Resource Guide
Industry Standards
A short reference to the tests and standards most often mentioned when buying corrugated packaging. Requirements change, so check the current version of any standard or regulation that applies to your shipments.
ASTM D4169: Distribution Testing
ASTM D4169 is a standard practice from ASTM International for performance testing of shipping containers and systems. It defines test sequences, called distribution cycles, that simulate the handling, vibration, stacking, and climate hazards a package meets in different kinds of distribution, at several levels of severity.
ISTA Test Protocols
The International Safe Transit Association publishes package testing procedures. Some retailers and carriers ask vendors for a specific ISTA test; check their current requirements.
ISTA 1 Series
ISTA 2 Series
ISTA 3 Series
TAPPI Test Methods
TAPPI publishes standard methods for testing paper and board.
| Method | Test | What It Measures |
|---|---|---|
| T 804 | Compression test of fiberboard containers | Force needed to crush a finished box |
| T 810 | Bursting strength of corrugated board | Pressure needed to rupture the board face |
| T 811 | Edgewise compressive strength (ECT) | Edge crush strength of the board |
FEFCO Box Style Codes
FEFCO publishes an international code system for corrugated box styles, which helps avoid ambiguity when ordering.
| Code | Style | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 0201 | Regular slotted container (RSC) | All flaps the same length; outer flaps meet in the center |
| 0202 | Overlap slotted container | Outer flaps overlap |
| 0203 | Full overlap slotted container | Outer flaps overlap fully |
| 0204 | Center special slotted container | Inner and outer flaps meet in the center |
| 03xx | Telescope types | Separate lid and base |
| 04xx | Folder types | Boxes folded from one piece, such as mailers and wraps |
ISPM 15: Wood Packaging
ISPM 15 is an international phytosanitary standard for wood packaging material, such as pallets and crates, in international trade. Heat treatment under the standard requires the wood core to reach 56 °C for at least 30 minutes, and treated wood carries an official mark.
The standard covers solid wood packaging; packaging made wholly of processed material such as corrugated board is outside its scope. Wooden pallets under boxes in international shipments may still need to comply. Check current regulations for the destination country.
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