Testing and production

ISTA 3A and Amazon packaging tests

Choose a distribution test around the packed product and route, then prepare a repeatable sample.

DielineMaker · Updated 26 October 2026

Illustration of packaging concepts. See the templates below for editable geometry.

ISTA procedures evaluate packaged-product performance under defined distribution hazards. ISTA 3A and the Amazon 6-series procedures address different shipment situations; none is a box-style code.

An editable dieline is preparation for a physical package, not an ISTA pass. Test selection, current procedure details and any certification must be handled through the appropriate testing process.

Choose by distribution route

ISTA selection guidance lists 3A for North American parcel shipments of 150 lb (68 kg) or less. Its Amazon procedures distinguish products shipped in their own containers from retail packages placed in an overbox.

Reference	What it means	Design use
ISTA 3A	Parcel delivery test for the relevant packaged-product category.	Confirm weight, package form and current procedure with the lab.
6-Amazon.com-SIOC	Ships in Own Container distribution scenario.	Evaluate the complete shipment without an added Amazon overbox.
6-Amazon.com-Over Boxing	Retail package travelling within an Amazon overbox.	Evaluate the appropriate retail-package configuration.
Current revision	Procedures and technical changes are maintained by ISTA.	Record the version used in the test plan and report.

Freeze the sample specification

Document the product, board grade, dimensions, inserts, closures and assembly method. A successful result applies to the configuration tested.

ISTA advises retesting when changes to the product, packaging or process may affect performance. Keep resized or materially altered templates linked to a new review instead of inheriting an earlier pass automatically.