ISTAtestit

ISTAtestit are standardized packaging performance tests developed by the International Safe Transit Association (ISTA). They evaluate how packaging and its contents withstand typical distribution conditions and help determine whether a packaging solution can protect items during transport and handling.

The tests simulate distribution environments and may include mechanical challenges such as drops, shocks, vibrations, and stacking, as well as climatic factors like temperature and humidity. Depending on the protocol, packages may be conditioned before testing and inspected afterward for damage. ISTA offers protocol families for different configurations, from single-parcel consumer packaging to multi-pack shipments; each protocol specifies the test sequence, duration, equipment, and acceptance criteria.

Tests are conducted in accredited laboratories following ISTA procedures, and results determine packaging performance and suitability for target requirements. Many manufacturers use ISTAtestit to validate designs, qualify suppliers, and support distribution claims; certification may be required by retailers or logistics providers.

ISTAtestit represent a voluntary framework; they are not governmental regulations. They provide a common basis for comparison but have limitations: they model conditions, not all real-world scenarios, and outcomes depend on protocol choice and test setup. ISTA, a nonprofit organization, maintains the protocol suite and provides guidance and certification programs for laboratories and manufacturers.