below conditions are met:
0-999 lbs. total weight for all shipments ±5 business days of ready date
All cartons must be at least 10 lbs. per carton
Must use FedEx Collect Account number provided by JD Finish Line
All other shipments:
Email routingrequest@finishline.com with a completed routing request form at least 4 business days (EST time) prior to product available date. Failure to send a completed routing request form at least 4 business days prior will result in a $500 chargeback to allow for proper routing vs. expedited routing.
JD Finish Line traffic will review the list of PO’s to confirm approval to ship and will respond via email advising you of our carrier assignment.
The carrier will contact you to arrange a load appointment. If carrier hasn't contacted you within 2 business days, please email routingrequest@finishline.com for escalation.
Vendor is subject to $40 per 15 min increment chargeback for detention should carrier take longer than 2 hours of free time allotted for full truckloads (FTL). Chargeback will be a pass through of actual carrier detention and may rise if peak recognized season.
Once a shipment has departed, please email a copy of the BOL to bol@finishline.com and confirm the shipment ASN has been sent.
Vendor is subject to a $300 chargeback for “Truck Ordered Not Used” (TONU). This is applicable if vendor does not have product available that is scheduled or turns away a JD Finish Line carrier without justification. Chargeback will be a pass through of actual carrier detention and may rise if a peak recognized season.
For a listing of all routing chargebacks, please see chargeback summary table at the end of this manual.
Transportation Contacts
If you have any questions regarding these instructions please contact our traffic department
Routing Requests - routingrequest@finishline.com
PO Approvals - poapproval@finishline.com
BOL Submission - bol@finishline.com
Delivery Appointments - deliveryappt@finishline.com
Collect Freight Escalation - tlong@finishline.com
First Escalation - vpeters@finishline.com
Second Escalation - tretz@finishline.com
VI. Invoicing Instructions
All invoices must include the following:
Vendor name, address, and phone number(s).
Vendor account number.
Vendor contact name and phone number
Remittance address if different from corporate address.
The JD Finish Line purchase order number.
Invoice date.
Terms, including percent discount and the number of days.
Unit cost.
Defective Allowance (if applicable)
The date merchandise was shipped.
The number of units shipped by style number, color code, and size.
The JD Finish Line Inc. store number if shipped directly to a store(s)
The precise naming convention as shown below:
Invoices mailed and billed: JD Finish Line USA, Inc.
Product shipped to a store: JD Finish Line. Inc.
Mailing and billing address: 3308 N. Mitthoeffer Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46235 Attn: Accounts Payable
Product Shipped to DC addresses: JD Finish Line Distribution, 3308 N. Mitthoeffer Rd. Indianapolis, IN 46235
Product shipped directly to a Finish Line store address: Mall Name, Finish Line and store number, Store Address, City, State Zip
Product shipped directly to a JD Sports store address: Mall Name, JD Sports and store number, Store Address, City, State Zip
Additional requirements and information:
Each purchase order must be invoiced separately.
Concealed shortages will be deducted from the payment.
Price differences and returns will be deducted from the payment.
Commission on the shortages will be deducted from the payment.
Non-compliance with the requirements in this manual will be deducted from invoice payment
We are unable to research or address any disputes older than 6 months from the cancel date on the purchase order. If a charge is disputed, it must be in writing and include JD Finish Line purchase order number, the estimated or actual date of receipt, and reason the charge is being disputed. Any fee will be deducted from the invoice.
EDI Invoices
The JD Finish Line trades EDI invoices (document 810) with their EDI vendors. Vendors are required to trade all supported EDI documents either through traditional EDI or via the web-based solution.
If you signed a defective allowance agreement as part of your new vendor set up, you are required to map the appropriate percent to the SAC segment as described in the Invoice (810) EDI Guidelines.
Failure to supply all required information on an Invoice (EDI or otherwise) may result in a chargeback.
Please help us expedite your payment by keeping us advised of any changes in addresses or personnel.
VII. Shipment of Canceled / Damaged/ Not–Ordered Product
Canceled Product
In the event of a shipment by the vendor of canceled product, the JD Finish Line will request a Return Authorization (RA). If after (10) business days of NO response from the vendor with an RA, the JD Finish Line reserves the right to keep the product at $0 cost. Should the product be invoiced, the JD Finish Line will apply a $100 chargeback deducted from the next invoice.
Defective product
In the event defective product is received, the JD Finish Line will request a Return Authorization for Return to Vendor (RTV). If after (10) business days of NO response from the vendor with an RA, the JD Finish Line reserves the right to dispose of this product as we see fit and deduct from the next invoice.
Product Not-Ordered
In the event of a shipment by the vendor of product not ordered to any JD Finish Line location, the JD Finish Line will request a Return Authorization (RA). If after (10) business days of no response from the vendor with an RA, the JD Finish Line reserves the right to keep the product at $0 cost. Should the product be invoiced, the JD Finish Line will apply a $100 chargeback deducted from the next invoice.
VIII. Chargeback Reasons & Fee Schedule
NOTE: We are unable to research or address any disputes older than (6) months from the cancel date on the purchase order. If a charge is disputed, it must be in writing and include the following: JD Finish Line purchase order number, estimated or actual date of receipt, and data and/or information to support the dispute.
Waivers to the items listed in this manual may be considered ONLY on an exceptional basis. Please email vendorrelations@finishline.com for ANY requests to deviate from requirements listed in this manual.