What Is TI-HI? Pallet Stacking Notation Explained

TI-HI A pallet configuration shorthand showing the number of cases per layer (TI) and the number of layers high (HI).

TI-HI is the shorthand warehouse and shipping teams use to describe how cases are arrayed on a pallet. It compresses two details into one quick reference: the number of cases that fit on a single layer across the pallet footprint (the "TI" or "tiers in") and how many of those layers are stacked vertically (the "HI" or "high"). The result — written like "TI 8 / HI 9" or simply "8x9" — gives the total case count per pallet when multiplied.

How To Read TI-HI

Reading TI-HI is straightforward and deliberately compact so packers, carriers, and warehouse management systems can exchange a pallet quantity without a diagram. The first number (TI) is the count of full cases that sit on one layer across the pallet. The second number (HI) is how many layers of those cases are stacked from pallet deck to top layer.

For example:

• Example: TI 8 / HI 9 = 8 cases per layer × 9 layers = 72 cases per pallet.
• Variant: TI 10 / HI 6 = 10 × 6 = 60 cases per pallet; the same SKU with a different case size or pallet size will change TI-HI.

Why TI-HI Matters In Fulfillment

TI-HI matters because it ties packing, storage, and transport planning to precise quantities and space usage. Knowing TI-HI lets operations calculate cases per pallet, pallets per trailer, pallet positions for cube utilization, and material handling requirements like stretch wrap and corner boards. It also feeds WMS and TMS logic for pick-slot sizing, replenishment thresholds, and carrier quoting.

How It Interacts With Case And Pallet Dimensions

TI-HI is a shorthand—it assumes uniform case dimensions and a standard pallet footprint. When case length or width changes, TI will change even if case height stays the same. Pallet type (48×40, Euro, custom) sets the usable layer area; two pallets with the same HI may hold different case counts if TI differs because of pallet footprint or case orientation.

Common Limitations And Exceptions

TI-HI does not capture load stability, load-bearing limits, or mixed-SKU layers. It assumes full, consistent layers. Common exceptions include partial layers (e.g., last layer with voids), mixed-layer stacking to protect fragile SKUs, and palletizing with slip sheets or tray packs that alter the effective TI. TI-HI also omits weight; a high HI on heavy cases may exceed pallet or racking limits even if the case count seems reasonable.

Practical Example

A snack manufacturer ships cases that are 16" × 12" footprint and 6" high on a standard 48" × 40" pallet. Cases fit 8 per layer (TI 8). The packer stacks 9 layers high (HI 9). The math is:

• Cases Per Pallet: 8 × 9 = 72 cases.
• Height Calculation: Pallet deck + (9 × 6" case height) + compression allowance = approximate total stack height for trailer planning.

Tips For Warehouse Operators

• Document Standard TI-HI: Maintain a SKU master that records TI-HI, case dimensions, and weight so pickers and packers use the right pallet pattern.
• Validate With A Trial Stack: For new SKUs, physically test a full pallet to confirm stability before updating WMS records.
• Include Weight & Height: Always record total pallet weight and stack height alongside TI-HI for carrier compliance and racking limits.
• Account For Mixed Pallets: If mixing SKUs or odd-case sizes, record actual layer composition rather than forcing a TI-HI shorthand that misrepresents the pallet.

In short, the TI-HI notation gives a compact, operationally useful statement of how many cases a pallet carries and how that pallet is stacked. It is indispensable for case counting, pallet planning, and communicating packing patterns across fulfillment, but it must be used alongside dimensions, weight, and stability rules to be safe and accurate.