Amazon APASS vs. SIPP: What's the Difference and Which One Do You Need?
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Amazon APASS and SIPP serve different roles in the packaging certification process. SIPP is Amazon's program for eligible products that can ship in their own product packaging without Amazon added packaging. APASS is a network of packaging providers and laboratories that can support packaging design, testing, and preparation for Amazon requirements. For many sellers, the two work together rather than representing competing options.
What Is Amazon APASS?
Amazon APASS, the Amazon Packaging Support and Supplier Network, connects businesses with packaging providers and laboratories familiar with Amazon packaging requirements. An APASS provider may support package design, optimization, and testing. When laboratory testing is required, sellers can work with an APASS provider or qualified ISTA lab to complete the applicable testing.
What Is Amazon SIPP Certification?
Amazon SIPP, or Ships in Product Packaging, is a program that allows eligible FBA products to ship to customers in their product packaging without additional Amazon packaging. Products must meet Amazon's eligibility, packaging, and performance requirements. Depending on the product, certification may involve approved self-testing or third party ISTA 6 testing.
Amazon APASS vs. SIPP: Key Differences
APASS provides access to packaging expertise and testing resources, while SIPP is the Amazon program through which eligible products are certified to ship in their product packaging. Understanding that distinction makes the certification process much clearer.
| Comparison | Amazon APASS | Amazon SIPP |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | Packaging provider and laboratory network | Amazon packaging program |
| Primary role | Packaging design, testing, and technical support | Qualifies eligible products to ship in product packaging |
| Applies to | Service providers and testing laboratories | Products or eligible product groups |
| Testing role | Providers may perform relevant ISTA testing | May involve self-testing or third party ISTA 6 testing |
| Documentation | Lab can provide applicable test documentation | Seller submits required information and documentation for certification |
| End objective | Support development and validation of compliant packaging | Certification for eligible products to ship without additional Amazon packaging |
How Do APASS and SIPP Work Together?
Think of APASS support as one possible part of the path toward SIPP certification. A seller first wants a product to qualify for SIPP. The packaging is reviewed and optimized, then the appropriate testing method is identified. When external laboratory testing is required, a qualified packaging testing provider may perform the relevant ISTA test. Test documentation can then support the SIPP certification process.
Do All Products Need an APASS Lab for SIPP Certification?
No. Not every product requires third party laboratory testing for SIPP certification. Amazon permits self testing for certain eligible products. Other products may require ISTA 6 laboratory testing based on characteristics such as weight, fragility, liquids, sharp components, and packaging type. For example, Amazon currently allows qualifying products under 50 lb without liquids or sharp items to self test. Requirements vary, so sellers should check Amazon's current criteria for the exact product before choosing a testing path.
What Testing Is Required for Amazon SIPP?
Testing requirements depend on the product and its eligibility for self testing. When laboratory evaluation is required, ISTA 6 Amazon.com testing assesses whether the packaged product can withstand relevant distribution hazards. Evaluation may address drop and shock events, vibration, packaging integrity, and product protection throughout fulfillment and delivery. The goal is to evaluate the product and package as a complete system.
For a closer look at procedures and test sequences, visit Onyx Packaging's Amazon packaging testing page.
When Should You Work With an APASS Packaging Provider?
Working with an APASS packaging provider can be valuable when a product needs more than a basic eligibility review. Packaging expertise can help connect Amazon requirements with practical design, material, and testing decisions.
Your product requires laboratory testing.
A qualified provider can conduct the applicable ISTA 6 testing and supply the documentation needed for the certification process.
The existing package needs improvement.
Packaging specialists can evaluate structural design, materials, cushioning, closures, and product movement, then identify potential improvements before testing begins.
A package does not perform as expected.
Test results can reveal vulnerabilities involving impact protection, vibration resistance, package integrity, or product containment, providing direction for targeted packaging revisions.
You are developing or evaluating Amazon packaging.
An APASS provider can support package development, review testing requirements, and assess similar ASIN configurations before larger production runs or SIPP certification.
How Does the Amazon SIPP Certification Process Work?
SIPP certification moves from product eligibility and packaging review through testing and enrollment. The exact testing path depends on the product, packaging configuration, weight, and other Amazon criteria.
1. Review product eligibility
2. Evaluate the existing packaging
3. Group similar ASINs where applicable
4. Determine the required testing method
5. Complete self-testing or third-party testing
6. Review results and documentation
7. Submit/enroll the product through Amazon
APASS or SIPP: Which One Do You Actually Need?
If your goal is to have an Amazon product qualify to ship in its own packaging, SIPP is the relevant Amazon program. If you need help designing, evaluating, testing, or preparing that packaging to meet Amazon requirements, an APASS provider or lab may support the process. In practice, it is often not APASS versus SIPP at all. APASS support can be one part of the pathway toward successful SIPP certification when outside packaging expertise or laboratory testing is required.
How Onyx Packaging Can Help With Amazon Packaging Testing
For businesses navigating Amazon packaging requirements, Onyx Packaging combines structural packaging expertise with performance testing capabilities. Onyx is an ISTA certified lab and a member of Amazon's Packaging Support and Supplier Network. The team can support package evaluation, design optimization, ISTA 6 Amazon testing, and test documentation, helping businesses address both package performance and applicable SIPP requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Amazon SIPP certification expire after a certain period?
No. Amazon states that SIPP certifications do not expire. A product can, however, be decertified because of issues such as excessive damage or noncompliance. Packaging or product changes may also make reevaluation and retesting appropriate.
Do I need to retest my packaging if I change the box, adhesive, or packaging material?
Retesting may be necessary when changes could affect packaging performance. A different box, adhesive, material, closure, supplier, dimension, or product configuration can alter test results. Amazon specifically cites packaging changes without appropriate retesting as a potential decertification concern.
What happens if an Amazon SIPP certified product is later decertified?
A decertified product may need packaging adjustments, additional testing, and recertification. Amazon states that decertification can result from damage or noncompliance. Sellers should review the reason provided, correct the underlying packaging issue, and follow Amazon's current recertification requirements.
Can customers still request Amazon packaging for a SIPP certified product?
Yes. Amazon currently tells customers when an item can ship in its own packaging. For many SIPP products, customers can select additional Amazon packaging during checkout at no extra cost, while the seller can still receive the applicable SIPP fulfillment discount.
Can multiple similar ASINs be covered by the same SIPP packaging test?
Potentially. Amazon allows eligible products to be grouped according to factors including size, weight, material, packaging, and product to packaging ratio. The largest or heaviest product in an eligible group may then be selected for the required packaging test.
Does every unit of a SIPP certified product need an exterior barcode or scannable label?
SIPP products remain subject to applicable Amazon item, carton, and labeling requirements. Certified packaging should carry the required scannable identification for fulfillment. Incorrect, unlinked, or unreadable barcodes can disrupt receiving and may contribute to SIPP decertification, so current Amazon labeling requirements should be followed.
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