Addition information can be found on the ISTA website

Introduction to SIOC Packaging (Ships in Own Container)

Do you need integrity testing of packaged products that ship through Amazon? Amazon testing originally required that the SIOC packaging not require additional packaging. Though to qualify for Amazon approval minor cosmetic damage such as dented corners, scratches etc are acceptable, you as the shipper can specify the level of acceptable cosmetic damage prior to the test.

The ISTA 6 Amazon SIOC test was created by ISTA in cooperation with Amazon.com The SIOC Amazon test is designed to be a general simulation protocol.

When properly done these procedures will provide the following tangible benefits :

1. Meet Amazon package requirements.
2. Reduction in damages and loss of product.
3. Reduction of product to market times
4. More balanced distribution packaging costs
5. Increased market share contributed to customer satisfaction.
6. Increases confidence in the launch of product.

What Does it Mean To Be SIOC Certified?

We are often asked: What does SIOC mean on Amazon specifications? The SIOC package certification is to ensure that the product is received by the customer in pristine condition. By having your packaging tested and passed by Amazon standards you can avoid problems with Amazon.

We can offer you Amazon SIOC packaging support by ensuring that your packaging materials are ISTA certified and in full compliance of Amazons SIOC requirements through the required processes of drop testing or other integrity tests.

The ISTA 6 Amazon packaging certification test is appropriate for six different categories that are designated A thru F

Type A:

• Shipping Method: Parcel Delivery
• Handling Method: Standard
• Weight: Less than 50lb or 23kg

Type A, offering parcel delivery of individual packaged products less than 50 lbs is a 10 test sequence.

Test Sequence 1 is Atmospheric Preconditioning Test Block 1. This tests temperature and humidity at a lab ambient level for 12 hours. It is required.

Test Sequence 2 offers Atmospheric Conditioning Test Block 1. This is under controlled temperature and humidity with temperature and humidity chosen from chart. It is optional.

Test Sequence 3 is a shock test involving a free-fall drop. The Amazon drop test requires 9 drops with varying height dependent upon product weight. It is required.

Test Sequence 4 is a vibration test. It tests against random vibrations with and without load. It is required.

Test Sequence 5 is a shock test involving a free-fall drop. It requires 8 drops of varying height depending on weight. It is required.

Test Sequence 6 is a shock test with rotational edge drop from 9 inches. It is required for elongated and flat packages.

Test Sequence 7 is a shock test involving full rotational and flat drop which varies with packaged product dimensions. It is required for elongated and flat packages.

Test Sequence 8 Is a shock test involving bridge impact. It is required for elongated packages only.

Test Sequence 9 Is a shock test involving concentrated edge impact. It is required for flat packages only.

Test Sequence 10 Is an integrity test in the form of a leak test. It is required for liquids only.

Type B:

• Shipping Method: Parcel Delivery
• Handling Method: Standard
• Weight: 50lb or 23kg to less than 100lb or 43kg

Type C:

• Shipping Method: Parcel Delivery
• Handling Method: Standard
• Weight: 100lb or 43 kg or greater

Type D

• Shipping Method: Less-than-Truckload (LTL)
• Handling Method: Standard
• Weight: Less than 100lb or 43kg

Type E:

• Shipping Method: Less-than-Truckload (LTL)
• Handling Method: Standard
• Weight: 100lb or 43kg or greater

Type F:

• Shipping Method: Less-than-Truckload (LTL)
• Handling Method: Pallet Handling
• Weight: Not Applicable

As an FBA seller you know that there are many upsides to selling on Amazon. You’ve likely discovered that the great Amazon customer experience means that you’ve found a platform that is cost effective in that it allows you to sell products, ship products and minimize the challenges that sellers encountered in the past.

Although the Amazon Ships in own Container fulfillment model helps cut down on packaging waste, expenses of additional packing materials and other shipping headaches, there is the hurdle of meeting the Amazon FBA packaging requirements by having your packaging tested and certified in order to be in full compliance.

Pro Pack Test labs takes your business seriously. That is why we perform highly reliable packaging testing to ensure that your products are in alignment with Amazons frustration free packaging program.

To Schedule your 6-Amazon SIOC test today click here