ASTM D5276 Drop Test of Loaded Container
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Summary of Loaded Containers Drop Testing Information
ASTM D5276 outlines procedures for free-fall drop testing of loaded boxes, cylindrical containers, bags, sacks, and pouches. The standard applies to containers weighing less than 110 lb (50 kg). Additionally, this method satisfies certain ISO testing requirements.
Furthermore, ASTM D5276 evaluates how well a container protects its contents during free-fall impacts. You can also use this test to compare package designs and overall container performance.
Additionally, manufacturers can compare different package designs to identify the best protective solution. The test also helps identify container failures and assess damage to the contents. As a result, you can improve package performance before products enter distribution.
Scope of the ASTM D5276 Standard Test Method for Drop Testing
ASTM D5276 Free Fall Drop Laboratory Testing Procedures
Conditioning
The test specimen should be conditioned prior to beginning the ASTM D5276 test. The test specimen and number of samples should allow for an adequate representation of a performance in the field. ASTM recommends that in the absence of a sampling plan, at least three samples should be tested.
Testing Program
Whether testing for the ability of the container to withstand rough handling or the protective capability of the container to safely transport its contents, it is recommended that the container is packed with the actual contents that it will be transporting. It is also acceptable to pack the container with simulated contents when testing for handling.
Regardless of the contents, the container must be closed or sealed in the same manner that it would be for shipping. This is done well in advance of the test so that the container will reach its normal shipping conditions before testing.
To conduct the ASTM D5276 free-fall drop test, the containers must be marked according to their faces or positions. The test specimen will then be positioned on the drop apparatus according to the type of drop (flat edge, edge drop, etc.) that will be tested.
Test Report
To accurately measure the height of the drop for purposes of ASTM D5276, measure from the bottom surface, edge, or corner, to the impact surface. The testing laboratory will record measurements and drop data and complete a report following the guidelines outlined in the ASTM D5276 standard.
Expert ASTM D5276 Free Fall Drop Integrity Testing
Not only can Keystone provide ASTM d5276 drop test of loaded containers by free fall, Keystone Package Testing can also 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. In addition to ASTM D5276 free fall testing, Keystone has a full scope of expertise including drop, sterile barrier, and high impact shock.
Our package testing engineers are experienced and have a thorough knowledge of industry standards. They are prepared to guide you through the transit testing process. Let’s get started! Request a quote or contact us at (724) 657-9940.
For more referenced ASTM standards and similar testing, please follow the links below:
- ASTM D880 Test Method for Impact Testing for Shipping Containers and Systems
- ASTM D996 Terminology of Packaging and Distribution Environments
- ASTM D4169 Performance Testing of Shipping Containers and Systems
- ASTM D4332 Practice for Conditioning Containers, Packages, or Packaging Components for Testing
- ASTM D6179 Test Methods for Rough Handling of Unitized Loads and Large Shipping Cases and Crates
- ASTM E122 Practice for Calculating Sample Size to Estimate, With Specified Precision, the Average for a Characteristic of a Lot or Process
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.

ASTM D5276 Drop Test of Loaded Container