What is Amazon Frustration Free Packaging? An [Updated] Guide

Denny Smolinski

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Wondering what Amazon's "Frustration-Free Packaging" is all about? View this updated guide and how it benefits both customers and the environment.

Blog  /  What is Amazon Frustration Free Packaging? An [Updated] Guide

amazon frustration free packaging

You probably knew Amazon was offering frustration free products. Do you have any questions regarding standards? Tell us the whole thing thoroughly. Lets start!

The frustration-free packaging contains a product made of 100% recyclable materials, easy to clean and can be shipped as a single pack which means there will never be a shipping bag for the product. Amazon said that “Frustration-Free packaging" was designed specifically to serve customers and ease product liberation and reduce waste. Today Frustration-Free Packaging contains 7450,000 items but in 2008 the program launched with only 19 of its “worst offenders”.

What Is Amazon Frustration-Free Packaging?

Amazon Frustration-Free Packaging (FFP) is designed to be recyclable, without excess packaging materials, and simple to open, reuse, or dispose of.  Products shipped inside the certified frustration-free packaging remain the same as everything included in the original manufacturer’s packaging or in simple terms "ships in product packaging"

FFP comes in minimalist designs that prioritize functionality and practicality, reducing the amount of packaging materials used and eliminating unnecessary layers of packaging. This comes from a customer-centric initiative introduced by Amazon to streamline the packaging process and enhance consumers' overall shopping experience. 

It aims to eliminate the unnecessary hassle and frustration associated with traditional packaging methods, such as excessive plastic wrap, hard-to-open packages, and unnecessary shipping boxes. This approach also benefits manufacturers and retailers. Companies that adopt this packaging standard can reduce packaging costs, optimize shipping efficiency, and enhance their brand reputation by demonstrating a commitment to sustainability and customer satisfaction.

Why should vendors and sellers care?

Currently Amazon is implementing the hassle-free package requirement. Branding companies that do not follow those guidelines could face charges or other consequences that could inhibit sales. The best way to do product testing early is to make sure that it takes time. In addition participation in programs such as Amazon Vine and other perks are possible.

How do you get started with Frustration-Free Packaging?

The first step is to take a look at the frustration free packaging requirements. These are the same for all products and services, but there are a few key things to keep in mind when doing packaging design and before apply to the certification process:

  1. Your product must be 100% recyclable
  2. You must use easy-to-open packaging
  3. Your product must be well-protected during shipping
  4. You must include all the necessary documentation
  5. You must use tamper-resistant packaging
  6. Your product must be ready to ship in a single package
  7. Your product must be properly labeled
  8. Your product must be free of sharp edges
  9. Your product must be safe for children
  10. Your product must be properly packaged for shipment
  11. Your product must be prep free packaging
  12. Limited packing materials such as packaging peanuts
  13. No need for retail packaging

After you have reviewed the requirements, you will need to fill out the FFP application so Amazon can certify packaging. This can be found on the Amazon Services website. Once you have submitted your application, you will need to wait for approval from Amazon. Once you have been approved, you will be able to start shipping your products in FFP.

What if you don't qualify for Frustration Free Packaging?

From January 2015 all buyers must register with FFP in order to receive their first FFP. Amazon's plans for the future are being considered largely unrenovated. When using FBS special packages, the packaging will need verification with Amazon. If you can't participate in FFP, you may have another option to sell FBA products:

Subscribe and save

When you offer something to the customer that they will be interested in regularly like health & beauty products, you may consider signing up and saving. Your customers are your customers, so you have a repeat purchaser.

Small and light

In the process of testing Small and Light you reduce the shipping costs and provide free shipping for your customers. Enrollment takes just six simple steps, and there are no chances.

FBA Export

In international selling, the market is different. FBA Export allows for direct international sales to your U.S. fulfillment center.

How does frustration-free packaging fit into Amazon's “Green Initiative”?

In short, it helps reduce waste! Amazon claims it has trimmed around 33% of its packaging weight by cutting around 1 million tones of packaging materials waste. They provide an example of a case study titled "Hashbro". Hashbro is a small business that creates eco-friendly bamboo toothbrushes.

They sell their product(s) on Amazon, and other platforms. In order to get their products to their customers while being eco-friendly, they utilize Amazon's renewal resources which are made up of 100% post-consumer recycled material. This helps Hashbro reach their goals of being a sustainable company while also providing a Frustration-Free Packaging (FFP) option for customers who shop with them on Amazon.

FFP is just one way Amazon is working to be more green and sustainable, not just with their packaging but with other areas of their business as well!

Cons Of Frustration-Free Packaging

One complaint on Amazon forums is the perceived cost consumers may perceive after they open the package. It is very rare as most people do not know how much service they order when selecting FFPs. Depending on the packaging the package is packed in plastic and the packaging does not have labels. It may seem crazy, however the beauty industry is selling beauty products online. The process of getting your products certified for the FFP may seem difficult for many people.

Pros Of Frustration-Free Packaging

As mentioned earlier Amazon has claimed the FFP Program was aimed at destroying countless squandered resources in its systems. As you probably imagine, you could reduce packaging and shipping costs.

Tell me the significance? Why do people ask that kind of question? These packaging options can reduce frustration and aggravation for customers receiving products from us. So you can attract repeat customers to your shop only through the simple and quick unboxing.

The Frustration-Free Packaging program has helped to reduce packaging waste and ease product liberation for Amazon customers. The program has also resulted in benefits for vendors and sellers, including early product testing, access to programs like Amazon Vine, and other perks.

While the program has been successful, there are some drawbacks, including the potential for increased costs for customers and difficulty in getting products certified for the program. Overall, the Frustration-Free Packaging program has been a positive initiative for Amazon and its customers.

Tell me the packaging requirement?

There are three certification tiers to Amazon's Frustration-Free Packaging program: If your product fails: The maximum dimensions should be 18′′ x 14′′ x 8.25′′ and the maximum height. If your product is a weight of 20 pounds or more then your product has to meet criteria for tier 1 or 2 SIOC within the program. Below are requirements for a particular category:

Does my product meet Amazon's requirements for frustration-free packaging?

This question is interesting because it is not always possible in standard packages to provide friction-free products vs. standard packages which cover the entire product line. The item must have an appropriate size for eligibility to receive FFP. This list contains everything you need to make your order.

A good bit of info on how we understand the FFP process is to view the “ASIN portfolio review”, which is available on your seller application. Tell us what Amazon is looking for when testing products that are frustration-free. The bag must be packed in about 2 minutes. 2. Packaging of the actual product is not larger than 2 cm.

Tell me the FFP or frustration-free packaging?

Amazon Frustration-Free Packaging, also known as FFP, is Amazon's alternative packaging that emphasizes easy access as well as a positive environmental theme for its customers. We believe frustration-free packaging works for eCommerce websites.

How does that work? Frustration-free, combines product security with an easy unboxing experience. These packaging styles aim to offer customers a positive perception of your brand. The purpose of the program is for you to show your customers how easy you are handling them.

Does Frustration-Free Packaging Increase My Store Traffic?

Once an item is accepted for inclusion in our hassle-free program, it will receive a unique ASIN code. An FFP logo may also be seen on your store listings, which might assist consumers in deciding between you and another business that does not.

Amazon offers several websites where users can browse the web “frustration-free”. This may serve as a “buying button”. Customers that want a special package with no packaging are likely to choose you rather than a competitor with no option.

What is the biggest benefit of having Frustration-Free Packaging?

The obvious answer is that it can save you time and money. In some cases, it can also lead to increased traffic to your store since customers will see that you offer this type of packaging. FFP can help you build a more positive relationship with your customers by making it easier for them to receive and open your products. It can also help you reduce waste and be more environmentally friendly.

Tier 1 (FFP) Requirement: Recyclable packaging

To qualify for Tier 1 FFP the package has to have 100% curb recycling material and conform to all applicable packaging regulations. Amazon has approved a variety of materials – corrugated paper, paper and plastic materials and components with SPI codes 1 and 2 – (PET), 2 – HDPE – 5 and 4 – PP. Amazon states that print or processing cannot affect recycleability. The FFP document is available here. Silica gel bags can also be used for keeping products fresh and dry.

Tier 1 & 2 (FFP) (SIOC) Requirement: Minimal Packaging

Amazon determines minimal packaging by the box-useability score which is based on the product-package ratio. For Tier 1 (FPS), and Tier 2 (SIOC) Box-Utilized product scores must exceed 30% or 50%. Amazon said fragile merchandise includes but doesn't include:

  • Any product that is not packaged with an overbox
  • Products over 18'' x 14'' x 8.25'' or 50 cm x 35.6 cm x 21 cm
  • A product with a weight of 20 pounds (9.1 kg) or more

For products that are not easily damaged and do not require an overbox, the minimum dimensions are 12'' x 9'' x 6''.

For products that are not easily damaged and do not require an overbox, the maximum dimensions are 18'' x 14'' x 8.25''.

Products that have a weight of 20 pounds (9.1 kg) or more must meet either Tier 1 or Tier 2 SIOC packaging requirements.

Amazon frustration free packaging - Frequently Asked Questions

What is Amazon frustration Free Packaging?

Amazon's Frustration-Free Packaging (FFP) is certified to be easier to open and recycle than traditional packaging. FFP-packaged products ship in their own boxes and have no additional packing material, such as wire ties, plastic bags, or Styrofoam peanuts.

Is frustration free packaging good?

Frustration-Free Packaging can be good for the environment and for customers. FFP is certified to be easier to open and recycle than traditional packaging. FFP-packaged products ship in their own boxes and have no additional packing material, such as wire ties, plastic bags, or Styrofoam peanuts.

What is the difference between frustration free and standard packaging?

The main difference between frustration free and standard packaging is that FFP is certified to be easier to open and recycle than traditional packaging. FFP-packaged products ship in their own boxes and have no additional packing material, such as wire ties, plastic bags, or Styrofoam peanuts.

What is frustration free packaging and why is it cheaper?

Amazon's frustration-free packaging is a cheaper alternative because it uses fewer materials and the materials are environmentally friendly.  Packaged products ship in their own boxes and have no additional packing material, such as wire ties, plastic bags, or Styrofoam peanuts.

Conclusion for Frustration Free Packaging

Amazon Frustration Free Packaging is a way to help reduce the amount of waste produced by packaging. This program offers products in recyclable packages and encourages customers to recycle them when they are done with them.

If you’re not familiar with Frustration Free Packaging, or need some help understanding how it works, don’t worry. We’ve got you covered. Keep reading for everything you need to know about this innovative program from Amazon. Have you tried using Frustration Free Packaging for your own products? Let us know how it went in the comments below.

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About Denny Smolinski

He is the CEO and founder of beBOLD Digital - A Full-Service Amazon and Walmart agency that focuses on Sustainable Growth and Profitability for Our Partners (clients).

Denny has been selling on Amazon since 2007 and has had to adapt for every change that Amazon has made along the way.   Amazon and Walmart are an ever changing environment and Denny has his beBOLD team ready to handle any and every challenge.

Is your brand having challenges with growth, profitability, advertising, reporting etc - If yes, please contact us today!

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Do you want more growth?

Hey, we are beBOLD.   We are determined to make your Amazon & Walmart business grow.  Our only question is, will it be yours business?

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