ISTA 1B testing is a basic, non-simulation package integrity test for products weighing over 150 pounds. The purpose of this test procedure is to determine whether a packaged product can withstand the various hazards that might occur during transportation. During the testing, the packaged product is subjected to a series of mechanical shocks, vibrations, and drops that represent transportation conditions during actual transit.
By conducting this test, the packaged product can be examined for any potential weaknesses, and modifications can be made to ensure the product arrives at its destination without damage. If applied properly, the results should allow for more efficient distribution costs, higher customer satisfaction, decreased product recall, and shortened package development time.
ISTA 1B is used to compare relative performance of package and product design variations. As with ISTA1A, ISTA 1B includes atmospheric preconditioning, vibration, and shock testing.
Pre-conditioning of the packaged product needs to happen before the test procedure can begin. The packaged product should be stored at laboratory ambient temperature and humidity for 12 hours prior to testing. The temperature and humidity are then taken and recorded when the testing begins. After the first temperature is recorded, the vibration testing can begin by placing the packaged product on the vibration table. For the vibration system, a vertical linear motion is acceptable. A tachometer is suitable for deciding vibration frequency in cycles per second or minute.
Following the vibration testing, a variety of shock testing is performed. The type of shock test can vary, and include the drop test, the incline test, the horizontal impact test, and the rotational edge drop.
Interested in ISTA 1B testing? Contact us for a free quote!
| Test Category | Test Type | Test Level | For ISTA Certification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atmospheric Preconditioning | Temperature and Humidity | Ambient | Required |
| Vibration | Fixed Displacement | 1 in (25mm) peak-to-peak at a frequency to be determined | Required |
| Shock | Drop | 6 in (150mm) | Required |
| Incline Impact | 69 in (1.7 m) per second impact velocity | - | |
| Horizontal Impact | 69 in (1.7 m) per second impact velocity | - | |
| Shock | Rotational Edge Drop | 8 in (200mm) | Required when not testing face 1 |
The primary difference is the weight of the packaged products being tested. ISTA 1A is for packages weighing 150 lb (68 kg) or less. Meanwhile, ISTA 1B is for packages weighing more than 150 lb (68 kg).
Only one sample is required for the tests in this procedure. However, ISTA recommends performing the procedure multiple times using new samples for each test.
While ISTA 1B provides a standardized testing procedure, some aspects can be tailored to specific product requirements. However, please be sure to document these changes for your records and quality assurance.
ISTA 1B is specifically for heavy packages over 150 lb, while ISTA 1A is for packages under 150 lb. Other procedures like ISTA 2A might be more suitable for international shipments, and ISTA 3A provides a general simulation test.
Purple Diamond is an ISTA-certified testing lab that is also ISO 17025 accredited. Our team of experts will help you optimize your packaging, prevent distribution damage, and enhance your customer experience with innovative testing solutions and data-driven analysis. If you’re looking for ISTA testing, ASTM testing, or even package engineering, design, and consulting, request a quote from our team.
Whether you’re looking for a team of experts to engineer your new packaging product for optimal sustainability, or seeking a team who can ensure your products stay safe and secure during transport, Purple Diamond can help.
© 2025 Purple Diamond
© 2025 Purple Diamond
