Packaging Hierarchy 

Definition

A sequence of packaging layers that is shown in a tree structure.

Use

The packaging hierarchy clearly shows you the possible packaging layers for a material.

Structure

There are two possible sequences of packaging layers:

·        Linear sequences, for example:

Product in a bottle

® 6 bottles in 1 box

® 100 boxes on 1 pallet

·        Branched sequences, for example:

Product in a bottle

® 6 bottles in 1 box or 15 bottles in 1 case

® 100 boxes on 1 pallet or 40 cases on 1 pallet

The packaging hierarchy does not differentiate between linear and branched sequences, rather it arranges the packaging layers according to the quantity contained inside. You decide which packaging layer is to be labeled in manual label printing. Therefore, you can specify all packaging layers in the same material.

Integration

The packaging hierarchy for a material is defined in the material master with the help of the alternative units of measure, see Specifying Packaging Hierarchies for a Material.

You can view the packaging hierarchy in manual label printing. The system displays the complete packaging hierarchy when you determine labels and choose the top hierarchy level on the Label Printing screen under Packaging Unit, and set the Hierarchy Explosion indicator.