ISTA 1E: Package Integrity Testing of Unitized Loads
ISTA 1E package testing evaluates unitized loads in transit. As an ISTA and ISO 17025 certified lab, we realize the importance of ISTA 1E unitized load package testing. Meeting the ISTA 1E requirements can be difficult. We understand the challenges and guide companies through the process.
Keystone Package Testing partners with customers to achieve package compliance. When packages do not meet the requirements, we assist with finding solutions. Keystone takes a consultative approach throughout the entire test program. Our accurate test reports are delivered quickly while offering competitive pricing and volume discounts.
Request a quote to learn why we are one of the fastest-growing package test labs in the country. Contact us to receive more information on ISTA 1E unitized load package testing.
Summary of ISTA 1E Regulatory Standard Transportation Testing
The ISTA 1 series of tests challenge the capability of a package and product to withstand transportation hazards.
More specifically, ISTA Procedure 1E is the requirement for testing unitized loads of the same product. This includes the testing of unitized loads, made up of either single or multiple products or packages of the same product such as single non-packaged machine banded to a pallet. This could include a corrugated tray, cap, or tube. Another example would be a shrink-wrapped or stretch-wrapped pallet of individual packages.
ISTA 1E testing is required by a number of retailers and distributors. This package integrity test procedure simulates the hazards experienced by pallets in the supply chain. The information gained can be insightful in determining how many units can safely be placed on a pallet. This test procedure can save significant money by reducing future product damage and product returns.
ISTA 1E Integrity Laboratory Testing Procedures
ISTA 1E is often used as the transit testing procedure for analyzing bulk shipments. This package test standard requires products to go through conditioning, vibration, and shock.
The conditioning is for temperature and humidity. The goal is to test the package at ambient conditions and the requirement is 12 hours.
The vibration testing can be either vertical linear fixed displacement or random.
The shock includes horizontal impact, rotational edge drops, and incline impact. These are all alternative shock methods. The products only need to be tested to one of these.
It is important to note that rotary motion vibration is not acceptable. The fixed displacement vibration testing must be vertical linear motion.
The chart below outlines the test sequence for ISTA 1E:
| Sequence # | Test Category | Test Type | For ISTA Certification |
| 1 | Atmospheric Conditioning | Temperature and Humidity | Required |
| 2 | Vibration | Vertical Linear Fixed Displacement | Required |
| Alternative Random | |||
| 3 | Shock | Incline (Conbur) | Required |
| Alternative Horizontal Impact | |||
| 4 | Shock | Rotational Edge Drop | Required |
ISTA 1E Unitized Load Package Testing Laboratory
If you are shipping pallets, you need to partner with Keystone Package Testing. Our expertise streamlines the shipping testing process. We have multiple shakers, which means short lead times on scheduling. We have dedicated report writers that provide accurate and concise reports in a timely manner. Lastly, our pricing is affordable and we are ISTA-accredited.
Contact us to learn why so many companies work with us for their packaging test needs.
Other ISTA Standards:
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.