Frustration free packaging is more than just making parcels a breeze to open; it’s about being mindful about your product’s journey from the warehouse to your customers’ doorstep.
If you think packaging is nothing but a practical aspect of receiving an ordered product, think again.
Data from the Unboxing Survey reveals that almost six in every ten companies use branded packaging, while over four in every ten buyers claimed that branded packaging encourages repeat purchases.
Consumers’ Insights on Branded Packaging (Source – Macfarlane PackagingBelow, we discuss the benefits of Amazon Frustration Free Packaging. We’ll also discuss how to enroll in the program and how embracing frustration free packaging can boost your business to new heights.
What is Frustration Free Packaging?
Frustration Free Packaging (FFP) is a streamlined approach to product packaging designed to do the following:
- Simplify unboxing
- Reduce waste
- Promote sustainability
Unlike traditional packaging that often includes excess plastic and difficult-to-open materials, frustration-free packaging is easy for customers to access, requiring minimal effort to open without scissors or knives.
The packaging is made from 100% recyclable materials and is designed to minimize unnecessary components, cutting down on waste and improving the environmental impact of shipping.
Frustration Free Packaging vs. Standard Packaging
What are the main differences between Frustration Free Packaging and Amazon standard packaging?
For one, standard packaging often includes extra layers and multiple materials, which may increase protection but also contribute to waste.
Frustration Free Packaging, meanwhile, is designed to offer a simplified, eco-conscious experience. That said, it prioritizes sustainability by using eco-friendly packages made from recyclable materials.
In fact, the Amazon Frustration Free Packaging experience eliminates unnecessary components, such as:
- Plastic bags
- Blister packs
- Clamshells
- Shredded paper
- Foam peanuts
- Twist ties
To give you an idea of how much the amount of packaging is reduced, The New York Times juxtaposed standard packaging (left) and Frustration Free Packaging (right) in an image that, although released over a decade ago, remains relevant today:
Standard Packaging vs. FPP (Source – The New York Times)In terms of logistics, meanwhile, standard Amazon packaging often requires additional labeling and handling, which can increase time and costs for sellers.
Frustration Free Packaging, on the other hand, is also more efficient, with proper shipping labels applied directly to the product packaging. This eliminates the need for extra boxes, reducing delays in the shipping process.
Benefits of Frustration Free Packaging for Sellers
Here are some of the benefits of Frustration Free Packaging for Amazon sellers:
Customer Satisfaction
Research by GWI shows that 42% of consumers in the US and the UK consider the use of sustainable materials a crucial factor in their everyday purchasing decisions.
Adopting Amazon’s Frustration Free Packaging leads to higher customer satisfaction due to its simplified unboxing experience. Without dealing with clamshells, twist ties, or excessive plastic, customers can access their products more easily.
The Importance of Sustainable Materials for Consumers (Source – GWI)Sustainability
Aside from gaining the trust of consumers, the program also allows brands to hit their environmental targets and participate in reducing packaging waste.
A study found that ecommerce packaging generates 165 million tons of waste per year. FPP can help reduce this number, resulting in a dramatic decrease in the waste sent to landfills.
Cost Efficiency for Sellers
By reducing the amount of material used and optimizing package size, sellers can lower both material and shipping costs.
The Amazon SIPP (Ships In Product Packaging) program further enhances this by allowing products to ship in their original packaging without additional boxes, reducing shipping costs due to the smaller, lighter packages.
Other Amazon Packaging Certifications
Frustration Free Packaging is the first among three main tiers of packaging certification system. Also included in the tiers are Ships In Own Container (SIOC) and Prep-Free Packaging (PFP).
Frustration Free Packaging (FFP)
Frustration-Free Packaging is the most sustainable option Amazon offers. Products in this tier are shipped in their original packaging without the need for additional boxes.
Packaging should also pass the ISTA 6A transit test to ensure that it can withstand the shipping process without compromising product safety.
Ships In Own Container (SIOC)
SIOC refers to products that are shipped in their own packaging without an additional outer box, but the packaging may not be as strictly optimized as FFP:
- SIOC packaging must still meet certain sustainability and recyclability standards.
- The product’s packaging must be robust enough to ship directly to the customer without requiring an over-box, protecting the item through normal shipping conditions.
- SIOC certification focuses more on durability and protection, especially for larger or bulkier products that cannot meet FFP requirements.
Prep-Free Packaging (PFP) – Tier 3
PFP packaging is designed to minimize the need for additional preparation or repackaging by Amazon. It requires minimal preparation at Amazon’s fulfillment centers, reducing labor and handling costs.
Amazon Packaging Tests (Source: The Compliance Management Group)How to Get Started with Frustration Free Packaging
Follow these steps to enroll in Amazon’s FFP program:
Evaluate Your Current Packaging
Check your packaging and see if it meets Amazon’s sustainable packaging requirements.
For one, it’s crucial to ensure that it uses 100% recyclable materials and avoids unnecessary plastic or other non-recyclable elements.
In addition, make sure that packaging is easy to open without requiring tools like scissors.
Optimize Packaging Design
If your packaging doesn’t meet requirements, redesign it to ensure that the size, materials, and waste are minimal. In addition, you also need to ensure that it stays durable during shipping. Eliminate the need for over-boxing by creating a package that can ship as is.
Ensure the packaging passes Amazon’s requirements for strength and safety, so it can withstand shipping conditions.
Get Packaging Tested
Submit your packaging for ISTA-6A testing, which simulates shipping conditions like drops and vibrations.
Work with Amazon’s Packaging Support and Supplier (APASS) network if you need assistance in designing packaging that meets the testing standards.
Prepare for Shipment
Once your packaging passes testing, ensure the correct shipping labels for FBA packages are applied. This is crucial because your product will ship in its own packaging, and the label must be clear for Amazon’s fulfillment centers.
Submit Certification
After passing testing, upload the certification documents to Amazon’s Vendor Central or Seller Central. Follow Amazon’s enrollment instructions to complete the process.
Monitor Performance and Earn Incentives
After enrolling, monitor your product’s performance. You may also qualify for financial incentives, like lower packaging fees or special promotional benefits, once your product is certified under FFP.
Guidelines for FFP Certification and Actionable Tips
Here are the essential guidelines for getting your product FFP certified, along with actionable tips to help you succeed.
Use 100% Recyclable Materials
All packaging materials used in FFP must be 100% recyclable. This means avoiding non-recyclable plastic, foam, and excess packaging components like blister packs and wire ties. Amazon prioritizes eco-friendly packaging to reduce waste and align with sustainability goals.
- Actionable Tip. Switch to materials like corrugated cardboard and paper-based inserts that offer protection without compromising recyclability. Partner with a supplier who specializes in sustainable packaging to ensure all components meet the certification requirements.
Design for Easy Unboxing
Packaging should be easy for customers to open in under two minutes, without the use of scissors, knives, or other tools.
Amazon focuses on reducing customer frustration, making it important to eliminate complex packaging elements such as zip ties or sealed plastic clamshells.
- Actionable Tip. Conduct unboxing tests with potential customers. Use their feedback to refine the packaging design, ensuring it’s intuitive and simple to open while still offering product protection during shipment.
Minimize Packaging Size
Your packaging must be right-sized, with minimal empty space and extra materials. Over-boxing or using excessive filler materials is not allowed in the FFP program. Efficient sizing reduces shipping costs and environmental impact.
- Actionable Tip. Measure the volume of your product and packaging to ensure it’s optimized. You can also adjust the product-to-package ratio to fit the smallest possible box while still maintaining protection during transit.
Apply Proper Shipping Labels
FFP products are shipped without additional outer boxes, so your packaging must include shipping labels for FBA packages that are clearly visible and securely attached. Incorrect labeling can lead to delays or misplacements in Amazon’s fulfillment centers.
- Actionable Tip. Use weather-resistant labels and ensure they are applied on a flat surface of the package. This helps prevent smudging or peeling during transit, ensuring smooth handling and expedited shipping through Amazon’s logistics network.
The Bottom Line
Frustration Free Packaging is definitely more than just a packaging upgrade for your product; it’s a step toward more sustainable, efficient, and customer-friendly packaging solutions.
Whether you’re looking to cut costs, meet sustainability goals, or enhance customer satisfaction, adopting FFP can give your business a competitive edge in the ecommerce arena.
If you’re considering enrolling in Amazon’s packaging programs or need assistance with anything related to your business, AMZ Advisers can help. With expertise in managing Amazon ventures across the globe, we can help you navigate packaging certification with precision.
Author
Carla Bauto Deña is a journalist and content writer producing stories for traditional and digital media. She believes in empowering small businesses with the help of innovative solutions, such as ecommerce, digital marketing, and data analytics.
