A method for forming and filling a container. The method includes: determining an effective fill area of an opening of the container through which fluid can pass while a stretch rod is seated within the opening; actuating a seal pin to open a nozzle passage of the nozzle to allow the fluid to flow through the nozzle passage and through the opening to simultaneously form and fill the container; detecting a degree to which the nozzle passage is open; increasing fill velocity of the fluid to the nozzle as the nozzle passage is opened; setting fill velocity of the fluid to a maximum fill velocity when the nozzle passage is opened such that an area of the nozzle passage is at least equal to the effective fill area at the opening of the finish; and closing the seal pin after the container is formed and filled.