Amazon Testing FAQ's
Where do I find test report templates that Amazon will approve?
You can find report templates on Amazon’s website at the following link: click here
Can I use my own test report template for submission to Amazon?
No, you are unable to use custom test report templates for submission to Amazon. To ensure consistency across labs, and to expediate the review process, Amazon requires use of their PDF template or a report generated using the ISTA PackSight tool. ...
Who determines FFP certification?
You can find lots of good information about Amazon's requirements on their website - https://www.aboutamazon.com/sustainability/packaging Specifically for FFP, you will find the criteria in the Amazon Frustration-Free Packaging Program Certification ...
What are the tiers of Amazon approval?
Details on “Amazon Packaging Certification Guidelines” can be found on AboutAmazon.com at the following link: click here
What is involved in the ISTA 6-Amazon.com-SIOC testing?
An overview of ISTA 6-Amazon.com-SIOC can be found on ISTA.org at the following link: click here Additionally, videos of test elements being conducted can been seen on AboutAmazon.com: click here
Who determines pass or fail of testing results?
These determinations are dependent upon the particular product, package, distribution system, market, customers, and other factors and can vary widely. Therefore product damage and allowable package degradation must be defined by the shipper, ...
Do I need to send the test report to ISTA?
There is no requirement for the test reports to be sent to ISTA; however, ISTA members can submit their reports for ISTA verification and ISTA Package Certification.
How much does it cost to have testing done?
An ISTA certified lab will assist in providing a quote for testing services. ISTA certified test labs are independent businesses so pricing could vary. Additionally, ISTA has a strong anti-trust policy through our non-profit association status so ...
How long will testing take?
ISTA certified test labs are independent businesses so timing could vary. It is recommended to reach out directly to an ISTA certified lab for more information on timing. You can locate a testing lab near your through the Find A Lab tool on ...
Are there test labs near me or near my manufacturing location?
You can locate a testing lab near your through the Find A Lab tool on ISTA.org.
Who do I contact with questions about Amazon's Frustration Free Packaging Program?
ISTA is only able to address matters that relate to the test protocols themselves. Amazon is leveraging ISTA’s test protocols as part of an Amazon led initiative to help vendors enhance their packaging. Questions about who can participate in the ...
Do I need to test every ASIN?
Read Amazon’s “Form-Factor Certification Rules” at the following link for more information: click here
What is an ASIN?
ASIN stands for Amazon Standard Identification Number. This is Amazon’s term for Stock-Keeping Unit (SKU).
What packages qualify for Amazon's incentive program i.e. the “letter?”
Definitions for what packages qualify can be found on Amazon’s website under “Frustration-Free Packaging Vendor Incentive Program FAQ’s”.
What is APASS and will Amazon accept reports from non-APASS labs?
Amazon’s Packaging Support and Supplier Network (APASS) is a program that was initiated by, and is led by, Amazon. Questions regarding the APASS program need to be directed to Amazon at CPEX-lab-trainers@amazon.com While there are likely business ...
Why is Amazon leveraging laboratory testing as part of their Frustration-Free Packaging program?
As stated in Amazon’s letter to its vendors “Packaging is a critical component of providing a great customer experience and an important part of our sustainability mission at Amazon.” You can read the full letter as well as FAQ’s at AboutAmazon.com ...
Under which ISTA 6-Amazon.com-SIOC test type does my packaged-product fall?
ISTA 6-Amazon.com-SIOC Packaged-Product Test Types: Type A: Shipment Method: Parcel Delivery of Individual Packaged-Products Handling Method: Standard Handling Method Weight & Dimensions: Less than 50 lb (23 kg) & Girth equal to or less than 165” ...
I need to have my packages tested for Amazon. What do I do?
You need to contact an ISTA certified testing lab capable of performing the testing you require. To find an ISTA certified testing lab that can conduct Amazon testing requirements, see the following steps. The process begins with the Find A Lab tool ...
What is ISTA’s role in ISTA 6-Amazon.com testing?
ISTA is a not-for-profit trade association with a mission to empower organizations and their people to minimize product damage throughout distribution and optimize resource usage through effective package design. In efforts to achieve this mission ...