ISTA 3F Package Testing

ISTA 3F evaluates the integrity of mixed pallet loads during transit. As an ISTA and ISO 17025 certified lab, we realize the importance of ISTA 3F testing. Meeting the ISTA 3F package integrity requirements can be difficult. We understand the challenges and guide companies through the process.

Keystone Compliance takes a consultative approach throughout the entire test program. Our proven process helps avoid product launch delays. We provide comprehensive reports shortly after the completion of the testing. Lastly, Keystone takes pride in partnering with customers to achieve package compliance.

Request a quote and find out first hand about our competitive pricing, timely process, and outstanding reputation. Contact us to receive more information on ISTA 3F package testing.

Summary of ISTA 3F Package Integrity Testing

The ISTA 3F compliance testing standard is for packaged pallets in mixed pallet loads for regional shipments that are 100 pounds or less. This standard is a general simulation test for packaged products that are shipped as individual packages from a distribution center to a retail outlet. These shipments are in a mixed pallet configuration.

The atmospheric conditioning can include temperature testing, humidity testing, or both. ISTA 3F shipping test additionally spells out different temperature and humidity profiles for different conditions. There is hot and humid, dry heat, cold humid, and severe cold with uncontrolled humidity.

The ISTA 3F test scope includes atmospheric preconditioning, compression, shock, vibration, and more shock. There is also optional atmospheric conditioning available for shippers if they wish to include it.

Scope of ISTA 3F Integrity Testing

ISTA 3F compression testing can be applied in one of three methods. The first method is machine apply and release. The second method is machine apply and hold. The third option is applying compression with weight and a load spreader.

The company can select which ISTA 3F compression method they wish to use on their product. The compression levels are determined from a warehouse compression calculation detailed in the package test standard.

The shock testing is a series of two drop tests. The first drop test is at 12 inches. The second drop test is at 30 inches. The vibration profile required for ISTA 3F transit testing is random vibration testing. The second round of shock testing is the identical drop testing that occurred prior to the vibration test.

Unlike other ISTA test standards, six test samples are required for ISTA 3F shipping testing. The standard specifies which sample should be dropped on which side and corner.

Expert ISTA 3F Package Integrity and Transit Testing

Keystone Compliance is a certified ISTA regulatory testing lab. We have significant experience in package testing and work with hundreds of companies on an annual basis. We are also e-commerce package testing experts, having an Amazon APASS certification.

Contact us to learn first hand why so many companies partner with Keystone to achieve their ISTA transit certification needs. Request a quote and find out first hand about our competitive pricing, timely process, and outstanding reputation.

For more ISTA Series 3 testing standards, please follow the links below: