Amazon are inviting sellers to sign up for their new Amazon Ships in Product Packaging programme, which aims to cut down on the amount of Amazon packaging ending up on consumers’ door steps and has to be recycled. Not only does it cut down on costs for Amazon, but it also is kinder for the environment.
This programme applies to FBA sellers, by certifying products that can ship safely without an Amazon box, envelope or bag. Amazon’s first priority is to eliminate packaging altogether, with programmes like Ships in product packaging. When packaging is necessary, they optimise for reduction and recyclability.
Amazon works with brands across the globe to optimise their packaging, reducing material use while protecting products for a safe delivery. They have developed test methods in partnership with the International Safe Transit Association (ISTA), and tests are completed by Amazon’s Packaging Labs, certified third-party labs, manufacturers, and Selling Partners
Naturally, Amazon has excluded items where no added shipping packaging could result in a poor customer experience such as intimate or high-value items, fragile items, collectibles, or where handling the item may be dangerous to Amazon workers and/or our delivery partners such as items with sharp edges.
If a certified item receives several customer complaints or returns, Amazon will automatically begin shipping in Amazon packaging to protect future customer deliveries.
Naturally, there will be times when a consumers wants a little extra privacy, or wants the product packaging pristine, so if a customer is ordering a gift, or just want extra protection, they can select an option for the item to “Ship in Amazon Packaging” at no extra cost at check-out.
This new programme, (which replaces Ships in Own Container) is open for enrollment through Seller Central to all sellers who use FBA and sell into the following marketplaces: United States, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom.
To qualify for Ships in Product Packaging, your item’s packaging:
- Must be either a rigid 6-sided box, a rigid or padded mailer, or a bag
- Must meet the minimum dimensions of 6″ x 4″ x 0.375″
- For items in flexible packaging only: cannot exceed maximum dimensions 18″ x 14″ x 6″ (L+H ≤ 21″ and W+H ≤ 16″) and 7lbs
- Be securely sealed to protect product within and follow the labeling requirements per Seller Central guidelines
To learn more and get certified, visit the Get Certified Amazon page.
