ISTA, the International Safe Transit Association, is an organization focused on the specific concerns of transport packaging. It is one of the most important industry developers of testing protocols and design standards, the ISTA standards, which define how packages should perform to ensure the protection of their contents during the ever-changing risks of the global distribution environment.
ISTA 3A is the general simulation for small parcel delivery (≤150lbs), while ISTA 6-Amazon is specifically tailored for the Amazon fulfillment network. CME’s testing equipment is designed to switch between these profiles seamlessly, ensuring your packaging survives the “Last Mile” delivery.
| Test Type | Recommended CME Machine | Key Specification |
| Drop Test | Free-fall Drop Tester | Meets ASTM D5276 / ISO 2248 |
| Vibration | Electrodynamic Shaker | Supports Random/Sine/Shock |
| Impact | Inclined Impact Tester | Complies with ASTM D880 |
| Compression | Box Compression Tester | Real-time force-displacement curves |
EXPERT FAQ ON ISTA TESTING PROTOCOLS
ISTA 3A simulates the complex environment of parcel delivery systems (like UPS/FedEx). It combines vibration, drop, and atmospheric tests, making it the benchmark for brands selling on Amazon and eBay.
Yes. Our drop test machines come with specialized Hazard Blocks and guided-drop accessories to meet the specific requirements of Test Block 12 and 13 in the ISTA 3A procedure.
Fixed Displacement (ISTA 1 Series) is a basic repetitive shock, while Random Vibration (ISTA 2/3/6 Series) simulates the actual spectrum of a moving truck or airplane. CME’s shakers provide high-precision Grms control for both.
Packaged Products Weighing ≤ 150 lbs(68kg): ISTA 1A, 2A, 3A, 1C,1G Packaged Products Weighing > 150 lbs.: ISTA 1B, 2B,3B,1H Unitized Loads (Palletized): ISTA 1E,3B,3E Furniture: ISTA 2C European Consumer Goods: ISTA 3K An ISTA-certified horizontal impact tester is able to simulate the horizontal shocks produced by various means of handling and transportation that may affect the load. There are a number of ISTA procedures that require this simulation machine, including ISTA 1A, B, C, E, G, H; 2A, B, C; 3B, E, K; 4 Series; 6-SAMSCLUB, 6-AMAZON. COM.
These are the most basic category of performance tests. Challenge the strength and robustness of the product + package. These series are not designed to simulate environmental incidents. Useful as screening tests, particularly when used as a consistent benchmark over time.
| Classification | Standards | Shock Testing |
| Packaged Products Weighing ≤ 150 lbs (68 kg) | ISTA 1A | Vertical Shock Test machine: accord with ASTM D 5487 Horizontal impact test system: ASTM D 4003 |
| ISTA 1C | Impact Velocity varies with packaged-product weight | |
| ISTA 1G | Similar to 1A | |
| Packaged Products Weighing > 150 lbs (68 kg) | ISTA 1B | Horizontal impact: 69 in (1.7 m) per second velocity change |
| ISTA 1D | Similar to 1B | |
| ISTA 1H | Similar to 1B | |
| Unitized Loads (Palletized) | ISTA 1E | Similar to 1B |
These series are a combination of basic test elements from ISTA 1 Series and advanced test elements from ISTA 3 Series: tests with at least one element of a 3 Series type General Simulation performance test (atmospheric conditioning or mode-shaped random vibration) as well as basic elements of a 1 Series type Non-Simulation Integrity test.
| Classification | Standards | Shock Testing |
| Packaged Products Weighing ≤ 150 lbs (68 kg) | ISTA 2A | A horizontal impact test using an ad hoc horizontal impact system that complies with the specifications outlined in the ASTM D4003 standard. ISTA 2A protocol requires the performance of a few tests to verify the resistance of the product-packaging system to shock. Specially designed transport simulation systems must be used for this purpose. |
| Packaged Products Weighing > 150 lbs (68 kg) | ISTA 2B | Similar to 1B |
| Furniture Packages | ISTA 2C | Horizontal: lmpact Velocity varies with packaged-product weight |
| Classification | Standards | Shock Testing |
| Packaged Products Weighing ≤ 150 lbs (70 kg) | ISTA 3A | Standard: Shock TEST BLOCK 12: Concentrated impact: Hazard Box dropped 400 mm (16 in) Shock TEST BLOCK 13: Bridge impact: Hazard Box dropped 400 mm (16 in) |
| Packaged Products Weighing ≤ 200 lbs (91 kg) | ISTA 3B | ≤ 200lb(91kg: Shock TEST BLOCK 10: Concentrated impact: impact mass free-fall drop, guided drop, or pendulum, 15 in (380 mm) Required only for Non-Rigid Containers Shock TEST BLOCK 17: Bridged Impact: Hazard Box dropped 16 in (410mm) Required only for Elongated packages Shock TEST BLOCK 18: Concentrated Edge Impact: Hazard Box dropped 16 in (410mm) Required only for Flat packages (over 200lb(91kg) : 1. Concentrated impact: impact mass free-fall drop,guided drop, or pendulum,15 in (380 mm) -Non-Rigid Containers 2. Concentrated Edge impact: Hazard box dropped 16 in (410 mm) -Flat packages 3. Bridged lmpact:16 in (410 mm)-Elongated packages Cylindrical: Bridged lmpact:16 in (410 mm)-Elongated packages Palletized or skidded: Concentrated impact: impact mass free-fall drop, guided drop, or pendulum,15 in (380 mm) -Non-Rigid Container |
| Unitized Loads (Palletized) | ISTA 3E | Shock test. Horizontal impact: 69 in (1.7 m) per second velocity change It is mandatory to choose between an inclined impact and a horizontal one. In both cases, the acceleration must be 1.1 meters per second (or 42 inches per second) |
| Packaged Products Weighing ≤ 100 Ib (45kg) | ISTA 3F | / |
| Bulk | ISTA 3H | Horizontal lmpact:2 mph (0.9 m/s) 15 ms half-sine 4 and 6 mph(1.8 and 2.7 m/s)300 ms Trapezoidal-Required for Rail Shipments Only |
| European Retail Supply Chain | ISTA 3K | 8 impacts at 1.35m/s(optional) 4 impacts at 0.91m/s(required) ISO 2244 or ASTM D 4003 |
| ISTA Series | Classification | Standards | Testing Standards |
| ISTA 4AB | / | ISTA 4AB | Handling:More than 50 handling tables |
| ISTA Series | Classification | Standards | Testing Standards |
| 6-FEDEX | ≤ 150 lb (68 kg) | 6-FEDEX-A | Concentrated Impact Test-Elongated Bridge Impact Test-flat (free-fall drop tester） |
| > 150 lb (68 kg) | 6-FEDEX-B | Side Impact/Tip Test /Bottom Impact Test/Raised Edge Impact Test/Raised Corner Impact Test | |
| 6-AMAZON COM-SIOC | ≤ 50 lb ( 23 kg ) & Girth up to 165 ( 4.19 m) | Type A | 1. Concentrated impact: Hazard Box dropped 16 in (400 mm)- Flat packages 2.Bridge impact: Hazard Box dropped 16 in (400 mm) -Elongated packages |
| Type D | similar to Type A | ||
| 50 Ib ( 23 kg ) to Less than 100 lb ( 45 kg) | Type B | similar to Type A | |
| 100 b(45 kg)or Greater | Type C | similar to Type A | |
| Type E | similar to Type A | ||
| Other | Type F | Concentrated impact: Hazard Box dropped 16 in (410 mm)- Flat packages | |
| 6-AMAZON COM-OBO | / | 6-AMAZON COM-OBO | / |
| 6-SAMS | Non-perishable | Type A | Type A-C: 1. Concentrated impact: Hazard Box dropped 12 in (300 mm) (domestic) 15 in (380 mm) (int’l) 2.Bridge impact: Hazard Box dropped 12 in (300 mm) (domestic) 15 in (380 mm) (int’l) |
| Type B | |||
| Type C | |||
| Perishable | Type D | / |
EXPERT FAQ ON ISTA TESTING PROTOCOLS
ISTA 3A simulates the complex environment of parcel delivery systems (like UPS/FedEx). It combines vibration, drop, and atmospheric tests, making it the benchmark for brands selling on Amazon and eBay.
Yes. Our drop test machines come with specialized Hazard Blocks and guided-drop accessories to meet the specific requirements of Test Block 12 and 13 in the ISTA 3A procedure.
Fixed Displacement (ISTA 1 Series) is a basic repetitive shock, while Random Vibration (ISTA 2/3/6 Series) simulates the actual spectrum of a moving truck or airplane. CME’s shakers provide high-precision Grms control for both.
| Classification | Standards | Drop Testing |
| Packaged Products Weighing ≤ 150 lbs (68 kg) | ISTA 1A | Among the test to be performed is the ISTA 1A drop test. This is a shock test and can be carried out with a Free fall Drop Tester |
| ISTA 1C | ISTA 1C drop test establishes a sequence depending on the orientation of the drop (corner, edge, or face) and the specific face, edge or corner to be tested | |
| ISTA 1G | Similar to 1A, the difference between both procedures resides in the vibration test type, but all the sequences and the test are the same, including ISTA 1G drop test. The drop testing involves 10 separate sequences. There is one corner drop and three edge drops. The package is also dropped on each of the six faces of the package. | |
| Packaged Products Weighing > 150 lbs (68 kg) | ISTA 1B | As in ISTA 1A, this procedure also includes a shock test that could be performed using a drop tester Drop test: 6 in (150 mm) Rotational Edge Drop: 8 in (200 mm) |
| ISTA 1D | ISTA 1D includes a shock test to be performed with other tests. The shock test category includes two drop tests: Drop test: 6 in (150 mm) Rotational Edge Drop: 8 in (200 mm) Both tests could be performed with a Free fall drop tester following the sequence determined by ISTA regarding the orientation (face) and the specific face of the packaged product that should be tested. | |
| ISTA 1H | Similar to 1D | |
| Unitized Loads (Palletized) | ISTA 1E | Rotational Edge Drop: 8 in (200 mm) Rotational drop: ASTM D 6179 |
These series are a combination of basic test elements from ISTA 1 Series and advanced test elements from ISTA 3 Series: tests with at least one element of a 3 Series type General Simulation performance test (atmospheric conditioning or mode-shaped random vibration) as well as basic elements of a 1 Series type Non-Simulation Integrity test.
| Classification | Standards | Drop Testing |
| Packaged Products Weighing ≤ 150 lbs (68 kg) | ISTA 2A | In ISTA 2A drop test height varies with package-product weight. A free fall test using a Drop Tester that complies with the ASTM D 5276 standard. |
| Packaged Products Weighing > 150 lbs (68 kg) | ISTA 2B | For ISTA 2B drop test, the test level determined 6 in (150 mm) Rotational Edge Drop: 8 in (200 mm). |
| Furniture Packages | ISTA 2C | In the case of the ISTA 2C drop test, the height of the drop varies for the package-product weight (and Distribution channel). less than 50 lb (23 kg), 50 lb (23 kg) to 100 lb (45 kg) and greater than 100 lb (45 kg). |
| Classification | Standards | Shock Testing |
| Packaged Products Weighing ≤ 150 lbs (70 kg) | ISTA 3A | Free fall drop tester: ISO 2248 or ASTM D 5276 Rotational Edge Drop:200 mm (8 in) ISO 2876 or ASTM D 6179 Full Rotational Flat Drop: Varies with packaged-product dimensions The drop tester simulates drops and rotational impacts that affect the packages and products during handling and distribution. In order to perform the drop tests outlined in the procedure, we will also need certain hazards, such as a block or a box. Standard: Shock TEST BLOCK 3: Drop: 9 Drops – height varies with packaged-product weight Shock TEST BLOCK 9 Drop: 8 Drops – height varies with packaged-product weight. includes drop-on hazard SMALL Packaged-Product Test: Shock TEST BLOCK 3 Drop (not in a bag): 9 Drops – height varies with packaged-product weight |
| Packaged Products Weighing ≤ 200 lbs (91 kg) | ISTA 3B | ≤ 200lb(91kg: Shock TEST BLOCK 3: Free-Fall Drop: 6 drops-height varies with packaged-product weight Shock TEST BLOCK 11: Free-Fall Drop: 6 drops-height varies with packaged-product weight Shock TEST BLOCK 16: Full Rotational Drop: 2 drops, Required only for Elongated packages (over 200lb(91kg) : Rotational Drop:9 in.(230 mm) Rotational edge and corner drops Full Rotational drop:1 drop-Elongated / 2 drops-Flat Cylindrical: Free-Fall Drop: 6 drops-height varies with packaged-product weight Palletized or skidded: Rotational Drop: Rotational edge and corner drops: Height varies with packaged-product weight |
| Unitized Loads (Palletized) | ISTA 3E | Rotational drop shock from a height of 200mm or 8 inches. This is a mandatory test. |
| Packaged Products Weighing ≤ 100 Ib (45kg) | ISTA 3F | 12 and 30 in(310 and 760 mm) 18 and 24 in(460 and 610 mm) |
| Bulk | ISTA 3H | Rotational Flat Drop:4 in (100 mm) Rotational Edge Drop:4 in (100 mm)-ASTM D 6179 |
| European Retail Supply Chain | ISTA 3K | Placement drop:5 impacts in various orientations,150mm Drop-on: impacting top of the lower package, base of upper package, 150/300mm Flat drop:1 drop from 60mm ISO 2248 or ASTMD 5276 |
For palletized or unitized loads, maintaining balance is critical for safety during transit. Check out our high-precision KRD200 Center of Gravity Measurement System to ensure your large palletized loads meet ISTA 3B balance requirements and prevent tipping risks during simulation.
| ISTA Series | Classification | Standards | Testing Standards |
| ISTA 4AB | / | ISTA 4AB | / |
| ISTA Series | Classification | Standards | Testing Standards |
| 6-FEDEX | ≤ 150 lb (68 kg) | 6-FEDEX-A | Free-Fall Drop Test Procedures: We employ a free-fall drop tester* to drop packages onto a flat, firm, nonyielding steel base. We vary the drop height based on the package weight shown in the chart. For international products, we conduct a second sequence of free-fall drop tests following the vibration test. |
| > 150 lb (68 kg) | 6-FEDEX-B | / | |
| 6-AMAZON COM-SIOC | ≤ 50 lb ( 23 kg ) & Girth up to 165 ( 4.19 m) | Type A | Free-Fall Drop: 8/9 drops; Rotational Edge Drop: 9 in (230 mm) |
| Type D | Free-Fall Drop: 6 drops – 18 in (460mm)max; 6 drops – 32 in (810mm) max | ||
| 50 Ib ( 23 kg ) to Less than 100 lb ( 45 kg) | Type B | similar to Type A | |
| 100 b(45 kg)or Greater | Type C | Rotational FLAT Drop: 9 in (230 mm); Rotational EDGE Drop: 9 in (230 mm) | |
| Type E | similar to Type C | ||
| Other | Type F | Rotational FLAT Drop: 9 in (230 mm) Rotational EDGE ; Drop: 9 in (230 mm) Rotational CORNER; Drop:9 in (230 mm) | |
| 6-AMAZON COM-OBO | / | 6-AMAZON COM-OBO | 8/9 drops. ln compliance with the apparatus section of ISO 2248 and ASTM D 5276 |
| 6-SAMS | Non-perishable | Type A | Type A: 1.Rotational FLAT Drop:6 in (150 mm)(domestic) 8 in (200 mm) (int’I) 2.Rotational EDGE Drop:4 in (100 mm) (domestic) 6 in (150 mm) (int’I) 3.Free-Fall Drop Bottom Orientations:15 in (380 mm)(domestic) 18 in (460 mm) (int’I) |
| Type B | |||
| Type C | |||
| Perishable | Type D | Type D: Rotational EDGE Drop:4 in (100 mm) (domestic) 6 in (150 mm) (int’I) Free-Fall Drop Bottom Orientations:15 in (380 mm)(domestic) 18 in (460 mm) (int’I) |
Contact us for the latest drop test machine price.
EXPERT FAQ ON ISTA TESTING PROTOCOLS
ISTA 3A simulates the complex environment of parcel delivery systems (like UPS/FedEx). It combines vibration, drop, and atmospheric tests, making it the benchmark for brands selling on Amazon and eBay.
Yes. Our drop test machines come with specialized Hazard Blocks and guided-drop accessories to meet the specific requirements of Test Block 12 and 13 in the ISTA 3A procedure.
Fixed Displacement (ISTA 1 Series) is a basic repetitive shock, while Random Vibration (ISTA 2/3/6 Series) simulates the actual spectrum of a moving truck or airplane. CME’s shakers provide high-precision Grms control for both.
| Classification | Standards | Vibration Testing |
| Packaged Products Weighing ≤ 150 lbs (68 kg) | ISTA 1C | Overall Grms level of 1.15 Random mechanical vibration shaker complying with the apparatus section of ASTM D 4728 |
| ISTA 1G | During vibration integrity testing, the package is placed on four different faces. The test duration for each face is called out in the ISTA 1G test procedure. Overall Grms level of 1.15 Random Vibration Test System complying with the apparatus section of ASTM D 4728 | |
| ISTA 1D | Similar to 1C | |
| ISTA 1H | Similar to 1C | |
| Unitized Loads (Palletized) | ISTA 1E | Alternative Random: Overall Grms level of 1.15 Random Vibration Test System complying with the apparatus section of ASTM D 4728 |
| Classification | Standards | Vibration Testing |
| Packaged Products Weighing ≤ 150 lbs (68 kg) | ISTA 2A | Overall Grms level of 1.15 Random Vibration Test System complying with the apparatus section of ASTM D 4728. The vibration system must meet the ASTM D999 standard when performing the fixed displacement test, and the ASTM D4728 standard when performing random vibrations. The vibration test reproduces the vibration motions that might be experienced during goods transportation, both in the vehicle and during loading & unloading. Performing it requires the use of a vertical vibration system, which can go one step further and achieve results that are closer to real transportation conditions. In addition, the method indicates that the operator may opt to perform random vibrations during both tests or run one test with random vibrations and another one with a fixed displacement system. In all cases, the type of vibrations that have been tested for must be specified in the test result records. |
| Packaged Products Weighing > 150 lbs (68 kg) | ISTA 2B | Overall Grms level of 1.15 Random Vibration Test System complying with the apparatus section of ASTM D 4728 |
| Furniture Packages | ISTA 2C | The next test sequence in ISTA 2C testing is vibration testing. This test sequence requires random testing under a dynamic load. The top-load simulates freight on top of a floor-loaded shipping unit in a 108-inch trailer. There are three levels of top-load test levels. Level one is 12 pounds per foot cubed. Level two is 10 pounds per foot cubed. Level three is eight pounds per foot cubed. The level three method assumes that the carrier uses air-ride trucks. There are several requirements for the top load. It must be larger than the test specimen. However, it must not overhang the specimen by more than one and a half inches. It must also spread the weight out evenly across the entire test unit. |
| Classification | Standards | Vibration Testing |
| Packaged Products Weighing ≤ 150 lbs (70 kg) | ISTA 3A | Random With and Without Top Load: frequency:1-200Hz 1. Overall Grms level of 0.53 / 47.12 mm (1. 855 in) 2. Overall Grms level of 0.46 /58.72 mm (2.312in) 3. Low pressure:2-300Hz, Grms level of 1.05, 7.52mm(0.296in) accord with IS0 13355 or ASTM D4728 Random vibration system: This machine must comply with the equipment section of ISO 13355 or ASTM D 4728. Using the vertical vibration system, the vibrations that take place during the package distribution cycle, whether by road or sea, can be simulated. |
| Packaged Products Weighing ≤ 200 lbs (91 kg) | ISTA 3B | Vertical vibration: Random With Top Load: Overall Grms levels of 0.54 |
| Unitized Loads (Palletized) | ISTA 3E | Random vibration test, which is mandatory. Vertical vibration: Random With Top Load: Overall Grms levels of 0.54 |
| Packaged Products Weighing ≤ 100 Ib (45kg) | ISTA 3F | Vertical vibration: Random With Top Load: Overall Grms levels of 0.54 |
| Bulk | ISTA 3H | Random: Overall Grms level varies with Mode of Transport 1. For Steel Spring Truck: overall Grms level of 0.54/ 45.13 mm (1.777in) frequency 1-200Hz 2. For Air-ride Truck: Grms level of 0.28/ 82. 58 mm (3.251in) 0.6-100Hz 3.For railcar:overall Grms level of 0.13/21.26 mm ( 0 . 837in) 1-100Hz |
| European Retail Supply Chain | ISTA 3K | Random: Overall Grms level of 0.28 for 40 minutes followed by 0.517 for 60 seconds IS0 13355 or ASTM D4728 |
| ISTA | Classification | Standards | Testing Standards |
| ISTA 4AB | / | ISTA 4AB | Random Vibration with and/or without a Top Load: 17 vibration spectra with more being added. For Steel Spring Truck:frequency:1-200Hz |
| ISTA Series | Classification | Standards | Testing Standards |
| 6-FEDEX | ≤ 150 lb (68 kg) | 6-FEDEX-A | Random Vibration Test Procedures. We perform the random vibration test on a vertical electrohydraulic vibration machine equipped with computerized controls. To perform this test, we use the following procedures. 1. Program the vibration system to reproduce three consecutive sequences of random vibration profiles representing the FedEx distribution environment as indicated in the spectra profiles. • Truck vibration at 0.52 Grms (profile one). • Air vibration at 1.06 Grms (profile two). • Repeat truck vibration at 0.52 Grms (profile one). |
| > 150 lb (68 kg) | 6-FEDEX-B | Random Vibration Test Procedures. We perform the random vibration test on a vertical electrohydraulic vibration machine equipped with computerized controls. To perform this test, we use the following procedures. 1. Program the vibration system to reproduce three consecutive sequences of random vibration profiles representing the FedEx distribution environment as indicated in the spectra profiles. • Truck vibration at 0.52 Grms (profile one). • Air vibration at 1.06 Grms (profile two). • Repeat truck vibration at 0.52 Grms (profile one). | |
| 6-AMAZON COM-SIOC | ≤ 50 lb ( 23 kg ) & Girth up to 165 ( 4.19 m) | Type A | Random With and Without Top Load: 1.Overall Grms level of 0.53 / 47.12 mm (1. 855 in) 2. Overall Grms level of 0.46 /58.72 mm (2.312in) |
| Type D | Random with Top Load: Overall Grms levels of 0.54 / 45.13mm ( 1.777in) peak-to-peak | ||
| 50 Ib ( 23 kg ) to Less than 100 lb ( 45 kg) | Type B | similar to Type A | |
| 100 b(45 kg)or Greater | Type C | similar to Type A | |
| Type E | similar to Type D | ||
| Other | Type F | Vertical Vibration: Random With Top Load: Overall Grms level of 0.54 | |
| 6-AMAZON COM-OBO | / | 6-AMAZON COM-OBO | Random: Overall Grms level of 0.53. Random Vibration Test System complying with the apparatus section of lS0 13355 or ASTMD 4728. |
| 6-SAMS | Non-perishable | Type A | Type A: Vertical Vibration Random: Overall Grms level of 0.46 Random All 3 Specimens Stacked Vertically: Overall Grms level of 0.55 1 hour |
| Type B | |||
| Type C | |||
| Perishable | Type D | / |
EXPERT FAQ ON ISTA TESTING PROTOCOLS
ISTA 3A simulates the complex environment of parcel delivery systems (like UPS/FedEx). It combines vibration, drop, and atmospheric tests, making it the benchmark for brands selling on Amazon and eBay.
Yes. Our drop test machines come with specialized Hazard Blocks and guided-drop accessories to meet the specific requirements of Test Block 12 and 13 in the ISTA 3A procedure.
Fixed Displacement (ISTA 1 Series) is a basic repetitive shock, while Random Vibration (ISTA 2/3/6 Series) simulates the actual spectrum of a moving truck or airplane. CME’s shakers provide high-precision Grms control for both.
| Classification | Standards | Testing Standards |
| Packaged Products Weighing ≤ 150 lbs (68 kg) | ISTA 1A | Fixed Displacement Vibration Test: Vibration Test System with a 1 in (25 mm) peak-to-peak, fixed or controlled displacement complying with Method A1 or A2 of the apparatus section of ASTM D 999. Fixed Displacement Vibration Test: Vibration test using the 1-inch fixed displacement method, peak-to-peak, at a predetermined frequency for the ISTA 1A and 1B procedures. |
| ISTA 1C | Similar to 1A | |
| ISTA 1G | / | |
| Packaged Products Weighing > 150 lbs (68 kg) | ISTA 1B | Similar to 1A |
| ISTA 1D | Similar to 1A | |
| ISTA 1H | / | |
| Unitized Loads (Palletized) | ISTA 1E | Vertical Linear Fixed Displacement: Vibration Test System with a 1 in (25 mm) peak-to-peak, fixed or controlled displacement complying with Method A1 or A2 of the apparatus section of ASTM D 999. |
| Classification | Standards | Testing Standards |
| Packaged Products Weighing ≤ 150 lbs (68 kg) | ISTA 2A | Vertical Linear Fixed Displacement: Vibration Test System with a 1 in (25 mm) peak-to-peak, fixed or controlled displacement complying with Method A1 or A2 of the apparatus section of ASTM D 999. |
| Packaged Products Weighing > 150 lbs (68 kg) | ISTA 2B | Vertical Linear Fixed Displacement: Vibration Test System with a 1 in (25 mm) peak-to-peak, fixed or controlled displacement complying with Method A1 or A2 of the apparatus section of ASTM D 999. |
| Furniture Packages | ISTA 2C | / |
| ISTA | Classification | Standards | Testing Standards |
| 6-FEDEX | ≤ 150 lb (68 kg) | 6-FEDEX-A | Rotary Vibration Test Procedures We perform the rotary vibration test on a mechanical rotary vibration machine. The transport simulation vibration testing machine will vibrate at 1.0″ total displacement. Packages will be subjected to a total of 14,200 vibratory impacts |
| > 150 lb (68 kg) | 6-FEDEX-B | Rotary Vibration Test Procedures We perform the rotary vibration test on a mechanical rotary vibration machine. The machine will vibrate at 1.0″ total displacement. Packages will be subjected to a total of 14,200 vibratory impacts |
EXPERT FAQ ON ISTA TESTING PROTOCOLS
ISTA 3A simulates the complex environment of parcel delivery systems (like UPS/FedEx). It combines vibration, drop, and atmospheric tests, making it the benchmark for brands selling on Amazon and eBay.
Yes. Our drop test machines come with specialized Hazard Blocks and guided-drop accessories to meet the specific requirements of Test Block 12 and 13 in the ISTA 3A procedure.
Fixed Displacement (ISTA 1 Series) is a basic repetitive shock, while Random Vibration (ISTA 2/3/6 Series) simulates the actual spectrum of a moving truck or airplane. CME’s shakers provide high-precision Grms control for both.
| Classification | Standards | Testing Standards |
| Packaged Products Weighing ≤ 150 lbs (68 kg) | ISTA 1A | Impact Velocity varies with packaged-product weight |
| ISTA 1C | Similar to 1A | |
| ISTA 1G | Similar to 1A | |
| Packaged Products Weighing > 150 lbs (68 kg) | ISTA 1B | Incline impact: 69 in (1.7 m) per second impact velocity |
| ISTA 1D | Similar to 1B | |
| ISTA 1H | Similar to 1B | |
| Unitized Loads (Palletized) | ISTA 1E | Similar to 1B |
| Classification | Standards | Testing Standards |
| Packaged Products Weighing ≤ 150 lbs (68 kg) | ISTA 2A | An incline impact test using a machine that is able to simulate these kinds of impacts as per the ASTM D880 standard. |
| Packaged Products Weighing > 150 lbs (68 kg) | ISTA 2B | Similar to 1A |
| Furniture Packages | ISTA 2C | Exception One and Two impact Velocity varies with incline-Impact (Conbur) packaged-product weight |
| Classification | Standards | Testing Standards |
| Packaged Products Weighing ≤ 150 lbs (70 kg) | ISTA 3A | / |
| Packaged Products Weighing ≤ 200 lbs (91 kg) | ISTA 3B | lncline or Horizontal impact, optional Free-Fall Drop: 48 in/sec (4 ft/sec) (1.2 m/sec) impacts or 3 in.(76 mm) drops |
| Unitized Loads (Palletized) | ISTA 3E | Incline impact: 69 in (1.7 m) per second impact velocity |
| Packaged Products Weighing ≤ 100 Ib (45kg) | ISTA 3F | / |
| Bulk | ISTA 3H | / |
| European Retail Supply Chain | ISTA 3K | / |
| ISTA Series | Classification | Standards | Testing Standards |
| 6-FEDEX | ≤ 150 lb (68 kg) | 6-FEDEX-A | / |
| > 150 lb (68 kg) | 6-FEDEX-B | Side Impact Test Procedures We perform the side impact test on an incline impact tester equipped with a velocity meter. | |
| 6-AMAZON COM-SIOC | ≤ 50 lb ( 23 kg ) & Girth up to 165 ( 4.19 m) | Type A | / |
| Type D | / | ||
| 50 Ib ( 23 kg ) to Less than 100 lb ( 45 kg) | Type B | / | |
| 100 b(45 kg)or Greater | Type C | lncline or Horizontal lmpact:48 in/sec (4 ft/sec) (1.2 m/sec) impact velocity or velocity change | |
| Type E | similar to Type C | ||
| Other | Type F | similar to Type C | |
| 6-AMAZON COM-OBO | / | 6-AMAZON COM-OBO | / |
| 6-SAMS | Non-perishable | Type A | Type A: lncline or Horizontal lmpact:48 in/sec (4 ft/sec) (1.2 m/sec) impact velocity or velocity change |
| Type B | |||
| Type C | |||
| Perishable | Type D | / |
EXPERT FAQ ON ISTA TESTING PROTOCOLS
ISTA 3A simulates the complex environment of parcel delivery systems (like UPS/FedEx). It combines vibration, drop, and atmospheric tests, making it the benchmark for brands selling on Amazon and eBay.
Yes. Our drop test machines come with specialized Hazard Blocks and guided-drop accessories to meet the specific requirements of Test Block 12 and 13 in the ISTA 3A procedure.
Fixed Displacement (ISTA 1 Series) is a basic repetitive shock, while Random Vibration (ISTA 2/3/6 Series) simulates the actual spectrum of a moving truck or airplane. CME’s shakers provide high-precision Grms control for both.
