Hazmat Study Test

Launched as part of Amazon’s “Packaging Mission,” the Frustration-Free Packaging (FFP) program allows product packaging to be classified into three different certification levels with different objectives. While the highest level “Frustration-Free-Packing (FFP)” (Tier 1) aims to significantly enhance customer experience while ensuring sustainability, the certification level “Ship-in-own-container (SIOC)” (Tier 2) focuses on waste reduction. The second post in the two-part blog series on “Amazon Frustration-Free Packaging” delves into certification requirements and explains steps for implementing the certifications at manufacturers.

Amazon’s certification requirements

Amazon’s product packaging certification requirements are extensive and are based on the level of certification. Among other things, they include information on the structure of the packaging, handling of hazardous products and the material to be used. For all certification levels (Tier 1 to Tier 3), Amazon stipulates that product packaging must always be hexagonal and rectangular. The goal is to make packages as easy as possible to stack and transport in the package delivery network. All package shapes must also be validated by the ISTA 6-Amazon.com test method before they are allowed to be used, and it must be ensured that all open edges are adequately sealed. Amazon is also stringent in its specifications for minimum dimensions. Tier 1 (FFP) or Tier 2 (SIOC) packaging certifications must be at least 203.2 mm long, 119.9 mm wide and 9.5 mm high. Smaller product packaging can only be certified based on Tier 3 (PFP), as it requires an Amazon outer carton to protect the product. While the requirements just mentioned focus on easier handling of packages in the Amazon fulfillment center, Amazon also wants to ensure a positive customer experience. Therefore, Tier 1 (FFP) certified product packaging must be able to be fully opened within 120 seconds – with minimal use of tools such as scissors or box cutters. Figure 1: Certification requirements Part 1 Another requirement for all certification levels is clear package marking and labeling on the package with all necessary instructions for action. Products that are classified as hazardous (HAZMAT) can generally only be certified based on Tier 3 (PFP), which allows for the use of additional filler material and an outer carton for protection. To reduce packaging waste, Amazon requires that Tier 1 (FFP) certified packaging have a product to packaging ratio of at least 30%. Also to be noted is the use of only recyclable materials, which includes corrugated and other paper-based materials, as well as specific recyclable plastic components. Figure 1: Certification Requirements Part 2 Amazon has established several principles as part of its “packaging mission.” First, the packaging must be designed in such a way that no additional repackaging, and therefore no preparation effort, is required at the Amazon fulfillment center. At the same time, it must be ensured that the packaging provides sufficient protection for the product from damage throughout the supply chain. Any packaging material must be recyclable to send to the environmental footprint. Figure 3: Principles of Amazon’s packaging mission If we now link the principles of Amazon’s packaging mission with the requirements for the certification levels, it becomes clear that only the Tier 1 (FFP) level fulfills all four principles and Tier 2 (SIOC) focuses on product protection and waste reduction. Figure 4: Summary of certification requirements

Implementation steps for certification

With the aspiration to be the most customer-centric company in the world, Amazon continuously monitors damage to products to protect a positive customer experience. This is also reflected in the complexity and requirement level for product packaging certification. The starting point of the certification process is items or packaging that are as yet untested. Manufacturers must have the packaging material certified in test laboratories accredited by Amazon in accordance with the ISTA-6-Amazon.com test procedure. The testing program includes vibration and shock tests to simulate vibrations and shocks on loading platforms of various modes of transportation, such as railroads, trucks, ships and airplanes. Drop and tilt tests are designed to simulate vertical impact loads during transportation and carrying of packages. Loads from above during transport or storage are tested with compression tests, and climatic tests are used to simulate climatic effects on the material. Product packaging that passes all the tests and thus receives a positive certification certificate can be stored with the associated ASINs (Amazon Standard Identification Number) via Vendor Central and is no longer subject to any chargebacks. Manufacturers or suppliers can also obtain testing and design support via the Amazon Packaging Support and Supplier Network (APASS) if they fail the testing procedures. Figure 5: Summary of certification requirements However, the process does not end with successful certification. Amazon continuously monitors for product damage to maintain customer protection and can require manufacturers or Require suppliers. Hazmat Study Test.