SGS-IPS Testing in Wisconsin Adds Packaging Testing Services in Response to High Demand
APPLETON, Wis., June 4, 2020 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Wisconsin-based SGS-IPS Testing recently announced that it has expanded its lab services and now offers the full suite of International Safe Transit Association (ISTA) packaging tests including ISTA 6-Amazon.com test methods.
The organization - both ISO 17025 accredited and ISO 9001 certified - received certification to complete all tests within ISTA's 7-part series which include performance and development standards for product packaging. These tests help ensure that packages will make it safely through the transit process, from the originating distribution channel to the recipient's doorstep. Packages tested include small parcels, individual shipping cartons, palletized products, insulated shipping containers and more.
SGS-IPS Testing added state-of-the-art equipment to its lab space that simulates the package distribution and delivery process and the potential elements and hazards that can come with it. Through the simulation, products are subject to things like drop tests, random vibrations, stack compression and forklift handling.
As testing is performed, the lab professionals at SGS-IPS Testing evaluate the package's design and durability and identify issues that may affect its safety, compliance or sustainability. After testing, the results and recommendations for packaging improvements are shared.
"By simulating the full transit process through all stages of the supply chain, SGS-IPS Testing is able to help our clients troubleshoot any problems with their packaging solutions," said Chris Reitmeyer, Director of Operations and Business Development for SGS-IPS Testing. "This testing can eliminate a lot of packaging headaches and easily pinpoint any inefficiencies."
With the service expansion, SGS-IPS Testing has also become one of just a select few Amazon-certified labs in Wisconsin that offers packaging testing specific to the online retailer.
SGS-IPS Testing is now set up to complete the three tiers of ISTA 6-Amazon.com testing as part of Amazon's Frustration-Free Packaging (FFP) program and certification process with tests that gauge factors like ease in opening and minimal damage/defect rates. The lab confirms what level of certification applies to packages with Frustration-Free Packaging - (FFP), Ships in its Own Container (SIOC) or Prep-Free Packaging (PFP). SGS-IPS Testing also supplies the required Amazon test results with added guidance for interpreting.
Demand for this testing continues to grow after Amazon updated its packaging requirements earlier this year. If packages fail to meet standards, Amazon may issue chargeback fees. "With so many manufacturers now shipping goods through Amazon, these testing services are a critical step to ensuring a smooth transport process," Reitmeyer said. "For 30 years, we have worked in packaging and are proud to be one of the select few labs in Wisconsin that is offering this Amazon-certified testing."
ISTA and ISTA 6-Amazon.com testing is used for all kinds of products, including food, medical devices, textiles, electronics, pharmaceuticals, cleaning products, household items, toys and furniture.
ABOUT SGS-IPS Testing
SGS-IPS Testing is located in Appleton, Wisconsin, and serves as an independent testing lab for the paper and pulp, packaging, nonwovens, personal care products, medical supplies and allied industries. It was founded in 1989 as IPS Testing and has been providing physical and analytical testing services for more than 30 years. For more information, visit https://ipstesting.com/.
SOURCE SGS-IPS Testing
