ISTA 2A testing uses a combination of basic, non-simulation tests from the ISTA 1 Series as well as more advanced simulation tests from the ISTA 3 Series to conduct partial simulation performance tests. This procedure evaluates the ability of packaging to protect products during distribution and can be used to evaluate packaged products intended for international distribution.
Unlike ISTA 1A, ISTA 2A uses two rounds of vibration testing, including random vibration testing. This procedure also uses compression testing, as well as atmospheric conditioning. This comprehensive testing procedure more closely replicates real-world transit conditions than non-simulation tests under ISTA 1.
ISTA 2A is offered by Purple Diamond as part of our distribution testing services.
ISTA 2A testing compares the relative performance of packaging and product design variations using atmospheric conditioning, compressive force, vibration (random or fixed displacement), and shock tests (drop or incline impact). This testing is more comprehensive than ISTA 1 but does not provide full simulation testing like ISTA 3A. By creating harsh, worst-case hazards in a controlled laboratory environment, our team of engineers can help you identify opportunities for packaging improvement, help you decrease product damage, and identify ways to bolster cost savings.
Interested in ISTA 2A testing? Contact us for a free quote!
| Test Category | Test Type | Test Level | For ISTA Certification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atmospheric Preconditioning | Temperature and Humidity | Ambient | Required |
| Atmospheric Conditioning | Controlled Temperature and Humidity | Temperature and Humidity chosen from chart | Required |
| Compression | Machine Apply and Release | Calculated Test Force x 1.4 | Required |
| Machine Apply and Hold | Calculated Test Force | - | |
| Weight and Load Spreader | Calculated Test Load | - | |
| 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 | - | |
| Vibration | Fixed Displacement | 1 in (25 mm) peak to peak at a frequency to be determined | Required |
| Random | Overall Grms level of 1.15 | - |
ISTA 2A is exclusively used for individually packaged products that weigh less than 150 pounds. These may include electronics like phones or tablets, small appliances like coffee makers or blenders, medical devices, or household goods. ISTA 2A testing is also recommended for more fragile items because of the comprehensive nature of testing.
ISTA 1A is a basic, non-simulation test, while ISTA 2A is a partial simulation test. This means that ISTA 2A testing more closely reflects real-world distribution scenarios. ISTA 2A also includes more types of testing. For example, in addition to fixed displacement vibration, random vibration is also an option. Compression testing is also part of the testing procedure.
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
