What Is TI-HI? How To Calculate Cases Per Layer And Layers

A pallet configuration measurement showing cases per layer, called TI, and the number of layers, called HI.

TI-HI A pallet configuration measurement showing cases per layer, called TI, and the number of layers, called HI. Warehouse teams and carriers use TI-HI to describe how cases stack on a pallet, which affects storage, handling, shipping rates, and retailer compliance.

The practical value of TI-HI is that it converts a visual pallet pattern into a concise code: TI (cases across one layer) × HI (number of layers). That code tells receiving docks, carriers, and trading partners exactly how many cases are on a pallet and how they are arranged, so everyone can plan labor, equipment, and truck space.

What The Measurement Represents

TI: The number of cases that fit on one single layer of the pallet, typically measured along the pallet footprint (e.g., a 9 TI means nine cases fill one layer).

HI: The number of layers stacked vertically on the pallet. HI reflects how many identical TI layers are stacked to reach the pallet height or weight limit.

Why TI-HI Matters In Retail Operations

Retail receiving docks, distribution centers, and carriers use TI-HI for quick verification and planning. A correct TI-HI helps avoid delays because receiving teams can confirm case counts from the pallet pattern without opening boxes or reweighing. It directly affects slotting, pallet pick strategies, pallet labels, and compliance with retailer specifications.

How To Calculate TI And HI

To calculate TI-HI, walk the pallet pattern step by step:

• Measure The Layer Footprint: Count how many cases fit along the pallet's length and width to determine cases per layer (TI). For irregular patterns, count cases per standard repeating unit then multiply.
• Count Layers: Count the identical stacked layers from pallet deck to top case to find HI. If top layer is partial, note it as a fractional HI in documentation or use separate pallet descriptions.
• Total Cases: Multiply TI × HI to get total cases per pallet. Example: 10 TI × 6 HI = 60 cases.

How TI-HI Varies By Product And Packaging

Products with rigid, uniform case dimensions produce consistent TI-HI. Fragile or irregular packs may require lower HI or alternate patterns to avoid damage. Bulkier cartons could reduce TI but allow a taller HI within weight limits. Retailers often publish preferred TI-HI patterns for category-specific products (e.g., beverages vs. dry grocery).

Common Retail Requirements And Compliance

Large retailers and grocers typically provide palletization requirements covering TI-HI so their DCs can process pallets quickly. Noncompliant TI-HI can lead to chargebacks or refused loads. Requirements often include maximum pallet height, allowable overhang, and approved patterns to ensure safe handling by automated equipment.

Practical Example

Consider a manufacturer shipping cereal in cases that place four across the pallet width and three along the length—TI = 12. The load is stacked five layers high—HI = 5. The pallet is labeled 12 × 5 and holds 60 cases. Receiving teams can verify counts visually, reducing inspection time and paperwork.

Tips For Accurate TI-HI Communication

• Label Clearly: Include TI-HI on pallet labels and packing lists in the format TI × HI and total cases to avoid ambiguity.
• Use Photos: Attach a simple photo of the pallet pattern to advance shipping notices (ASNs) for nonstandard patterns.
• Document Exceptions: If a pallet has a half layer or mixed case sizes, describe the configuration explicitly rather than forcing a single TI-HI code.

Operational Considerations For Warehouses

Warehouse managers should tie TI-HI into slotting rules, pick-face planning, and putaway logic in the WMS. Knowing standard TI-HI for an SKU speeds pallet building, reduces rework at the dock, and improves cube utilization in trailers. Train pickers and packers to build pallets to specified TI-HI patterns and record deviations immediately in the system.

In short, the TI-HI code is a concise operational shorthand that converts a pallet pattern into actionable information: how many cases fit per layer and how many layers are stacked. Accurate TI-HI speeds receiving, lowers chargeback risk, and helps warehouse teams plan labor and trailer space effectively.