ISTA 2A Package Testing
ISTA 2A package testing evaluates partial simulations for packaged products less than 150lbs. As an ISTA and ISO 17025 certified lab, we realize the importance of ISTA 2A integrity testing. Meeting the ISTA 2A transit requirements can be difficult. We understand the challenges and guide companies through the process.
Keystone Compliance partners with customers to achieve package compliance. We provide comprehensive reports shortly after completion of the testing. When packages do not meet the requirements, we assist with finding solutions. Lastly, Keystone provides the peace of mind that all of your needs will be met.
Request a quote to receive testing services customized to your specific needs. Have a question about ISTA 2A transit testing? Contact us and we will determine the best course of action.
Summary of ISTA 2A Integrity Transit Package Testing
ISTA 2A is the first standard in the ISTA 2 Series. This series is a combination of basic test elements from ISTA 1 (non-simulation integrity performance testing) and ISTA 3 (general simulation performance testing).
Test Procedure 2A covers testing of individual packaged-products weighing 150lb (68 kg) or less when prepared for shipment. The one exception is for individual packaged-products on a visible skid or pallet that weigh more than 100 pounds (45 kg). These items may be tested according to Test Procedure 2B or ISTA 3E.
The test blocks in ISTA 2A include the following:
- Atmospheric Conditioning-Temperature and Humidity.
- Compression-Compression.
- Vibration: First Sequence (Fixed Displacement)-Vibration-Fixed Displacement.
- Vibration: First Sequence (Random)-Vibration-Random.
- Shock-Shock-Drop.
- Vibration: Second Sequence (Fixed Displacement) – Vibration- Fixed Displacement.
- Vibration: Second Sequence (Random)-Vibration-Random.
The chart below is from the standard and provides more guidance on the testing procedure and requirements:
Sequence # | Test Category | Test Type | For ISTA Certification |
1 | Atmospheric Preconditioning | Temperature and Humidity | Required |
2 | Atmospheric conditioning | Controlled Temperature and Humidity | Required |
3 | Compression (Alternative methods allowed-select one test type) | Machine Apply and Release/Machine Apply and Hold/Weight and Load Spreader | Required |
4 | Vibration (alternative methods allowed-select one test type) | Fixed Displacement/Random | Required |
5 | Shock (alternative methods allowed-select one test type) | Drop/Incline Impact (conbur)/Horizontal Impact | Required |
6 | Vibration (alternative methods allowed-select one test type) | Random Fixed Displacement/ | Required |
The ISTA 2A compression test requires consideration of the following:
- Box failure that could result in a stacking failure is considered a failed test, if the packaged-product may be warehoused during distribution.
- Box failure is allowed if the packaged-product provided is not warehoused, and at the conclusion of all testing, the product is not damaged according to the Product Damage Tolerance established and the package still meets the acceptable package condition, both of which are determined in the standard.
Expert ISTA 1H Transit Package Testing
Keystone has a full lab of test equipment which permits us to provide short lead times on scheduling. In addition to ISTA 2A package integrity testing, Keystone has a full scope of expertise including leak penetration, sterile barrier, and vibration. We can accommodate flexible and rigid packages of all sizes, including large pallets.
Contact us to learn first hand why so many companies partner with Keystone to achieve their ISTA 2A packaged-product certification needs.