ISTA 7E- Testing Standard for Thermal Transport Packaging Used in Parcel Delivery System Shipment
ISTA 7E evaluates thermal packaging used in parcel delivery system shipments. As an ISTA and ISO 17025 certified lab, we realize the importance of thermal package testing. Meeting the ISTA 7E requirements can be difficult. We understand the challenges and guide companies through the process.
Keystone Package Testing partners with customers to achieve package compliance. We provide comprehensive reports shortly after the completion of the testing. Our proven process helps avoid product launch delays. When packages do not meet the requirements, we assist with finding solutions. Most importantly, Keystone provides the peace of mind that all of your needs will be met.
Request a quote to learn why we are one of the fastest-growing package test labs in the country. Have a question about parcel delivery package testing? Contact us and we will determine the best course of action.
Summary of ISTA 7E Transit Laboratory Compliance Testing
ISTA 7E is a new version of the 7-Series tests that evaluates the effects of external temperature exposures of individually packaged products shipped through a parcel delivery system. When used as a stand-alone standard, it is useful for general testing and qualification of insulated shipping containers.
Testing to ISTA 7E standards is recommended to comply with Federal Drug Administration (FDA) and Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER) guidelines. It also validates insulated shipping container thermal performance. The qualification process benefits the end-user of the product and the product supplier. With thermal packaging, the product can be sure to have the maximum shelf life possible. Thus, the supply chain is streamlined which results in lower costs, making the product all around more affordable.
ISTA 7E Temperature Laboratory Testing Procedures
Sampling
To begin testing for ISTA 7E, the test lab will need to obtain the appropriate number of samples for testing. The package and product should be unused to achieve the best test results that are an accurate representation of shipping conditions on the sample. If the actual package and product are not available, substitutes can be used, they must be as close to the actual sample as possible.
Procedures
To measure performance, ISTA guidelines will be used to establish criteria. The package will be placed in conditioning chambers and adjusted to the desired temperature and humidity that is specified. The package will be observed for any damage, degradation, or indicators of failure- damage to the product or package.
During testing, the product and package are considered one unit. ISTA recommends that three samples be tested, using a new sample each time for accurate results. The refrigerant or temperature stabilizer should be the actual one used during production. To ensure perfect test samples, they should be shipped in a reinforced box or assembled at the laboratory. The test specimen will undergo temperature conditioning.
Test Results
At the conclusion of testing, Keystone will write a comprehensive report that outlines the following:
- Temperature
- Humidity variances
- Product measurements: size, weight, etc.
- Test results
Significance of ISTA 7E Temperature Validation Testing
Product damage caused by temperature fluctuations during transit can lead to significant financial losses for manufacturers, suppliers, and retailers. Temperature-related incidents often result in product spoilage, diminished shelf life, or even complete product loss. ISTA 7e temperature testing allows manufacturers to identify vulnerabilities in their packaging systems and make necessary improvements to ensure product integrity. By preventing temperature-induced damage, businesses can minimize financial losses associated with product waste and customer returns.
Additionally, ISTA 7E is one of the necessary steps in acquiring the ISTA Thermal Transport Certification Mark. The mark is a registered certification mark that can only be printed on certified packages, used by a license agreement, and by an ISTA member. In order to maintain certification, retesting must be done whenever there is a change to the manufacturing process or package itself.
Expert ISTA 7E Laboratory Integrity Package Testing
Keystone Package Testing has many conditioning chambers of various sizes. We are able to test multiple specimens at once which results in faster turnaround times. We can accommodate almost any package and have experience testing packaging for different environmental conditions.
Our lab technicians are knowledgeable and experienced in ISTA testing guidelines. They work with companies to ensure they are in compliance with regulations. Our full-time report writers provide reports that are accepted globally. To begin the ISTA 7E testing process, just request a quote or call us at (724) 657-9940.
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.