Amazon SIPP (Ships in Product Packaging) Type E Package Integrity Testing
Amazon, in its quest to reduce returns and costs, has continuously updated package requirements for sellers and vendors. In collaboration with the International Safe Transit Authority (ISTA), Amazon has developed a series of package testing methods.
The Amazon Type E package standard is tailored for Less Than Truckload (LTL) shipments over 100 pounds.
The official name of this test standard is ISTA-6 Type E, designed for packages delivered using standard handling methods. The testing simulates the environment a package endures within the Amazon distribution system, including transportation effects and the environment of the Amazon fulfillment system.
ISTA 6 SIPP Type E Verification Process
Type E products are classified as SIPP (Ships In Product Packaging), meaning these packages are not placed in an additional Amazon box or fulfillment packaging, avoiding over-boxing. Instead, SIPP packages are those provided by the seller and vendor.
Testing must be conducted by an Amazon-approved package testing lab, certified through the Amazon APASS network. These labs must thoroughly understand the test requirements, package verification process, Amazon vendor enrollment, and Amazon seller enrollment.
Amazon mandates comprehensive package testing to eliminate prep requirements. Upon testing completion, a report is generated and submitted through Amazon seller central, unlocking various benefits.
Amazon SIPP Testing Overview
Package certification offers several benefits including:
- Increased confidence in product launches
- Reduced time to market
- Balanced distribution costs.
A key goal of the program is waste reduction, achieved by avoiding unnecessary increases in weight or dimensions and minimizing excess packaging material. This results in enhanced customer satisfaction, reputation, and reduced returns. Frustration-free packaging is also easy to open.
Amazon rewards sellers and vendors with certified packages through reduced or zero prep fees and chargebacks. However, the program details may change over time, so it’s important to stay updated.
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 E Pass/Fail Criteria
When establishing pass/fail standards for product packaging, collaboration is key. Before testing begins, stakeholders such as shippers, manufacturers, Amazon, and others must agree on definitions of product damage, acceptable post-test package conditions, damage tolerance, and assessment methods for the product’s post-test condition.
For packaging certification, especially for SIPP (Ships in Product Packaging), choosing a test lab approved by Amazon’s APASS (Amazon Packaging Support and Supplier) network is essential. Keystone Compliance, a certified lab within this network, brings deep expertise in Amazon’s packaging requirements. Their role is critical in ensuring packaging meets Amazon’s strict criteria, aligning with SIPP goals and securing product integrity and customer satisfaction.
Overview of the ISTA-6 Type E Test Plan
Below is a chart outlining the full scope of testing:
| 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 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 and 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 | Vertical Vibration TEST BLOCK 13 | Random With Top Load | Overall Grms level of 0.54 | Required |
| 10 | Shock TEST BLOCK 20 | Inclined or Horizontal Impact | 48 in/sec (4 ft/sec) (1.2 m/sec) impacts or 3 in. (76 mm) drops | Required |
| 11 | Shock TEST BLOCK 23 | Bridge Impact | Hazard Box dropped 16 in (400 mm) | Required for Elongated Packages Only |
| 12 | Shock TEST BLOCK 24 | Concentrated Edge Impact | Hazard Box dropped 16 in (400 mm) | Required for Flat Packages Only |
Start the Process
Keystone Compliance can assist you in reaping the benefits of a certified package. As experts in e-commerce package testing, we offer guidance whether you know your needs or are uncertain. We understand Amazon.com package testing requirements and know that ASINs can be grouped to reduce testing.
As a leader in Amazon package testing, Keystone Compliance works with numerous companies annually for compliance testing needs. Our lab features short lead times, prompt report writing, and volume discounts.
Let’s get started!
Request a quote to see why hundreds of manufacturers trust Keystone with their testing process.
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: