Our tool sketch shows a single carton in open space, while packaging marked a full layer; they haven't reviewed the same situation yet

Can you compare a lower-count arrangement on the same filled-carton requirements before committing to a tool change? The original pattern is one candidate, unless an actual requirement fixes it.

I would keep that alternative in review, not label it accepted because the fingers have more room. Packaging still needs to assess its load support and the completed stack.

Agreed, Amy. I am suggesting a comparison that may be cheaper than redesigning tooling, not a substitute for the packaging assessment.

Count can change. I've requested both candidates on the same carton requirements and asked for release with neighbouring boxes present

Who finishes a partial pallet in either candidate? I would want that work in the comparison before a lower full-layer count is described as the only cost difference.

Dispatch finishes partials by hand; that task was absent from the first proposal, so its supervisor is joining the review

Keep their required access on the layout as it changes. A full layer can pass the tool review while the hand-finished remainder leaves the operator an awkward route

The revised lower-count drawing has better bearing overlap, but packaging has not accepted the stack and tool withdrawal is still being checked; no pattern selected

That is a useful comparison stage. Keep the remaining stack, withdrawal and partial-finishing checks beside the drawing, so its improved appearance does not become a completed approval in the next meeting.