01
Choose the installation architecture before naming the range
Traditional A/B herringbone uses complementary panel types. Single-panel systems use one panel type for the specified pattern arrangement. Primary technology providers describe both routes, including Unilin's Unizip, i4F's HerringB/ONE and Välinge's 5G H/B One. Their existence does not establish which technology is used in a proposed collection. Identify the actual profile, manufacturing arrangement and permitted installation pattern on the offered finished boards.
02
Make every saleable item identifiable
Build the orderable range from the decor, format, panel type and packing configuration. In an A/B programme, record whether left and right panels have separate codes, are combined within one carton or are supplied in another agreed format. For a single-panel route, confirm its own carton and label record. One panel type does not automatically halve the number of saleable SKUs: the result also depends on decor count, formats, pack sizes and the commercial coding system.
03
Approve the carton and sample layout together
Check what the customer receives when one carton is opened. Compare panel identification, face variation, packing sequence and installation instructions with the display or sample used to sell the floor. A single loose plank can approve a surface direction but cannot demonstrate a herringbone assembly. Retain an assembled trial that shows the intended pattern and the relevant joints, with the actual instruction revision linked to its panel code.
04
Plan replenishment and replacements by product version
Agree how spare stock is identified and how replacement orders connect to the approved decor, finish, panel type and profile revision. A similar-looking plank from another system is not an approved substitute. Where a traditional programme needs both panel types, make the replacement arrangement explicit. For either route, retain the manufacturing and batch references needed to investigate a claim without assuming that every later production run is interchangeable.
05
Release one connected private-label specification
Before launch, align the product code, artwork, barcode, carton contents, installation guidance and approval sample. Record the production quantities and minimums against the actual saleable items rather than a collection name alone. Our purchasing office can compare A/B and single-panel options across manufacturing partners, then carry the selected construction and commercial record into the production and repeat-order brief.
Your buying worksheet
Herringbone range launch matrix
| Range record | A/B programme | Single-panel programme |
|---|---|---|
| Panel identification | Identify both complementary panel types and their references | Identify the selected single-panel system and reference |
| Orderable SKU | Confirm separate or combined codes and carton configuration | Confirm the actual codes, decor/format variants and carton configuration |
| Sales sample | Show the approved assembled pattern using both panel types | Show the approved assembled pattern using the selected panel |
| Installation record | Retain the instructions for this exact A/B profile | Retain the instructions for this exact single-panel profile |
| Replacement supply | Define the required panel type, finish and compatible version | Define the finish and compatible version for the replacement |
Before the purchase order
Buying questions
Does single-panel herringbone always mean fewer retail SKUs?
Not necessarily. It removes the need for complementary panel types within the specified system, but the number of saleable SKUs depends on decor, format, carton configuration and the retailer's coding.
Can a distributor combine A/B and single-panel products in one range?
A collection can contain distinct products, but each needs its own accurate code, pack and installation record. Do not mix their planks within an installation unless that exact combination is documented and approved.
What should we approve before placing a private-label herringbone order?
Approve the finished construction and surface, an assembled sample, orderable panel and carton references, artwork, instructions and replacement arrangement. Confirm quantities and manufacturing terms against that complete record.
The product behind the programme