# ISTA 3A and Amazon packaging tests

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

Canonical: https://dielinemaker.com/standards/ista-test-procedures
Last updated: 2026-10-26

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.

## Related editable templates

- [Regular slotted shipping box](https://dielinemaker.com/dielines/shipping-box--rsc-ecom) (dieline) — Start with this exact RSC recipe; confirm board grade, closure and packed-product fit. [Open in editor](https://dielinemaker.com/create?style=shipping-box&preset=rsc-ecom)
- [Protective corner](https://dielinemaker.com/dielines/protective-corner--corner-furniture) (dieline) — Evaluate cushioning and restraint with the complete product and outer package. [Open in editor](https://dielinemaker.com/create?style=protective-corner&preset=corner-furniture)
- [Interior layer pad](https://dielinemaker.com/dielines/interior-pad--fefco-0901-layer-pad) (dieline) — Document the pad material and position in the tested assembly. [Open in editor](https://dielinemaker.com/create?style=interior-pad&preset=fefco-0901-layer-pad)

## Common questions

### Can an RSC be called ISTA certified before testing?

No. The structure alone provides no performance result. Certification concerns the tested packaged product under the applicable process.

### Does passing 3A automatically satisfy Amazon requirements?

No. Confirm the Amazon programme and distribution scenario, required procedure and acceptance process for the product.

## Sources and further reading

- [ISTA: test procedures](https://ista.org/test_procedures.php)
- [ISTA: selecting tests and retesting](https://www.ista.org/getting_started_with_design.php)
- [ISTA: procedure technical changes](https://ista.org/news_manager.php?page=16054)

## Related

- [FEFCO box codes and corrugated styles](https://dielinemaker.com/standards/fefco-codes)
- [Pallet sizes: Euro, EPAL 2 and UIC references](https://dielinemaker.com/standards/pallet-sizes)
- [Converter style libraries and supplier dielines](https://dielinemaker.com/standards/converter-style-libraries)
- [All packaging standards](https://dielinemaker.com/standards)
- [Use a supplier dieline](https://dielinemaker.com/learn/supplier-dielines)