ISTA 3E Testing: Similar Packages in Unitized Loads for Truckload Shipment
ISTA 3E determines the integrity of unitized loads for truckload shipment. As an ISTA and ISO 17025 certified lab, we realize the importance of ISTA 3E unitized load testing. Meeting the ISTA 3E integrity requirements can be difficult. We understand the challenges and guide companies through the process.
Keystone Compliance provides comprehensive reports shortly after completion of the testing. We have a reputation of helping customers achieve their package certifications and our accurate test reports are delivered quickly. Lastly, we are in constant communication throughout the test process.
Request a quote to receive testing services customized to your specific needs. Contact us to receive more information on unitized load for ISTA 3E package testing.
Summary of ISTA 3E Package Testing
ISTA 3E is a general simulation test for unitized loads of the same retail or institutional packaged-products. A unitized load is defined as one or more products or packaged-products usually on a skid or pallet, but always secured together or restrained for distribution as a single load. Examples would be a stretch wrapped pallet load of individual containers, a single non-packaged machine banded to a pallet or a pallet with a corrugated tray, tube and a cap.
ISTA 3E can be used to evaluate the protective performance of packaged-products related to vibrations, shocks and other stresses normally encountered during handling and transportation. It can also be used to evaluate load stability.
The ISTA 3E test levels are based on general data and may not represent any specific distribution system. The package and product are considered together and not separately.
Some conditions of transit, such as moisture, pressure or unusual handling, may not be covered. Other ISTA Procedures may be appropriate for different conditions or to meet different objectives.
ISTA 3E covers the testing of unitized loads, made up of either single or multiple products or packages of the same products. The shipper shall determine the following prior to testing:
- What constitutes damage to the product, and
- What damage tolerance level is allowable, if any, and
- The correct methodology to determine product condition at the conclusion of the test, and
- The acceptable package condition at the conclusion of the test.
ISTA 3E testing includes atmospheric preconditioning (temperature and humidity), atmospheric conditioning (temperature and humidity), shock (incline impact, horizontal impact and rotational edge drop), compression (machine apply and release, machine apply and hold and weight and load spreader) and vibration (random).
The chart below is from the standard and provides more guidance on the testing procedure and requirements:
| Sequence # | Test Category | Test Type | Test Level | For ISTA Certification |
| 1 | Atmospheric Preconditioning | Temperature and Humidity | Ambient | Required |
| 2 | Atmospheric Conditioning | Controlled Temperature and Humidity | Temperature and Humidity chosen from chart | Optional |
| 3 | Shock (alternative methods allowed – select one test type) | Inclined Impact (Conbur) | 42in per second (1.1m per second) | Required |
| Horizontal Impact | 42in per second (1.1m per second) | |||
| 4 | Shock | Rotational Edge Drop | 8in (200mm) | Required |
| 5 | Compression (alternative methods allowed – select one test type) | 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 | |||
| 6 | Vibration | Random | Overall Grms Level of 0.54 | Required |
| 7 | Shock | Rotational Edge Drop | 8in (200mm) | Required |
Expert ISTA 3E Unitized Load Package Integrity Testing
As an ISTA-certified package testing lab, Keystone Compliance can meet your package testing needs, including ISTA 3E. By providing quick turnarounds, competitive pricing and engineering assistance, Keystone Compliance has become a leader in the package test lab industry.
Receiving a quote to complete ISTA-3E testing is as easy as completing our online quote form or calling us at (724) 657-9940.
For more ISTA Series 3 testing standards, please follow the links below: