Transport simulation: What types of stress tests are there for packaging?
Packaging must reliably protect products from static, dynamic and climatic stresses during transport, handling and storage. Whether parcel delivery, general cargo or exports: packaging tests – for example, in the form of transport tests – help to assess transport safety, identify weak points and prevent damage in transit.
Depending on the requirements, we simulate real-world transport stresses and test packaging in accordance with recognised standards such as ASTM, ISTA, DIN, EN and ISO. The tests carried out include, amongst others, impact and drop tests, vibration tests, climatic tests and material tests. This allows typical stresses to be realistically simulated and demonstrates that the packaging and the contents can withstand the expected stresses. For high-value products, such tests can also form an important basis for insurance cover.
Dynamic tests: Transport simulation tests in our test laboratory
Dynamic stresses are simulated using drop, vibration and impact tests. These tests assess whether the packaging and the contents can withstand the simulated stresses without the contents being damaged. Where required, we test complete packaging systems, individual packaging materials and components, or develop an optimised packaging proposal based on the test results. Tests carried out include, for example:
- Compression and stacking pressure tests
- Vibration tests
- Vertical and horizontal impact tests
- Drop tests
Palettised load undergoing transport testing
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Shipping box in a drop test
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Climate test
Temperature fluctuations can cause moisture to form inside the packaging. Depending on the material of the outer packaging, water vapour may also penetrate the packaging from the outside. This could damage moisture-sensitive goods or bare metals. This is particularly relevant for exports and overseas shipments. The packaging must be designed to prevent damage such as corrosion, mould or oxidation. Packaging tests are therefore particularly recommended, especially for international shipments involving longer transit times, different climate zones and multiple handling points.
The climatic change test DIN EN IEC 60068-2-30 simulates climatic stresses. We can carry out this test in our climatic chambers with a volume of up to 16 m³.
Chemical analyses
Components of packaging materials, or contaminants resulting from processing residues, can lead to undesirable changes in the packaged products – such as discolouration or corrosion. Through chemical analyses, we identify contaminants and their causes within the production process and can provide recommendations on how to prevent them.
Material testing
In addition to stress tests, we also carry out all standard material tests. This enables us to determine and evaluate key properties of packaging materials such as films, paper and cardboard.
Films
- Thickness – Determination of film thickness (DIN ISO 4593:2019-06)
- Dart Drop test for puncture resistance (ASTM D 1709/A)
- Tensile strength, tear strength and elongation (DIN EN ISO 527–3/2)
Paper & Cardboard
- Basis weight (DIN EN 536)
- Thickness of solid board – Determination of material thickness (ISO 3034)
- Burst test – Testing resistance to compressive stress
A packaging test determines whether the packaging and the goods it contains can withstand the expected stresses of transport. This enables weak points to be identified at an early stage, packaging to be optimised in a targeted manner, and transport damage, complaints and associated costs to be reduced.
Transport tests are particularly useful prior to the market launch of new products or packaging, when product or packaging changes are made, for export, or where goods are of high value.
In principle, packaging for almost any product can be tested – from industrial goods and mechanical engineering components through to electronics and sensitive or high-value products. Among other things, we test shipping cartons, export packaging, transport crates, pallets and complete load units.
Packaging tests help to identify risks of breakage, deformation, goods shifting, moisture damage or corrosion at an early stage. The effects of impacts and vibrations can also be assessed, and the packaging optimised accordingly.
Depending on the requirements, testing is carried out in accordance with recognised national and international standards such as ASTM, ISTA, DIN, EN or ISO.
First, the test requirements are defined in consultation with you. The packaging test is then carried out in accordance with the agreed or required standard, using the prescribed test sequence. The results are documented and summarised in a test report. Once the test has been completed, you will receive detailed documentation of the tests carried out and the results. On request, we can also assist you with optimising your packaging.
Depending on the scope of the test and the number of packages to be tested, a packaging test usually takes between 3 and 5 working days. This also includes the necessary conditioning of the test samples to the standard climate conditions. We will be happy to provide you with the current lead time for a test appointment on request.
The costs depend on the scope of the test, the packaging and the required test method. We would be happy to provide you with a tailored quote.
