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Amazon Type E

Amazon SIOC Type E Package Testing

In an effort to reduce returns and costs, Amazon is continually adding package requirements to its seller and vendors. Amazon partnered with the International Safe Transit Authority (ISTA) to develop a series of package testing methods. The Amazon Type E package standard is designed for LTL shipments greater than 100 pounds.

The official name of the test standard is ISTA-6 Type E. This is for packages delivered using the standard handling method. The scope of the testing is a simulation of the environment that a package must go through while in the Amazon distribution system. It simulates the effects of transportation to the customer destination. It includes the environment of the Amazon fulfillment system.

Type E products are SIOC. SIOC stands for Ships In Own Container. These are packages that are not placed in an Amazon box or Amazon fulfillment packaging. Those packages are called over-boxing. Instead SIOC packages are the packages provided by the seller and vendor.

Testing must be completed by an Amazon approved package testing lab. These labs are certified through the Amazon APASS network. The APASS package test lab must have a thorough understanding of the test requirements. They must also know the package verification process, Amazon vendor enrollment and Amazon seller enrollment.

Benefits of Amazon Package Certification

There are numerous benefits to package certification. For one, there is a great confidence in the product launch. Having certified packaging reduces one of the many stresses of a launch. There is a reduction in the product to market time. Certifying packages also assists with balancing distribution costs.

One of the primary objectives of the program is reducing waste. This waste reduction comes from not increasing the weight or dimensions of the package any more than necessary. This occurs by not overpacking products with excess packaging material. Collectively, this increases customer satisfaction and reputation. It also reduces returns. Packaging that is frustration-free is easy to open.

Amazon rewards sellers and vendors with certified packages. The rewards are reduced or zero prep fees and chargebacks. This program is modified from time to time. It is important to check program details often.

Scope of Package Testing to Amazon 7E

Amazon requires a rigorous testing of packages. This eliminates its prep requirements. Upon completion of testing, a test report is generated. This report is then submitted through Amazon seller central. At that point, the many benefits are realized.

Included below is a chart that outlines the full scope of testing.

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 tableOptional
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 and 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)
9Vertical Vibration
TEST BLOCK 13
Random With Top LoadOverall Grms level of 0.54Required
10Shock
TEST BLOCK 20
Inclined or Horizontal Impact48 in/sec (4 ft/sec) (1.2 m/sec) impacts  or 3 in. (76 mm) dropsRequired
11Shock
TEST BLOCK 23
Bridge ImpactHazard Box dropped 16 in (400 mm)Required for Elongated Packages Only
12Shock
TEST BLOCK 24
Concentrated Edge ImpactHazard Box dropped 16 in (400 mm)Required for Flat Packages Only

Start the Process

We can help you realize the benefits of a certified package. Keystone Compliance is an expert in e-commerce package testing. If you know what you need, then request a quote from us. If you are unsure, contact us. We thoroughly understand the Amazon.com package testing 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. Our lab features short lead times on scheduling. We quickly write and submit concise reports. Volume discounts are available. We look forward to working with you to help you certify your packages through our streamlined process.