ISTA 1C testing is an extended, non-simulation package integrity performance test for packaged-products weighting 150 pounds or less. This test, like Procedure 1A and 1B, can be used to evaluate the performance of a packaged-product in real-world transit conditions. Purple Diamond offers ISTA testing as part of our package distribution testing services.
During testing, the packaged-product is exposed to various hazards such as shocks, vibrations, drops, and compression in order to identify weaknesses in the packaging’s designs and reduce the risk of damage during transportation. Benefits include more efficient distribution costs, increased customer satisfaction, and decreased product recall.
ISTA 1C compares the relative performance of package and product design variations using compressive force, vibration, and shock tests.
There are two different compression tests: the apply-and-release-test and the apply-and-hold-test. The equipment used to measure the compressive force consists of a compression test system and a weight and load spreader. Other equipment needed to complete testing include a vibration test system, a rotary, a metal shim, a tachometer, and a stopwatch. The types of shock tests include but are not limited to, the drop test, the incline impact test, and the horizontal impact test.
Interested in ISTA 1C testing? Contact us for a free quote!
| Test Category | Test Type | Test Level | For ISTA Certification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atmospheric Preconditioning | Temperature and Humidity | Ambient | Required |
| Compression Conditioning | Machine or Static | Calculated Test Load or Force | Required |
| Vibration | Fixed Displacement | 1 in (25 mm) peak to peak at a frequency to be determined | Required |
| Random | Overall Grms level of 1.15 | - | |
| Shock | Drop | Height varies with packaged-product weight | Required |
| Incline Impact | Impact Velocity varies with packaged-product weight | - | |
| Horizontal Impact | Impact Velocity varies with packaged-product weight | - |
ISTA 1C is designed for individual packaged products weighing 150 pounds (68 kg) or less. Examples of products include consumer electronics, medical devices, food and beverage items, and retail packaged goods.
The package and product together are evaluated together; meanwhile, factors such as temperature, humidity, compression, vibration, and shock are considered during testing.
The test sequence includes atmospheric measurement, compression, vibration testing (fixed displacement and random), and shock testing (drop or impact)
ISTA 1C includes compression testing, which is not part of ISTA 1A. Additionally, ISTA 1C provides alternative vibration testing options, whereas ISTA 1A uses fixed displacement vibration only.
Fixed displacement vibration in ISTA 1B reflects its focus on heavier packages with different handling dynamics compared to lighter packages.
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
