Furniture, appliances, automotive parts, even industrial equipment…these large products may seem sturdy, but they’re still subject to drops, shocks, and impacts while making their way from the manufacturer to consumer. ISTA 1B package testing, developed by the International Safe Transit Association (ISTA), evaluates the durability of these larger (weighing over 150 pounds) packages by simulating the various stresses and strains that packages encounter during transportation. Like ISTA 1A, ISTA 1B helps minimize product damage, optimize packaging design, and ensure that even the largest packages can withstand the dangers of distribution.
ISTA 1B Package Testing: The Process
ISTA 1B package testing replicates the various hazards that packaged products might face during shipping and handling like vibrations, shocks, or sudden impacts.
The testing process typically includes the following: By subjecting packages to these controlled, reproducible stresses, ISTA 1B helps manufacturers identify potential weaknesses in their packaging designs and make necessary improvements to ensure products reach their destination undamaged
- Atmospheric Conditioning: This process involves storing the packaged product at laboratory ambient temperature and humidity prior to testing. This ensures that the package is exposed to consistent environmental conditions.
- Vibration Test: A vibration test replicates the continuous shaking a package may experience while on a truck or train. The packaged product is firmly secured on a vibration table and subjected to vibrations in three different directions.
This test simulates the continuous vibrations experienced during transit on various modes of transportation. - Shock Test: There are three types of shock tests: a drop test, incline impact test, or a horizontal impact test. The shock tests replicate sudden impacts from drops, collisions, or rough handling that can occur at various points in the distribution chain.
- Rotational Edge Drop Test: This test simulates the stresses experienced when a package is rotated or tipped during handling.
The Benefits of ISTA 1B
As with ISTA 1A package testing, ISTA 2B helps optimize costs, enhance packaging design, and improve customer experience. Benefits manufacturers can expect include:
- Improved product protection
- Cost reduction
- Enhanced customer satisfaction
- Optimized packaging design
- Improved supply chain efficiency
Not sure whether ISTA 1B will benefit your operations? Let’s dive into a quick case study. Put yourself in the shoes of “Steel Titan Industries” and consider the steps you would take to address the challenges they face. Do any of their challenges resonate with you?
A Case Study
Steel Titan Industries (fictional name) is a manufacturer of heavy machinery equipment, with products ranging from industrial generators to large construction vehicles.
Given the size and weight of their products, they have experienced challenges in ensuring that their products arrive at the customer’s location in pristine condition. Among their product line, the TitanX Pro Generator, a robust industrial generator, was facing a persistent issue during transit: corner dents, cracked outer casings, and occasional internal component damage caused by rough handling and vibrations. This led to increased shipping costs and customer dissatisfaction, prompting the company to seek a solution to improve their packaging process.
In an effort to pinpoint the cause of the damage and improve package and product protection, ISTA 1B package testing standards were implemented. The TitanX Pro Generator was subjected to a vibration test, shock test, and rotational edge drop test.
Collaborating closely with packaging engineers, Steel Titan Industries overhauled their packaging solutions to meet ISTA 1B standards. Updates included reinforced corrugated cardboard with higher burst strength, custom foam inserts designed to absorb shocks effectively, and additional cushioning materials to protect vulnerable components. The number of damage claims weren’t only reduced, but customer satisfaction improved while profit losses decreased due to reduced shipping costs and product losses.
Purple Diamond: Your Partner in Product Protection
From reducing damage claims to improving customer satisfaction and cutting costs, the benefits of ISTA 1B package testing are clear. Whether you’re shipping furniture, appliances, automotive parts, or industrial equipment, ISTA 1B ensures your packaging…no matter how large…is up to the challenges of the distribution chain.
At Purple Diamond, we specialize in package testing solutions that protect your products and your profits. Let us help you optimize your packaging to minimize risks and maximize success. Contact us today to learn more about ISTA 1B testing and how we can support your operations.
