Amazon Ships in Product Packaging (SIPP) Testing Overview

Amazon’s ISTA 6 SIPP testing program allows eligible products to ship to the customer in the product’s own packaging, without Amazon-added overboxing or prep for Tier 2, and with broader prep-free requirements for Tier 3. Amazon now uses SIPP as the umbrella program name, with three certification tiers:

• Tier 1 – Frustration-Free Packaging (FFP)
• Tier 2 – Ships in Own Container (SIOC)
• Tier 3 – Prep Free Packaging (PFP)

Tier 2 is the core “ship in the product package” standard, while Tier 1 adds recyclability and customer-experience requirements. Lastly, Tier 3 applies to products that still require an Amazon overbox or otherwise do not qualify for Tier 2.

To be eligible for Tier 1 or Tier 2 certification, Amazon says the package must meet the minimum dimensions of 6.0″ x 4.0″ x 0.375″ so it can accommodate the standard shipping label. Additionally, Amazon also states there are no maximum dimension restrictions for rigid SIOC, while flexible packaging has maximum size and weight limits and is measured flat.

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Rigid vs. Flexible Packaging Criteria

SIPP qualification depends on the product’s packaging type, fragility, weight, dimensions, and form factor. Amazon distinguishes between rigid packaging and flexible packaging. Rigid packaging must generally be six-sided, a padded mailer, or a rigid paper mailer, and it cannot include prohibited features such as exterior shrink wrap, windows, cut-outs, or protrusions.

Flexible packaging includes bags, stand-up pouches, and padded mailers, but it has added limits and exclusions, including maximum size and weight thresholds and restrictions for liquids, granular products, sharp items, and certain other categories.

Below is an elaboration on each of these standards, highlighting the unique criteria they encompass:

• Type A – For parcel delivery of individual packaged-products weighing less than 50 lb. (23 kg).
• Type B – For parcel delivery of individual packaged-products weighing between 50 lb. (23 kg) and less than 100 lb. (43 kg).
• Type C – For parcel delivery of packaged-products weighing 100 lb. (43 kg) or more.
• Type D – For LTL (Less Than Truckload) delivery of individual packaged-products weighing less than 100 lb. (43 kg).
• Type E – For LTL delivery of individual packaged-products weighing 100 lb. (43 kg) or more.
• Type F – For LTL delivery of individual palletized packaged-products.
• Type G – For parcel delivery of individually packaged TVs and monitors that weigh less than 150 pounds
• Type H – For LTL Delivery of Individual Packaged TV/Monitor Greater Than 150 pounds (68 kg) or Greater Than 165 inches

Online marketplaces and eCommerce platforms advocate for the adoption of these SIPP standards by sellers to improve the integrity of product packaging. This initiative significantly reduces the chances of product damage and returns, leading to greater consumer satisfaction.

Self-test vs. Lab Testing

Amazon allows a limited self-drop test option for certain rigid, non-fragile packages under 50 lb, and for certain flexible, non-fragile, non-granular, non-sharp packages that fall within Amazon’s flexible-package size and weight limits. By contrast, fragile rigid packages under 50 lb require an ISTA 6-Amazon.com Type A certified lab test only. Heavier, bulkier, and TV/monitor shipments also require the appropriate ISTA 6-Amazon.com lab test.

Amazon notes that sellers can perform early design validation on their own or use an APASS or ISTA-certified lab, but certification must follow Amazon’s required method for the applicable category.

Form-factor Rules

Amazon does not always require every similar ASIN variation to be tested separately. A product family may qualify for Form Factor Certification if the related ASINs are similar in size, material, weight, and pack quantity to the primary ASIN and are not fragile, liquid, or motorized. Amazon also states that a secondary form-factor variation can qualify when its size or weight varies by no more than 25% from the primary ASIN, subject to approval.

Important Amazon Exclusions and Special Cases

Some products need extra review or are excluded from Tier 1 and Tier 2. Amazon says HAZMAT products cannot currently be certified as Tier 1 FFP or Tier 2 SIOC, though Tier 3 PFP certifications are allowed for HAZMAT items. Amazon also flags sensitive products for discreet packaging expectations and defines separate test paths for TVs and monitors.

How Long Test Results Remain Valid

Amazon states that test results are valid for two years as long as the product and packaging remain unchanged. If anything changes, a new test is required.

Expert ISTA 6 Amazon SIPP Testing Laboratory Services

As an expert in e-commerce package testing and ISTA-certified lab, Keystone Package Testing can meet all of your SIPP package testing needs. We specialize in ensuring that your product packaging meets the rigorous standards required for safe and efficient delivery.

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.

Request a quote to see why so many companies partner with Keystone Package Testing. Have a question about Amazon Ships in Product Packaging (SIPP) testing? Contact us and we will determine the best course of action.

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