Amazon SIOC Type G Package Testing
In terms of package testing, Amazon differentiates individually packaged TV’s and monitors from other products. Amazon test type G is for TV’s and monitors that are less than 150 pounds and have a girth less than 165 inches. The shipping method is parcel delivery and the handling method is the standard handling method.
The standard handling method is also called the floor loaded method.This is for certain products that are received at an Amazon.com Fulfillment Center. These products are individually packages. They are not on pallets. Nor, are they with multiple packaged products on a single pallet. They are, however, intended to ship to the end consumer without a pallet.
Type G products qualify for SIOC package status. SIOC stands for Ships In Own Container. These products are not placed in an Amazon box. That is referred to as over-boxing. These products are tested based on the ISTA 6 SIOC Type G test sequence. This test method was developed by Amazon and ISTA. ISTA is the International Safe Transit Authority.
Like other SIOC packages, Type G products must be easy to open. The packaging must be designed to reduce waste. The weight and dimensions should not be significantly increased by the packaging.
Fragile Determination
Amazon considers TVs and monitors to be non-fragile products. Because of this, only one sample is used for testing. A TV/Monitor product is unique. It is defined as any package which contains as a primary product a TV of Monitor. The Type G test method was created because of the unique attributes these products have. They have fragility combined with the distinct handling practices that are necessary.
Testing Process
Amazon sellers and vendors must certify the packaging for most TV’s and monitors. Testing is to occur at an Amazon-approved testing lab. The lab must be part of the Amazon APASS network. Amazon requires these test labs to have a thorough understanding of the process. As an APASS member, Keystone Compliance knows the package verification process. We know what it takes to receive package certification.
ISTA 6 Test G requires the test to be performed one time on one sample. However, amazon.com recommends that the test be performed five or more times using new samples. This will show the best representative performance of the package.
The products submitted as samples should be as close as possible to the actual production items. CAD generated samples, prototypes, handmade samples, etc. are usually not sufficient samples. They do not provide accurate test results since they are not always representative of the actual product throughout the distribution system. Preliminary tests may be conducted on these types of products for development purposes but final official testing should be performed with actual production items.
Scope of Testing
The scope of testing to Amazon Type G packages is unique from the other test types. Included below is a chart showing the test sequence for Amazon fulfillment packaging.
Type G – Parcel Delivery of Individual Packaged TV/Monitor Less Than 150 pounds (68 kg) AND Girth Less Than 165 inches (4.19 m) | ||||
| Sequence Number | Test Category | Test Type | Test Level | Remarks |
| 1 | Atmospheric Preconditioning TEST BLOCK 1 | Temperature and Humidity | Lab ambient, 12 hours | Required |
| 2 | Atmospheric Conditioning TEST BLOCK 1 | Controlled Temperature and Humidity | Temperature and humidity chosen from table | Optional |
| 3 | Shock TEST BLOCK 2 | Free-Fall Drop | 9 Drops – height varies with packaged-product weight | Required- Do not catch packaged items |
| 4 | Compression, Horizontal TEST BLOCK 9 | Clamping Simulation | Calculated from formula Clamp in multiple orientations as directed | Required for any of the 2 axes with a width dimension >24 inches (610mm) and <75 inches (1905mm) |
| 5 | Compression, Vertical TEST BLOCK 10 | Test in the intended shipping orientation | Calculated from formula maintain force for 1 hour | Required, Machine, or weights and load spreader |
| 6 | Vibration TEST BLOCK 12 | Random with or without top load | Overall Grms levels of 0.53 and 0.46 | Required |
| 7 | Shock TEST BLOCK 20 | Inclined or Horizontal Impact | 48 in/sec (4 ft/sec) (1.2 m/sec) impact velocity or velocity change | Required for packages =>100 pounds (45 kg) |
| 8 | Shock Test block 15 | Free-Fall Drop | 8 Drops – height varies with packaged-product weight. Includes drop on hazard. | Required- Do not catch packaged item. |
| 9 | Shock TEST BLOCK 24 | Concentrated Edge Impact | Hazard Box dropped 16 inches (400 mm) | Required- Hazard box to be dropped on the screen side |
Receive Package Certification
We can help you realize the benefits of a certified package for a TV or monitor. We are e-commerce package test experts. 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. We are and Amazon APASS package testing lab. 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.