What is SIOC Testing?

ISTA 6-Amazon.com-SIOC is considered Level 2 in Amazon's packaging certification tiers. SIOC stands for "Ships In Own Container." Amazon's SIOC guidelines ensure that products can withstand the typical hazards of transportation. Amazon collaborates with ISTA to address the specific hazards within its distribution network. These hazards may occur during loading, shipping, or handling of products.

SIOC packaging includes eight distinct standards, based on weight, dimensions, and delivery method. See below for details on these standards.

Amazon SIOC certification testing offers many benefits to suppliers. These include reduced — and in some cases eliminated — chargebacks from Amazon for non-compliant prep. The SIOC program also provides opportunities to reduce packaging and inbound shipping costs. Products that meet SIOC (Ships In Own Container) packaging requirements comply with ISTA 6 Amazon SIOC standards.

ISTA, the International Safe Transit Association, is the governing body for most packaging test standards.

Amazon's ISTA package testing is referred to as Amazon ISTA 6 testing. This can include Amazon drop tests, inclined impact tests, and vibration tests. SIOC packages do not require Amazon prep and can be shipped without an Amazon Overbox (a larger outer Amazon box). Other packaging standards include Amazon FFP (Frustration-Free Packaging) and Amazon OB (Overbox).

Amazon SIOC Packaging Requirements:

- Packaging must be a rigid, six-sided box.

- Packages must not have windows or cutouts. Some small access or hand holes are acceptable.

- Padded mailers and rigid envelopes may be used, provided they meet minimum dimensions of 9" x 6" x 0.375".

- While envelopes are allowed, six-sided boxes are generally preferred.

Product Testing Type Categories with Corresponding Amazon SIOC Scopes:

- Type A (ISTA 6A):For single-item packaged products under 50 lbs (23 kg) for parcel delivery.

- Type B:For single-item packaged products from 50 lbs (23 kg) to under 100 lbs (43 kg) for parcel delivery.

- Type C:For parcel delivery of products weighing 100 lbs (43 kg) or more.

- Type D:For LTL (Less Than Truckload) delivery of single-item packages under 100 lbs (43 kg).

- Type E:For LTL delivery of single-item packages weighing 100 lbs (43 kg) or more.

- Type F:For LTL delivery of palletized single-item shipments.

- Type G:For parcel delivery of individual TVs and monitors under 150 lbs (68 kg) and girth less than or equal to 165 inches (4.19 m).

- Type H:For LTL delivery of individual TVs and monitors over 150 lbs (68 kg) or with girth exceeding 165 inches (4.19 m).

Each testing standard has its own set of testing blocks to meet Amazon SIOC requirements. To obtain ISTA 6 certification, the package must pass transport tests, which may include:

- Preconditioning

- Drop Testing:including free-fall drops, hazard drops, and selected drops.

- Impact Testing:such as inclined impact, concentrated edge impact, and bridge impact.

- Compression Testing:including both vertical and horizontal compression.

Note:Most product test types require one sample product for testing. If the item is considered fragile, five samples are required.

Amazon defines fragile items in SIOC packaging as products that are likely to break or leak during delivery. Common examples include glass, ceramics, porcelain, and clay. Liquids are defined as substances (liquid, semi-liquid, or solid) that become fluid above 70°F.

It is important to note that TVs and monitors are notclassified as fragile and cannot be tested as such. However, they have additional testing requirements. When testing multiple identical samples, all must pass every test.