What types of packages are tested under ISTA 3A?

There are four types of packages that can be tested using ISTA 3A. This testing standard can accommodate small, flat, elongated, and standard packages. These package varieties are classified under the following criteria:

• Small packages: Weight is less than 10 pounds, volume is less than 800 cubic inches, and the longest side is 14 inches or shorter.
• Flat packages: Shortest side is 8 inches or less, the next longest side is 4 times larger than the shortest side, and volume is 800 cubic inches or more.
• Elongated packages: Longest side of the package is 36 inches or more and the package’s other dimensions are equivalent to 20% or less of the longest side.
• Standard packages: Any package weighing 150 pounds or less that doesn’t meet the criteria outlined for the prior 3 package types.

Do different types of packages require different tests for ISTA 3A certification?

Yes, there are two distinct ISTA 3A test procedures and the one used depends on the type of package being tested. For standard, elongated, and flat packages, the following series of tests will be completed in this order:

1. Atmospheric preconditioning
2. Atmospheric conditioning (optional)
3. Drop testing
4. Random vibration testing with and without load
5. Random vibration testing under low pressure (optional)
6. Drop testing
7. Rotational edge drop test
8. Full rotational flat drop test
9. Concentrated impact
10. Bridge impact
11. Leak test

Additionally, when testing small packages, the ISTA 3A test procedure is as follows:

1. Atmospheric preconditioning
2. Atmospheric conditioning (optional)
3. Drop testing
4. Random vibration testing with and without load
5. Random vibration testing under low pressure
6. Drop testing
7. Leak test

What are the benefits of ISTA 3A procedures?

By conducting testing according to the ISTA 3A standard, manufacturers can gain essential insights into how their product packaging system performs under common transit conditions. The benefits of conducting an ISTA 3A test include:

• Objective analysis of packaging system performance
• Reduction in product damage and loss
• Higher customer satisfaction
• Improved levels of safety

If you’re in need of ISTA 3A testing for your company’s products, contact Westpak. We can conduct accurate ISTA 3A packaging tests that provide you with important data. With the results from the testing, you can effectively protect your product while in transit and know with confidence that the package will protect the product a vast majority of the time.