National Motor Freight Classification 100-AV ITEM 180 Package Testing
As a Freight Classification Development Council (FCDC) certified lab, Keystone Compliance realizes the importance of NMFC 100-AV ITEM 180 package compliance testing. Meeting the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) package testing requirements can be difficult. We understand the challenges and guide companies through the process
Keystone Compliance provides comprehensive reports shortly after the completion of the testing. We have a reputation for helping customers achieve their package certifications. Furthermore, our accurate test reports are delivered quickly and we are in constant communication throughout the test process.
Have a question about FCDC ITEM 180 testing? Contact us and we will determine the best course of action. Request a quote to receive testing services customized to your specific needs.
Summary of NMFC ITEM 180 Package Testing
The NMFC 100-AV ITEM 180 package testing standard evaluates the integrity of a pallet when providing an acceptable assurance level of packaging. NMFC ITEM 180 is also known as Rule 180. For the package to be authorized by this standard, the package must pass the pre-shipment tests. Multiple test specimens are recommended. However, all specimens must pass.
NMFC 100-AV ITEM 180 Package Testing Procedures
Conditioning
Generally, all specimen are conditioned in a minimum atmosphere of 23 ℃ and 50% relative humidity. This is conducted for at least 24 hours for paper-based packaging. For all others, the specimen is conditioned for at least 12 hours.
Compression and Vibration
Two methods are permissible for this test standard.
Method A: Stacked Compressive Load/Vibration
Shipping units must be vibration tested under a stacked compressive load. This is done using either an identical shipping unit or concentrated dead weight. The concentrated dead load must consist of the following:
- Corrugated trays or half-slotted-containers
- A plywood sheet with a minimum thickness of 0.5in
- Sand contained in bags that are evenly distributed over the bottom surface.
Either an identical shipping unit or concentrated dead weight load is properly positioned on the shipping unit. ASTM D4169 is used for random vibration under a stacked compressive load. Vibrations are conducted on face 3 for one hour. Vibrations are conducted on faces 4 and 6 for 30 minutes each.
Method B: Separate Compressive Load/Vibration
When testing a package to Method B, the compression test is conducted first. Then, the same shipping unit is vibration tested.
Compression testing is conducted on faces 3, 4, and 6. The tests are conducted using a compression machine (per ASTM D642) or a constant load (per ASTM D4577). Vibration testing is performed on all 3 faces using the same shipping units. Face 3 is tested for 1 hour. Faces 4 and 6 are tested for 30 minutes each.
Impact and Handling
After vibration/compression testing, the units under testing are subjected to one of three different procedures. The same shipping units are used for impact and handling
Procedure A: For packages having no external attached or integral pallet or skid and not in a palletized load.
This procedure involves performing a free-fall drop test per ASTM D5276.
Procedure B: For individual packages with external attached or integral pallets/skids, including crates.
Procedure B performs a Rotational Flat Drop Test according to ASTM D6179.
Procedure C: For palletized loads made up of a multiple number of containers or unitized loads of a bulk configuration.
This procedure requests the unit to be subjected to Procedure B and a fork truck handling test under ASTM D6055.
Concentrated Impacts
In addition to completing the testing program above, wrapped packages must be tested to conform with ASTM D6344: Standard Test Method for Concentrated Impacts to Transport Packages.
Results and Report
Keystone’s engineers pride themselves on providing quick report turnaround times. After the completion of the Freight Classification Development Council (FCDC) standard, specific information is gathered within the report of the test program. This information includes details such as the following. Note that this list is not intended to be all-inclusive.
- Shipper requesting tests
- Description of the article including model number, size, weight, and other distinguishing features
- Description of shipping unit including specifications of the container and interior packaging
- Testing performed
- Test conditions
- Acceptance criteria
- Condition of specimens
- Name of the lab testing engineer, date, email address, etc.
Expert NMFC 100-AV ITEM 180 Package Testing Facility
Keystone Compliance can accommodate flexible and rigid packages of all sizes, including large pallets. Our team strives to give our customers more time and energy on product development instead of testing. Keystone has a full lab of test equipment which permits us to provide short lead times on scheduling.
Request a quote to learn why we are one of the fastest-growing package test labs in the country.
Please follow the links below for more information on Freight Classification Development Council (FCDC) and National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) testing.