Industry News
Brand Auditors Flag Incomplete Chain-of-Custody Claims on Mixed-Fiber Cartons
Retail brand auditors are rejecting vague chain-of-custody claims on mixed-fiber export cartons that lack mill-linked evidence.
Brand auditors reviewing autumn carton programs are flagging incomplete chain-of-custody claims where mixed-fiber constructions lack mill-linked evidence or certificate scope matching the shipped SKU.
Chinese converters can often source certified liners, but certificate numbers, invoice links, and volume balances are still inconsistently filed—especially on spot board buys.
Why buyers care: a failed audit can block shelf placement even when ECT and print quality pass.
Buyer takeaways
Require certificate scope and mill ID on the PO, not after shipment.
Avoid mixing certified and uncertified board lots in one export lot.
Keep volume-balance files ready for brand and retailer audits.