eCommerce Package Testing
As the eCommerce industry continues to grow, so do the costs associated with selling online. Companies often face chargebacks and prep fees.
When companies ship products to consumers, the packages encounter stresses throughout the distribution process. These stresses include environmental changes and careless handling.
In the event that these stresses result in product damage, consumers are left dissatisfied. This damage often results in returns and additional hassles for your company. Package testing can reduce returns due to product damage. This will help your company save money in the long term.
Through testing that measures the effects of vibrations, shocks, drops, pressurization, and temperature changes, Keystone can help identify weak points in packaging. If testing identifies weak points, the company can redesign its packaging to better handle distribution stresses.
What is eCommerce package testing?
eCommerce package testing is a specialized form of distribution testing designed specifically for products shipped directly to consumers through parcel delivery networks. Companies can perform testing for either screening or prediction. eCommerce package testing evaluates how packaging performs when exposed to these stresses to ensure the product remains protected throughout the entire shipping process.
By performing eCommerce package testing in a controlled laboratory environment, manufacturers can simulate real world shipping hazards before products enter the market. Testing helps identify weaknesses in packaging materials, cushioning systems, closures, and overall package design. These insights allow companies to make informed packaging improvements that reduce damage rates, minimize returns, and protect brand reputation.
Why is eCommerce Package Integrity Testing Important?
The purpose of package testing is to ensure that packages are sturdy enough to withstand distribution and keep the product protected until it reaches the end consumer. Testing can be done for either screening or prediction. Screening will test the product and package as is to see if it can survive the distribution channels.
Sadly, eCommerce packaging can affect much more than product replacement, freight claims, and customer satisfaction. A harsh distribution system can cause all of the following:
- Return shipments
- Product repairs
- Discount/Markdowns
- Lost Sales
- Customer service hours
- Lost loyalty
- Interruptions and delays
Package Integrity Testing for eCommerce Shipments
First, the eCommerce package testing process typically begins with an evaluation of the product, the packaging design, and the intended distribution environment. Engineers review factors such as product weight, fragility, packaging materials, shipping method, and final delivery expectations. This information is used to determine which testing standards and simulations are most appropriate for the specific product and sales channel.
Once the test plan is established, packaged products are subjected to a series of controlled laboratory tests designed to replicate real world shipping conditions. These tests often include drop testing to simulate handling impacts, vibration testing to represent truck and conveyor movement, compression testing to mimic stacking forces, and environmental conditioning to account for temperature and humidity changes. The sequence and intensity of these tests are based on recognized standards used throughout the eCommerce industry.
After testing is completed, engineers carefully analyze the results to determine whether the package successfully protected the product. If damage occurs, engineers identify the root cause and recommend packaging improvements, such as material changes, additional cushioning, or structural redesigns. Once revisions are made, testing can be repeated to confirm that the updated packaging performs as intended.
Lastly, the final outcome is a documented test report that supports certification, retailer compliance, and confident product distribution.
Who Needs eCommerce Packaging Integrity Testing?
eCommerce package testing is essential for any company that ships products directly to consumers through parcel delivery networks. This includes direct to consumer brands that rely on consistent customer experiences, as well as manufacturers that sell through large online marketplaces. Products shipped individually are exposed to significantly more handling events than retail shipments, making testing critical for damage prevention and cost control.
The end goal of eCommerce package testing is to help you become certified with the necessary standards so that the product will always arrive to the consumer how it was intended. Various brands require shipments to meet specific specifications. Follow the links below for more information on what package testing standards each brand expects manufacturers to follow:
With consumers buying more frequently on Amazon, it is important to meet all of the regulations set forth by Amazon. For this reason, Amazon and ISTA have partnered to create a standard specific to the shipping needs of Amazon. Keystone’s experienced testing engineers can help you achieve these Amazon and ISTA certifications.
Expert eCommerce Package Testing Laboratory
Many companies find that with other laboratories, they face over-testing. I.e: When a lab tests more products than necessary. Keystone does not over-test. We work with companies to find qualifying exemptions because we have your best interest in mind. Our engineers constantly seek to develop long-term relationships with our customers.
Below is a list of the most common testing standards used for eCommerce manufacturers.
From working with you to find qualifying exemptions to delivering a comprehensive report, the Keystone team is a reliable resource for you. To learn more about our Amazon testing services, please visit our Amazon Package Testing site, www.apasslab.com.
Our customers appreciate the transparency and experience that we bring to every test. Contact us or request a quote to see why so many manufacturers trust Keystone for their eCommerce packaging solutions. We look forward to working with you!