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Element offers various methodologies in the following ISTA Testing Series:

• ISTA 1 Series – Non-Simulation Integrity Performance Tests This series tests the general strength and viability of packaging. It also evaluates how the product interacts inside the packaging during transit. These tests are very basic, and are generally used as a yardstick for minimum packaging requirements. Unlike later series, no environmental testing is required.
• ISTA 2 Series – Partial Simulation Performance Tests A step up from the 1 Series, these tests also determine basic performance requirements for packages. However, they also include at least one of the environmental requirements found in Series 3. These are good tests for packages that aren’t going to be put through particular strenuous transit situations.
• ISTA 3 Series – General Simulation Performance Tests Series 3 constitutes what most people generally think of as standard packaging tests. These tests simulate the forces that usually cause damage to products in shipment, such as vibration and shock, drop and impact testing, and atmospheric conditioning. They also include methods that can simulate different vehicle and types. ISTA Series 3 is chosen for product/package combinations that are prone to damage, or for routes or transit types that tend to cause more damage.
• ISTA 4 Series – Enhanced Simulation Performance Tests Series 4 utilizes the standard test methodologies from Series 3, but also uses at least one Focused Simulation Test, which is customized to mimic actual recorded conditions your packages experience during shipment and storage.
• ISTA 6 Series – Member Performance Tests Series 6 contains ISTA-accepted methodologies which have been developed by a member company to suit their specific testing needs. Element performs Series 6 tests developed by shipping giants such as Amazon, FedEx, and Sam’s Club.
• ISTA 7 Series – Development Tests Series 7 tests are specifically used in the development of transport containers and packages. These tests can be used to compare two or more designs but are not suited to evaluate the protection provided by the packaging.

One of the main considerations when choosing an ISTA testing series is the end goal you wish to achieve. Some test series offer simple strength tests, typically used as a screening test or performance benchmark. Other, more robust series include environmental simulation, like vibration and shock, which desire to simulate standard conditions your packaging might experience during storage and transit. The most comprehensive testing programs are customized to mimic the actual conditions your packages experience, allowing for more enhanced simulation testing.

After determining your end goal, an additional factor to take into account is the weight and configuration of the package. ISTA testing methods separate different weight classes and packaging types into letter categories, A through H. Packages under 150 lb (generally noted as A) are tested under a different set of guidelines than those above 150 lbs (generally noted as B). There is also a difference between testing packages destined for parcel delivery, versus those being shipped freight. Finally, you’ll want to consider whether your package is a standalone item, or split in units (referred to by ISTA as “unitized”, and marked as E).

An experienced testing laboratory can help you choose the most appropriate set of ITSA testing methodologies based upon your product and end goals. Contact Element today to discuss your project with one of our package testing experts.