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Amazon Type C

Amazon SIOC Type C Package Testing

Amazon Type C packages are individual packages that weigh over 100 pounds. These packages are transported using the standard handling method. Type C products are part of the Amazon SIOC program. SIOC stands for Ships In Own Container. The packages go through the Amazon fulfilment process without being placed in an Amazon box. That Amazon box is called over-boxing.

SIOC package testing is a simulation of the environment a package will experience. It includes the shipment through the entire Amazon distribution system. The process starts at the manufacturer or distributor. It continues to the Amazon fulfilment center and concludes at the customer destination. The testing is necessary to identify potential issues before they arise.

The actual testing was established by a partnership between Amazon and ISTA. ISTA is the International Safe Transit Authority. The official name of this test standard is ISTA-6 Type C. The Type C is the test method.

Benefits of Package Certification

The Amazon SIOC program is part of the Amazon initiative of reducing waste, transportation costs and product returns. Amazon introduced an FFP program. FFP stands for frustration free packaging. There are several objectives. First, packaging material must be easy to open. It must be comprised of a majority of recycled material. It must take steps to have minimize weight and dimensions. The packaging must not have Amazon prep requirements.

The benefits of the Amazon package verification program are numerous. First, there is a reduction in packaging cost. Second, there is typically a reduction in product damage. This increases customer satisfaction and reduces returns. Third, Amazon charges reduced or no prep fees. Fourth, Amazon charge reduced or no chargebacks. The Amazon packaging requirements have been in effect for several years.

Amazon requires package certification for many of its sellers and vendors. When required, Amazon sellers must submit test results through seller central. Amazon vendor enrollment often requires similar steps. 

How Are Packages Certified

The package certification process involves working with an approved test lab through the Amazon APASS package test network. Keystone Compliance is a certified Amazon package test lab. To be certified, a lab must have a comprehensive understanding of Amazon fulfillment packaging.

The test process for Type C packages involves a sequence of package tests. Included below is an outline of the test procedure.

Type C – Parcel Delivery of Individual Packaged-Products 100 lb (43 kg) or Greater
Note: Parcel Delivery has a weight limitation of 150 lb (70 kg)  
Sequence NumberTest CategoryTest TypeTest LevelRemarks
1Atmospheric Preconditioning
TEST BLOCK 1
Temperature and HumidityLab ambient, 12 hoursRequired
2Atmospheric Conditioning
TEST BLOCK 1
Controlled Temperature and HumidityTemperature and humidity chosen from chartOptional
3Shock
TEST BLOCK 3
Tip/Tip OverUse a 22 degree tip angleRequired for packages ≥48 in. (1.2 m)  tall and  any one base dimension < ½ the height; or for packages ≥ 30 in. (760 mm)  tall and with a center of gravity vertical location > ½ the package height
4Shock
TEST BLOCK 5
Rotational FLAT Drop9 in (230 mm)Required
5Shock
TEST BLOCK 6
Rotational EDGE Drop9 in (230 mm)Required
6Shock
TEST BLOCK 8
Inclined or Horizontal Impact48 in/sec (4 ft/sec) (1.2 m/sec) impact velocity or velocity changeRequired
7Compression, Vertical
TEST BLOCK 9
Test in the intended shipping orientation or most stable orientationCalculated from formula, Maintain force for 1 hourRequired, Machine, or weights & load spreader
8Compression, Horizontal
TEST BLOCK 10
Clamping SimulationCalculated from formula, Clamp in multiple orientations as directedRequired For any of the 2 axes with a width dimension ≥ 24 in (610mm) and < 75 in (1905 mm)
9Vibration
TEST BLOCK 12
Random With and Without Top LoadOverall Grms levels of 0.53 and 0.46Required
10Shock
TEST BLOCK 20
Inclined or Horizontal Impact48 in/sec (4 ft/sec) (1.2 m/sec) impact velocity or velocity changeRequired
11Shock
TEST BLOCK 21
Rotational Edge Drop9 in (230 mm )Required for Elongated and Flat Packages
12Shock
TEST BLOCK 22
Full Rotational Flat DropVaries with packaged-product dimensionsRequired for Elongated and Flat Packages
13Shock
TEST BLOCK 23
Bridge ImpactHazard Box dropped 16 in (400 mm)Required for Elongated Packages Only
14Shock
TEST BLOCK 24
Concentrated Edge ImpactHazard Box dropped 16 in (400 mm)Required for Flat Packages Only

Start the Package Certification Process

Are you ready to receive the benefits of a certified package? Our engineers are e-commerce package test experts. Here are the steps to follow. If you know what you need, then request a quote from us. If you are unsure, contact us. We thoroughly understand the requirements. We also know that ASINs can be grouped to reduce testing. You might not need to test nearly as much as you think you do.

As a leader in Amazon package testing, we work with hundreds of companies each year to assist in their compliance testing needs. We look forward to working with you to help you certify your packages through our streamlined process.