ISTA Package Testing Services
Protect your products and reduce damage costs with comprehensive ISTA package testing. Element’s ISTA-approved laboratories deliver custom testing solutions that simulate real-world shipping conditions, helping you ensure package integrity across global distribution networks while maintaining compliance with industry standards. With testing for all ISTA series, including ISTA 6-Amazon.com, expert guidance and cutting-edge facilities, we ensure accurate and reliable results for all your packaging needs.
What is ISTA Package Testing at Element?
ISTA (International Safe Transit Association) Package Testing is the industry's most trusted method for evaluating packaging performance under simulated shipping and handling conditions. This includes drop, vibration, compression, and climate simulations to ensure safe product delivery.
At Element, our ISTA testing laboratories provide end-to-end ISTA testing solutions, covering all ISTA test series, including ISTA 6-Amazon.com. Our accredited laboratories help manufacturers, retailers, and suppliers across multiple industries, from consumer goods to medical devices, helping you validate your packaging designs before they enter the distribution chain. Our ISTA-approved status enables member customers to use the prestigious ISTA Transit Tested Certification Mark, demonstrating your commitment to quality.
What can Element Offer You for ISTA Testing?
Key Tests Offered
Key Tests Offered
Element can offer the following testing solutions:
- Drop & Free Fall Simulation – Evaluates the impact resilience of packaged goods.
- Vibration & Shock Testing – Simulates transit conditions for trucks, planes, and rail.
- Compression & Load Testing – Measures structural integrity under stacked weight.
- Climate & Humidity Testing – Assesses performance in extreme temperatures and moisture levels.
- ISTA 6-Amazon.com Testing – Ensures compliance with overboxing and SIOC packaging requirements.
Methods And Solutions Offered
Methods And Solutions Offered
- Full ISTA series testing (1A-6A)
- Failure analysis and performance improvements
- Customized distribution simulations
- Certification for retail and e-commerce compliance
- APASS certification for Amazon sellers
Cutting-Edge Equipment We Use
Cutting-Edge Equipment We Use
- Advanced drop, impact, and vibration testing platforms
- Temperature & humidity-controlled chambers
- Compression & load testing stations
- Data acquisition & monitoring systems
- Custom testing fixtures for specialized products
Which Labs Offer This Service
Which Labs Offer This Service
- Multiple ISTA-certified locations in North America and Europe
- Specialized ISTA 6-Amazon.com testing facilities in the Western U.S.
Standards we test to and the products we test
- ASTM International: ASTM D3228, ASTM D4169, ASTM D6551, ASTM F1980, ASTM D7386
- Federal Standard: FED-STD-101C
- ISTA Standards: 1A-1H, 2A-2D, 3A-3G, 4AB, 6AM (Amazon), 6FX (FedEx), 6SC (Sam's Club), 7D
- ISO Standards – ISO 4180, ISO 2233
- Retail & E-Commerce Requirements – Amazon APASS, Walmart, FedEx, UPS packaging certifications
Consumer Goods
- Electronics
- home appliances
- furniture
- toys
Industrial & Medical Equipment
- machinery
- medical devices
- lab equipment
E-commerce Packaging
- SIOC
- over-boxing
- retail-ready packaging
Food & Beverage Containers
- bottles
- cans
- Pouches
- cartons
Custom & Speciality Packaging
- fragile goods
- perishable items
- bulk shipments
Your Challenges, Our Solutions
Reducing Product Damage
Meeting Compliance & Retailer Requirements
Optimizing Packaging for Cost & Efficiency
Custom Testing for Unique Products
Why Choose Element
Complete ISTA series coverage
APASS-Certified for Amazon Testing
Multiple Global Locations
Decades of Packaging Expertise
Frequently asked questions
What is ISTA 6-Amazon.com Testing?
ISTA 6-Amazon.com testing ensures that e-commerce packaging meets Amazon’s compliance standards for over-boxing and Ships in Own Container (SIOC). This helps sellers reduce shipping damages and avoid costly chargebacks.
How do I know which ISTA test my packaging needs?
Each ISTA test evaluates different conditions, from basic drop tests (ISTA 1A) to advanced simulations (ISTA 6). Selection also depends on your package weight (under/over 150 lbs), delivery method (parcel/freight), and whether items are standalone or unitized. Our experts can assess your packaging and recommend the right test based on your product’s shipping route and retailer requirements.
How long does ISTA testing take?
Testing timelines vary depending on the test series and complexity. Most standard ISTA tests can be completed within a few days, while custom simulations may take longer. Contact us for specific lead times.
Can you customize ISTA testing for my unique shipping environment?
Yes! Our labs offer tailored testing solutions to simulate unique distribution channels, including custom vibration patterns, extreme climate conditions, and multi-leg transit routes.
What's the difference between ISTA series?
ISTA series range from basic strength testing (Series 1) to comprehensive simulations (Series 3), enhanced custom testing (Series 4), member-specific requirements (Series 6), and development testing (Series 7), allowing us to match your exact needs.
Is ISTA testing different to normal package testing?
Yes, ISTA testing is different from "normal" package testing because ISTA provides a standardized set of tests that simulate real-world shipping conditions, including drops, vibrations, and compression, to evaluate a package's ability to withstand the rigors of the supply chain, while normal package testing might focus on simpler assessments like seal integrity or basic strength, often without simulating actual transit hazards.
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