Conditioning of Packages for Ship Distribution Testing

What is Package Conditioning?

Package conditioning simulates the environmental conditions that a container, package, or packaging component may encounter throughout the distribution cycle. In most cases, conditioning occurs before transit simulation testing to ensure the package is evaluated under realistic conditions.

These conditioning profiles are based on established industry practices or selected to represent specific environments within a product’s distribution life cycle.

As an ISTA and ISO/IEC 17025-certified laboratory, Keystone Package Testing understands the importance of proper package conditioning and integrity testing. We help companies navigate complex regulatory requirements and conditioning protocols while ensuring accurate, reliable test results.

Request a quote today to learn why so many companies trust Keystone Package Testing for their package conditioning and compliance testing needs.

Why is Conditioning a Package Important?

Packaging materials experience physical property changes as temperature and relative humidity fluctuate. Therefore, packages are conditioned in a controlled environment before testing. This process creates consistent conditions and improves the repeatability of transit simulation tests.

ASTM D4332 and ISO 2233 provide standardized procedures for conditioning containers, packages, and packaging components before testing. By following these standards, laboratories produce consistent, reproducible results. As a result, companies can accurately compare test data and make reliable decisions about package performance.

In addition, many packaging materials are highly sensitive to temperature and humidity. Conditioning allows these materials to reach equilibrium with the test environment before testing begins. Consequently, transient environmental effects are minimized, and the package’s true performance can be evaluated more accurately.

Finally, product and packaging damage during distribution often leads to costly replacements, returns, and customer complaints. Implementing the appropriate conditioning and testing protocols helps reduce these risks. In turn, companies improve package reliability, meet customer expectations, and maintain a competitive advantage in today’s marketplace.

Keystone Package Testing’s Conditioning Equipment and Capabilities

First, a chamber is used as a workspace to maintain particular environmental conditions and appropriately record those conditions.

Additionally, a hygrometer is used to indicate the relative humidity. This apparatus should be accurate to ± 2% humidity. Any measuring device such as a thermometer is used to provide accurate temperature readings within 0.1 °C.

Our new state-of-the-art package testing laboratory includes environmental chambers up to 1,300 cu. ft, shakers up to 12 kips, and multiple compression/tensile testers. We offer complete pack-out services and engineering guidance. From test plan development to the writing of the report, our team is in constant communication.

ASTM D4332: Conditioning Containers, Packages, or Packaging Components

ASTM D4332 subjects containers, packages, or packaging components for at least 72 hours, or until equilibrium is reached. The unit under testing is supported so that all surfaces have free access to the conditioning atmosphere.

Heavier packages may be placed on a pallet or device that should allow for as much exposure to the bottom as possible.

Following the ASTM D4332 package conditioning process, a report is written with the following information. This list is not intended to be all-inclusive.

Temperature, relative humidity, and time of exposure
Preconditioning atmosphere and time of exposure
Statement of compliance with this procedure
Variations from this procedure

ISO 2233: Complete, Filled Transport Packages – Conditioning for Testing

The temperature and relative humidity are selected. These must be appropriate to the transport and storage of the specimen to be tested.

The specimen is then placed in the chamber and exposed to the specified conditions for a minimum period of 4, 8, 16, 24, 48, or 72 hours, or from 1 to 4 weeks. The specimen under testing must have free access to the top, sides, and at least 75% of the base.

Information is then compiled into a report. This list is not intended to be all-inclusive.

Reference to this standard
The details of any pre-drying
The conditions and time used for conditioning
The temperature and relative humidity of the test area
Any deviation from the standard

Expert Regulatory Flexible Package Compliance Testing Laboratory

Keystone Package Testing creates an accurate test plan to eliminate expensive over-testing. In addition to the conditioning of packages, our test facility has an extensive scope of expertise including impact, sterile barrier, and vibration integrity testing.

When packages do not meet the requirements, we assist with finding solutions. Keystone has a reputation for helping customers achieve their package certifications.

Ready to get started? We are. Request a quote to find out first hand about our competitive pricing, timely process, and outstanding reputation. If you have any questions regarding package integrity or transit compliance testing, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Interested in the EMC/EMI, climatic, dynamic, shielding effectiveness, or IP Code testing of a product? Follow the corresponding links or www.keystonecompliance.com for more information.

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