Amazon SIPP (Ships in Product Packaging) Type C Package Integrity Testing
Amazon Type C packages are individual packages that weigh over 100 pounds and are transported using standard handling methods. These packages are part of Amazon’s Ships in Product Packaging (SIPP) program, meaning they travel through the Amazon fulfillment process without being placed in an additional Amazon box, a process often referred to as over-boxing.
SIPP package testing simulates the environment a package will encounter, including shipment through the entire Amazon distribution system, from the manufacturer or distributor to the Amazon fulfillment center, and finally to the customer destination. This testing is crucial for identifying potential issues before they occur.
The testing standards were developed through a collaboration between Amazon and the International Safe Transit Authority (ISTA), known as ISTA-6 Type C, where Type C is the test method.
ISTA 6 SIPP Type C Verification Process
The Amazon SIPP program aligns with Amazon’s initiatives to reduce waste, transportation costs, and product returns. Amazon introduced the Frustration-Free Packaging (FFP) program with several objectives.
Packaging should be easy to open, primarily made of recycled material, and designed to minimize weight and dimensions without requiring Amazon prep.
The advantages of the Amazon package verification program are numerous, this includes:
- Reduced packaging costs
- Decreased product damage (leading to higher customer satisfaction and fewer returns)
- Reduced or no prep fees
- Diminished or eliminated chargebacks.
Amazon mandates package certification for many of its sellers and vendors. When required, Amazon sellers must submit test results through seller central, and Amazon vendor enrollment often involves similar steps.
Amazon SIPP Testing Overview
Amazon has developed a lab certification procedure for packaging test labs known as APASS.
Package certification becomes necessary in one of four situations:
- When introducing a new product or package to Amazon
- If there are changes to a product’s design
- When a change in Amazon’s requirements makes a previously exempt package need certification
- If Amazon observes damages during shipment to the customer.
Undergoing package testing offers multiple benefits for sellers and vendors. It leads to quicker product-to-market times, balanced distribution costs, reduced damage and product loss, enhanced customer satisfaction, and more confident product launches.
Unacceptable Packages
Amazon evaluates acceptable packages based on their performance in tests.
Certain package designs are deemed unacceptable, including those with non-taped, 123 or auto bottom boxes, protruding tuck flaps, tabs, and handles.
Tuck flaps that stick out are also rejected.
Cut outs, where the packaging partially or fully exposes products, are prohibited.
The use of plastic bags and other coverings is not allowed. Packaging that deforms due to insufficient strength will result in failure, and boxes that lack six sides are not permitted.
Amazon SIPP Type C Pass/Fail Criteria:
Questions often arise about the pass/fail criteria, which are determined before testing. This involves collaboration among the shipper, manufacturer, Amazon, and other stakeholders. The group must define what constitutes product damage, acceptable package condition post-testing, damage tolerance, and how to evaluate the product’s condition.
The package certification process involves working with an approved test lab in the Amazon APASS package test network. Keystone Compliance is a certified Amazon package test lab, possessing extensive knowledge of Amazon fulfillment packaging.
Overview of the ISTA-6 Type C Test Plan
| 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 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 chart | Optional |
| 3 | Shock TEST BLOCK 3 | Tip/Tip Over | Use a 22 degree tip angle | Required 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 |
| 4 | Shock TEST BLOCK 5 | Rotational FLAT Drop | 9 in (230 mm) | Required |
| 5 | Shock TEST BLOCK 6 | Rotational EDGE Drop | 9 in (230 mm) | Required |
| 6 | Shock TEST BLOCK 8 | Inclined or Horizontal Impact | 48 in/sec (4 ft/sec) (1.2 m/sec) impact velocity or velocity change | Required |
| 7 | Compression, Vertical TEST BLOCK 9 | Test in the intended shipping orientation or most stable orientation | Calculated from formula, Maintain force for 1 hour | Required, Machine, or weights & load spreader |
| 8 | Compression, Horizontal TEST BLOCK 10 | Clamping Simulation | Calculated from formula, Clamp in multiple orientations as directed | Required For any of the 2 axes with a width dimension ≥ 24 in (610mm) and < 75 in (1905 mm) |
| 9 | Vibration TEST BLOCK 12 | Random With and Without Top Load | Overall Grms levels of 0.53 and 0.46 | Required |
| 10 | Shock TEST BLOCK 20 | Inclined or Horizontal Impact | 48 in/sec (4 ft/sec) (1.2 m/sec) impact velocity or velocity change | Required |
| 11 | Shock TEST BLOCK 21 | Rotational Edge Drop | 9 in (230 mm ) | Required for Elongated and Flat Packages |
| 12 | Shock TEST BLOCK 22 | Full Rotational Flat Drop | Varies with packaged-product dimensions | Required for Elongated and Flat Packages |
| 13 | Shock TEST BLOCK 23 | Bridge Impact | Hazard Box dropped 16 in (400 mm) | Required for Elongated Packages Only |
| 14 | Shock TEST BLOCK 24 | Concentrated Edge Impact | Hazard Box dropped 16 in (400 mm) | Required for Flat Packages Only |
Start the Package Certification Process With Keystone Compliance
Ready to enjoy the benefits of a certified package? Our team of e-commerce package test experts is here to guide you. Request a quote if you know what you need, or contact us for assistance.
As a leader in Amazon package testing, Keystone Compliance works with numerous companies annually to assist with compliance testing needs. We look forward to collaborating with you to certify your packages through our efficient and streamlined process.
Let’s get started!
For additional resources on SIPP testing, including a free test-type calculator to help determine the most suitable test type for your product, visit our APASS Lab website. Our goal is to assist you in selecting the perfect test to guarantee your product arrives in excellent condition, providing a positive unboxing experience for your customers.
For more information on SIPP testing, follow the corresponding links: