These tests methods were developed by ISTA, in cooperation with Amazon.com, to evaluate individual packages to suit their own particular purposes and handling logistics and to help vendors comply with the Frustration-free packaging program.
ISTA 6 Amazon is subdivided in several types of packaged products: Type "A” through Type "H” depending on their:
> Shipment Method (Parcel delivery of individual packaged products, or LTL delivery of individual packages product);
> Handling Method (Standard Handling or Pallet Handling);
> Weight (Less than 50 lbs, 50 to 100 lbs, over 100 lbs).
Amazon established the Frustration-Free Packaging Program inspired by the industry to create a minimal, protective and more functional packaging for customers.
In order to get Amazon Certified Frustration-Free Packaging, tests must be conducted according to the International Safe Transit Association test methods: ISTA 6-Amazon.com (SIOC) used for Tier 1 (FFP) and Tier 2 (SIOC) testing, or ISTA 6-Amazon.com Over-Boxing method used for Tier 3 (PFP). These ISTA 6-Amazon.com tests were developed by ISTA in cooperation with Amazon and have been designed as simulations that challenge the capability of the package and product to withstand common transport conditions. All the specification can be found in the Amazon Frustration-Free Packaging Program Certification Guidelines.
Vendors will need to enroll their products/packages into Amazon’s Frustration-Free Packaging certification program (Tier 1-FFP or Tier 2-SIOC) and submit results of the ISTA 6-Amazon.com Ships in Own Container (SIOC) test method before August 1st 2019.
Amazon also created a Vendor Incentive Program, with the objective to incentivize Vendors that achieve Certification prior to the deadline. Those Vendors will receive an early adopter credit for their certified and those that have not been certified per the ISTA 6-Amazon SIOC test will be issued a chargeback.
