ASTM D7386 Single Parcel Delivery Systems
ASTM D7386 evaluates hazards that the unit encounters throughout the delivery. As an ISTA and ISO 17025 certified lab, we realize the importance of single parcel performance testing of packages. Meeting the ASTM D7386 requirements can be difficult. We understand the challenges and guide companies through the process.
Keystone Package Testing provides comprehensive reports shortly after completion of the testing. Our proven process helps avoid product launch delays. We partner with customers to achieve package compliance. Lastly, when packages do not meet the requirements, Keystone’s engineers assist with finding solutions.
Request a quote to see why so many companies partner with Keystone Package Testing. Have a question about ASTM D7386 package testing? Contact us and we will determine the best course of action.
Summary of ASTM Single Parcel Delivery Information
The ASTM D7386 test is intended for shipping units weighing less than or equal to 150 lbs. The test will be conducted in the order of hazards that are anticipated throughout distribution. The test methods used to simulate the shipping environment are representative of those conditions in actual distribution. The test should be performed on a container throughout the ordered test sequence.
Scope of ASTM D7386 Package Testing
For performance testing, the unit must remain unopened until testing is complete. However, if the tests are conducted for design development purposes, it can be beneficial to open the container at various points to evaluate the condition of its contents.
The test specimen should be prepared in accordance with the standards outlined by ASTM D7386. The test specimens are representative samples of complete shipping units. Equally important, it is recommended that samples include the actual contents used in the field.
If the test specimen is shipped to the test laboratory rather than assembled on-site, there can not be any damage prior to the beginning of testing.
ASTM D7386 integrity test objectives will determine how many replications are necessary. However, replicating the test is suggested. This will ultimately ensure more accurate results. Prior to testing, the test specimen is examined and labeled.
Labeling is determined by the type of container: small containers bagged for transport by carrier, sacks, bags, rectangular containers, and cylindrical containers. The test specimen should be conditioned or preconditioned prior to testing if necessary.
Significance of ASTM D7386 Single Parcel Delivery Systems Testing
The organization conducting the test will establish acceptance criteria prior to testing. When choosing criteria, they should consider the required condition of the package upon arrival at the shipping destination.
Criteria can range from pass-fail judgment to quantitative scoring or analysis. The form and content of acceptance criteria can vary widely depending on the circumstances. A common example of acceptance criteria is:
Criterion 1 – Product is damage-free
Criterion 2 – Package is intact
Criterion 3 – Both criteria 1 and 2
Below is the outlined ASTM D7386 standard test procedure. In this case, the procedure follows this sequence:
- Describe and define the package test samples in terms of size, weight, and form of construction.
- Determine acceptance criteria- develop the acceptance criteria with the end of the distribution in mind.
- Write test plan- use the sequence of the table below to write a test plan.
- Select samples for test.
- Condition samples.
- Perform tests (refer to the ASTM D7386 standard).
- Evaluate results- determine if the container has met the acceptance criteria.
- Document test results- report each step of the test.
- Monitor shipments- if possible, monitor shipments to ensure the accuracy of laboratory test results compared to the actual distribution system.
Hazard Elements and Test Schedules
| Schedule | Hazard Element | Test |
| A | Handling- manual and automated | Drop, impact |
| D | Vibration | Vibration and Vibration under load |
| I | Impact, Stability | Bridge impact |
| J | Impact, Stability | Hazard impact |
| K | Low Pressure | High Altitude |
| L | Impacts, punctures | Concentrated Impacts |
| M | Impacts | Tip-over impacts |
| N | Drops | Rotational Edge Drops |
Expert Laboratory ASTM Single Parcel Package Testing
In addition to ASTM D7386 integrity transportation testing, Keystone has a full scope of expertise including temperature validation, cold chain, and accelerated aging. Keystone also has a full lab of test equipment which permits us to provide short lead times on scheduling. We can accommodate flexible and rigid packages of all sizes, including large pallets.
Request a quote to learn first hand why so many companies partner with Keystone to achieve their parcel delivery testing needs.
For more referenced ASTM standards and similar testing, please follow the links below:
- ASTM D951 Test Method for Water Resistance of Shipping Containers by Spray Method
- ASTM D996 Terminology of Packaging and Distribution Environments
- ASTM D4332 Practice for Conditioning Containers, Packages, or Packaging Components for Testing
- ASTM D5265 Bridge Impact Testing
- ASTM D5487 Test Method for Simulated Drop of Loaded Containers by Shock Machines
- ASTM D6179 Test Methods for Rough Handling of Unitized Loads and Large Shipping Cases and Crates
- ASTM D6344 Test Method for Concentrated Impacts to Transport Packages
- ASTM D6653 Test Methods for Determining the Effects of High Altitude on Packaging Systems by Vacuum Method
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.