ASTM D4169-23
(Practice)Standard Practice for Performance Testing of Shipping Containers and Systems
Standard Practice for Performance Testing of Shipping Containers and Systems
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This practice provides a guide for the evaluation of shipping units in accordance with a uniform system, using established test methods at levels representative of those occurring in actual distribution. The recommended test levels are based on available information on the shipping and handling environment, and current industry/government practice and experience (1-13).6 The tests should be performed sequentially on the same containers in the order given. For use as a performance test, this practice requires that the shipping unit tested remain unopened until the sequence of tests are completed. If used for other purposes, such as package development, it may be useful to open and inspect shipping units at various times throughout the sequence. This may, however, prohibit evaluating the influence of the container closure on container performance.
4.2 For Distribution Cycle 18, as referred to in MIL-STD-2073–1, the use of this practice is defined in subsequent sections identified as DC-18.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice provides a uniform basis of evaluating, in a laboratory, the ability of shipping units to withstand the distribution environment. This is accomplished by subjecting them to a test plan consisting of a sequence of anticipated hazard elements encountered in various distribution cycles. This practice is not intended to supplant material specifications or existing preshipment test procedures.
1.2 Consider the use of Practice D7386 for testing of packages for single parcel shipments.
1.3 The suitability of this practice for use with hazardous materials has not been determined.
1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
General Information
Relations
Standards Content (Sample)
This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: D4169 − 23
Standard Practice for
Performance Testing of Shipping Containers and Systems
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D4169; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope 2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
1.1 This practice provides a uniform basis of evaluating, in
a laboratory, the ability of shipping units to withstand the D642 Test Method for Determining Compressive Resistance
distribution environment. This is accomplished by subjecting of Shipping Containers, Components, and Unit Loads
them to a test plan consisting of a sequence of anticipated D880 Test Method for Impact Testing for Shipping Contain-
hazard elements encountered in various distribution cycles. ers and Systems
This practice is not intended to supplant material specifications D951 Test Method for Water Resistance of Shipping Con-
or existing preshipment test procedures. tainers by Spray Method
D996 Terminology of Packaging and Distribution Environ-
1.2 Consider the use of Practice D7386 for testing of
ments
packages for single parcel shipments.
D999 Test Methods for Vibration Testing of Shipping Con-
1.3 The suitability of this practice for use with hazardous
tainers
materials has not been determined.
D4003 Test Methods for Programmable Horizontal Impact
Test for Shipping Containers and Systems
1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded
D4332 Practice for Conditioning Containers, Packages, or
as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
Packaging Components for Testing
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only
D4728 Test Method for Random Vibration Testing of Ship-
and are not considered standard.
ping Containers
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the
D5265 Test Method for Bridge Impact Testing
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
D5276 Test Method for Drop Test of Loaded Containers by
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
Free Fall
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
D5277 Test Method for Performing Programmed Horizontal
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
Impacts Using an Inclined Impact Tester
1.6 This international standard was developed in accor-
D5487 Test Method for Simulated Drop of Loaded Contain-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
ers by Shock Machines
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
D6055 Test Methods for Mechanical Handling of Unitized
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
Loads and Large Shipping Cases and Crates
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
D6179 Test Methods for Rough Handling of Unitized Loads
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
and Large Shipping Cases and Crates
D6344 Test Method for Concentrated Impacts to Transport
Packages
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D10 on Packaging
and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D10.21 on Shipping Containers and
Systems - Application of Performance Test Methods. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved Dec. 1, 2023. Published January 2024. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 2004. Last previous edition approved in 2022 as D4169 – 22. DOI: Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
10.1520/D4169-23. the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D4169 − 23
D6653 Test Methods for Determining the Effects of High 3.2.8.1 small shipping unit, n—for DC-18, a small shipping
Altitude on Packaging Systems by Vacuum Method unit is defined as one having no edge dimension or diameter
D7386 Practice for Performance Testing of Packages for over 60 in. (1.52 m) and a gross weight of 100 lb (45 kg) or
Single Parcel Delivery Systems less.
F1327 Terminology Relating to Barrier Materials for Medi-
3.2.8.2 large shipping unit, n—for DC-18, a large shipping
cal Packaging (Withdrawn 2007)
unit is defined as one having at least one edge dimension or
F2825 Practice for Climatic Stressing of Packaging Systems
diameter over 60 in. (1.52 m) or a gross weight in excess of
for Single Parcel Delivery
100 lb (45 kg), or it is one that has a gross weight exceeding
2.2 Military Standards:
100 lb (45 kg) and is secured to a base or to the base of a
MIL-STD-810F Environmental Test Methods
shipping unit.
MIL-STD-2073–1 DOD Standard Practice for Military
3.2.9 test plan, n—a specific listing of the test sequence to
Packaging
be followed to simulate the hazards anticipated during the
2.3 Association of American Railroads Standards:
distribution cycle of a shipping unit. Included will be the test
General Information Bulletin No. 2 Rules and Procedures
intensity and number of sequential tests to be conducted. See
for Testing of New Loading and Bracing Methods or
8.5.
Materials
3.2.10 test schedule, n—the specific procedure to be used,
including the three assurance level intensities, and a reference
3. Terminology
to the test method that is the basis of the schedule.
3.1 Definitions—General definitions for the packaging and
3.2.10.1 Discussion—The purpose of the schedule is to
distribution environments are found in Terminology D996.
simulate the forces occurring during any hazard element of the
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
distribution cycle. See Section 9.
3.2.1 acceptance criteria, n—the acceptable quality level
3.2.11 total velocity change, (ΔV), n—the sum of the impact
that must be met after the shipping unit has been subjected to
and rebound velocities.
the test plan. See Section 7.
3.3 Abbreviations:
3.2.2 assurance level, n—the level of test intensity based on
3.3.1 TOFC—trailer on flatcar.
its probability of occurring in a typical distribution cycle.
3.3.2 COFC—container on flatcar.
3.2.2.1 Discussion—Level I is a high level of test intensity
and has a low probability of occurrence. Level III is a low level
3.3.3 TL—truckload.
of test intensity, but has a correspondingly high probability of
3.3.4 CL—carload.
occurrence. Level II is between these extremes. For Distribu-
3.3.5 LTL—less than truckload.
tion Cycle 18 (DC–18), see MIL-STD-2073–1 for definitions
of military levels of protection.
4. Significance and Use
3.2.3 coeffıcient of restitution, n—the ratio of the rebound
4.1 This practice provides a guide for the evaluation of
velocity to the impact velocity.
shipping units in accordance with a uniform system, using
3.2.4 distribution cycle (DC), n—the sequential listing of
established test methods at levels representative of those
the test schedules employed to simulate the hazard elements
occurring in actual distribution. The recommended test levels
expected to occur for a specific routing of a shipping unit from
are based on available information on the shipping and
production to consumption. See Table 1.
handling environment, and current industry/government prac-
tice and experience (1-13). The tests should be performed
3.2.5 feeder aircraft, n—small, potentially non-pressurized
sequentially on the same containers in the order given. For use
aircraft used to transport express packages.
as a performance test, this practice requires that the shipping
3.2.6 hazard element, n—a specific event that occurs in a
unit tested remain unopened until the sequence of tests are
distribution cycle that may pose a hazard to a shipping unit.
completed. If used for other purposes, such as package
The element will usually be simulated by a single test schedule.
development, it may be useful to open and inspect shipping
See Section 9.
units at various times throughout the sequence. This may,
3.2.7 small and lightweight package: for DC’s 2,3,4,6,9,13,
however, prohibit evaluating the influence of the container
14,15,16,17; packages weighing under 10.00 lb (4.53 kg) and
closure on container performance.
3 3
volume below 2.000 ft (0.056 m ).
4.2 For Distribution Cycle 18, as referred to in MIL-STD-
3.2.8 shipping unit, n—the smallest complete unit that will
2073–1, the use of this practice is defined in subsequent
be subjected to the distribution environment, for example, a
sections identified as DC-18.
shipping container and its contents.
5. Test Specimen
5.1 Test specimens consist of representative samples of
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
www.astm.org.
complete shipping units, including actual contents. Products
Available from DLA Document Services, Building 4/D, 700 Robbins Ave.,
Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, http://quicksearch.dla.mil.
5 6
Available from Association of American Railroads (AAR), 425 Third St., SW, The boldface numbers in parentheses refer to a list of references at the end of
Washington, DC 20024, http://www.aar.org. this standard.
D4169 − 23
TABLE 1 Distribution Cycles
Performance Test Schedule Sequence
(see Section 9 for Test Schedule definition)
DC Distribution Cycle
First Second Third Fourth Fifth Sixth Seventh
1 General Cycle—undefined distribution system Schedule Schedule D Stacked Schedule F Schedule G Schedule J Schedule A
A Vibration Loose-Load Rail Concentrated Handling
Handling Vibration Switching Impact
2 Specially defined distribution system, user select from Schedules A through I
specified (see Appendix X2)
3 Single package without pallet or skid, LTL Schedule Schedule D Stacked Schedule F Schedule J Schedule A . . .
motor freight A Vibration OR Loose-Load Concentrated Handling—
Handling Schedule C Vehicle Vibration Impact Manual
—Manual Stacking plus
Schedule E Vehicle
Vibration
4 Single package with pallet or skid, LTL motor Schedule Schedule D Stacked Schedule F Schedule J Schedule A . . .
freight A Vibration OR Loose-Load Concentrated Handling—
Handling Schedule C Vehicle Vibration Impact Mechanical
—Mechanical Stacking plus
Schedule E Vehicle
Vibration
5 Motor freight, TL, not unitized Schedule Schedule D Stacked Schedule E Schedule J Schedule A . . .
A Vibration Vehicle Concentrated Handling
Handling Vibration Impact
6 Motor freight, TL, or LTL—unitized Schedule Schedule D Stacked Schedule J Schedule A Schedule B . . .
A Vibration OR Concentrated Handling Warehouse
Handling Schedule C Vehicle Impact Stacking
Stacking plus
Schedule E Vehicle
Vibration
7 Rail only, bulk loaded Schedule Schedule D Stacked Schedule G Schedule A . . . . . .
A Vibration Rail Handling
Handling Switching
8 Rail only, unitized Schedule Schedule D Stacked Schedule G Schedule A Schedule B . . .
A Vibration Rail Handling Warehouse
Handling Switching Stacking
9 Rail and motor freight, not unitized Schedule Schedule C Vehicle Schedule E Schedule G Schedule F Schedule J Schedule A
A Stacking Vehicle Rail Loose-Load Concentrated Handling
Handling Vibration Switching Vibration Impact
10 Rail and motor freight, unitized Schedule Schedule D Stacked Schedule G Schedule J Schedule A Schedule B
A Vibration Rail Concentrated Handling Warehouse
Handling Switching Impact Stacking
11 Rail, TOFC and COFC Schedule Schedule G Rail Schedule D Schedule F Schedule A . . .
A Switching Stacked Loose-Load Handling
Handling Vibration Vibration
12 Air (intercity) and motor freight (local), over 150 Schedule Schedule D Stacked Schedule I Schedule E Schedule J Schedule A
lb (68.1 kg), or unitized A Vibration Low Vehicle Concentrated Handling
A
Handling Pressure Vibration Impact
13 Air (intercity) and motor freight (local), single Schedule Schedule C Vehicle Schedule F Schedule I Schedule E Schedule J Schedule A
package up to 150 lb (68.1 kg)†. Consider A Han- Stacking Loose-Load Low Pres- Vehicle Vi- Concen- Handling
A
using Practice D7386 for single parcel carrier dling Vibration sure bration trated Impact
shipments.
14 Warehousing (partial cycle to be added to Schedule Schedule B Ware- . . . . . . . . . . . .
other cycles as needed) A Han- house Stacking
dling
15 Export/Import shipment for intermodal con- Schedule Schedule C Vehicle Schedule A . . . . . . . . .
tainer or roll on/roll off trailer (partial cycle to A Han- Stacking Handling
be added to other cycles as needed) dling
16 Export/Import shipment for palletized cargo Schedule Schedule C Vehicle Schedule A . . . . . . . . .
ship (partial cycle to be added to other A Han- Stacking Handling
cycles as needed) dling
D4169 − 23
TABLE 1 Continued
Performance Test Schedule Sequence
(see Section 9 for Test Schedule definition)
DC Distribution Cycle
First Second Third Fourth Fifth Sixth Seventh
17 Export/Import shipment for break bulk cargo Schedule Schedule C Vehicle Schedule A . . . . . . . . .
ship (partial cycle to be added to other A Stacking Handling
cycles as needed) Handling
Non-Commercial Government shipments in
18 Refer to Annex A1 for Test Schedules applying to DC-18.
accordance with MIL-STD-2073–1
† Editorially corrected.
A
This high altitude, non-pressurized transport simulation test may be deleted from this distribution cycle when testing shipping units that contain primary packages that
have a porous material.
with blemishes or minor defects may be used if the defective The same climatic condition should be used for any assurance
component is not to be studied by the test and if the defect is level. A conditioning period should be provided which will
documented in the report. Dummy test loads are acceptable if allow sufficient time to reach equilibrium of all parts of the
testing the actual product might be hazardous. If a dummy load package and product. Tests should be conducted in the condi-
is used, it should be instrumented to determine if the fragility tioned atmosphere whenever possible. If not possible, conduct
level of the actual product has been exceeded. Take care to the tests as soon after removal from the conditioning atmo-
duplicate the load characteristics of the actual product, and sphere as practicable. Recondition the shipping units as nec-
avoid unnecessary prehandling. essary during the test plan. For atmospheres other than the
standard conditioning atmosphere, the user must determine the
...
This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: D4169 − 22 D4169 − 23
Standard Practice for
Performance Testing of Shipping Containers and Systems
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D4169; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope
1.1 This practice provides a uniform basis of evaluating, in a laboratory, the ability of shipping units to withstand the distribution
environment. This is accomplished by subjecting them to a test plan consisting of a sequence of anticipated hazard elements
encountered in various distribution cycles. This practice is not intended to supplant material specifications or existing preshipment
test procedures.
1.2 Consider the use of Practice D7386 for testing of packages for single parcel shipments.
1.3 The suitability of this practice for use with hazardous materials has not been determined.
1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of
regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D10 on Packaging and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D10.21 on Shipping Containers and
Systems - Application of Performance Test Methods.
Current edition approved Jan. 1, 2022Dec. 1, 2023. Published February 2022January 2024. Originally approved in 2004. Last previous edition approved in 20162022 as
D4169 – 16.D4169 – 22. DOI: 10.1520/D4169-22.10.1520/D4169-23.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D4169 − 23
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D642 Test Method for Determining Compressive Resistance of Shipping Containers, Components, and Unit Loads
D880 Test Method for Impact Testing for Shipping Containers and Systems
D951 Test Method for Water Resistance of Shipping Containers by Spray Method
D996 Terminology of Packaging and Distribution Environments
D999 Test Methods for Vibration Testing of Shipping Containers
D4003 Test Methods for Programmable Horizontal Impact Test for Shipping Containers and Systems
D4332 Practice for Conditioning Containers, Packages, or Packaging Components for Testing
D4728 Test Method for Random Vibration Testing of Shipping Containers
D5265 Test Method for Bridge Impact Testing
D5276 Test Method for Drop Test of Loaded Containers by Free Fall
D5277 Test Method for Performing Programmed Horizontal Impacts Using an Inclined Impact Tester
D5487 Test Method for Simulated Drop of Loaded Containers by Shock Machines
D6055 Test Methods for Mechanical Handling of Unitized Loads and Large Shipping Cases and Crates
D6179 Test Methods for Rough Handling of Unitized Loads and Large Shipping Cases and Crates
D6344 Test Method for Concentrated Impacts to Transport Packages
D6653 Test Methods for Determining the Effects of High Altitude on Packaging Systems by Vacuum Method
D7386 Practice for Performance Testing of Packages for Single Parcel Delivery Systems
F1327 Terminology Relating to Barrier Materials for Medical Packaging (Withdrawn 2007)
F2825 Practice for Climatic Stressing of Packaging Systems for Single Parcel Delivery
2.2 Military Standards:
MIL-STD-810F Environmental Test Methods
MIL-STD-2073–1 DOD Standard Practice for Military Packaging
2.3 Association of American Railroads Standards:
General Information Bulletin No. 2 Rules and Procedures for Testing of New Loading and Bracing Methods or Materials
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—General definitions for the packaging and distribution environments are found in Terminology D996.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 acceptance criteria, n—the acceptable quality level that must be met after the shipping unit has been subjected to the test
plan. See Section 7.
3.2.2 assurance level, n—the level of test intensity based on its probability of occurring in a typical distribution cycle.
3.2.2.1 Discussion—
Level I is a high level of test intensity and has a low probability of occurrence. Level III is a low level of test intensity, but has
a correspondingly high probability of occurrence. Level II is between these extremes. For Distribution Cycle 18 (DC–18), see
MIL-STD-2073–1 for definitions of military levels of protection.
3.2.3 coeffıcient of restitution, n—the ratio of the rebound velocity to the impact velocity.
3.2.4 distribution cycle (DC), n—the sequential listing of the test schedules employed to simulate the hazard elements expected
to occur for a specific routing of a shipping unit from production to consumption. See Table 1.
3.2.5 feeder aircraft, n—small, potentially non-pressurized aircraft used to transport express packages.
3.2.6 hazard element, n—a specific event that occurs in a distribution cycle that may pose a hazard to a shipping unit. The element
will usually be simulated by a single test schedule. See Section 9.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on www.astm.org.
Available from DLA Document Services, Building 4/D, 700 Robbins Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, http://quicksearch.dla.mil.
Available from Association of American Railroads (AAR), 425 Third St., SW, Washington, DC 20024, http://www.aar.org.
D4169 − 23
TABLE 1 Distribution Cycles
Performance Test Schedule Sequence
(see Section 9 for Test Schedule definition)
DC Distribution Cycle
First Second Third Fourth Fifth Sixth Seventh
1 General Cycle—undefined distribution system Schedule Schedule D Stacked Schedule F Schedule G Schedule J Schedule A
A Vibration Loose-Load Rail Concentrated Handling
Handling Vibration Switching Impact
2 Specially defined distribution system, user select from Schedules A through I
specified (see Appendix X2)
3 Single package without pallet or skid, LTL Schedule Schedule D Stacked Schedule F Schedule J Schedule A . . .
motor freight A Vibration OR Loose-Load Concentrated Handling—
Handling Schedule C Vehicle Vibration Impact Manual
—Manual Stacking plus
Schedule E Vehicle
Vibration
4 Single package with pallet or skid, LTL motor Schedule Schedule D Stacked Schedule F Schedule J Schedule A . . .
freight A Vibration OR Loose-Load Concentrated Handling—
Handling Schedule C Vehicle Vibration Impact Mechanical
—Mechanical Stacking plus
Schedule E Vehicle
Vibration
5 Motor freight, TL, not unitized Schedule Schedule D Stacked Schedule E Schedule J Schedule A . . .
A Vibration Vehicle Concentrated Handling
Handling Vibration Impact
6 Motor freight, TL, or LTL—unitized Schedule Schedule D Stacked Schedule J Schedule A Schedule B . . .
A Vibration OR Concentrated Handling Warehouse
Handling Schedule C Vehicle Impact Stacking
Stacking plus
Schedule E Vehicle
Vibration
7 Rail only, bulk loaded Schedule Schedule D Stacked Schedule G Schedule A . . . . . .
A Vibration Rail Handling
Handling Switching
8 Rail only, unitized Schedule Schedule D Stacked Schedule G Schedule A Schedule B . . .
A Vibration Rail Handling Warehouse
Handling Switching Stacking
9 Rail and motor freight, not unitized Schedule Schedule C Vehicle Schedule E Schedule G Schedule F Schedule J Schedule A
A Stacking Vehicle Rail Loose-Load Concentrated Handling
Handling Vibration Switching Vibration Impact
10 Rail and motor freight, unitized Schedule Schedule D Stacked Schedule G Schedule J Schedule A Schedule B
A Vibration Rail Concentrated Handling Warehouse
Handling Switching Impact Stacking
11 Rail, TOFC and COFC Schedule Schedule G Rail Schedule D Schedule F Schedule A . . .
A Switching Stacked Loose-Load Handling
Handling Vibration Vibration
12 Air (intercity) and motor freight (local), over 150 Schedule Schedule D Stacked Schedule I Schedule E Schedule J Schedule A
lb (68.1 kg), or unitized A Vibration Low Vehicle Concentrated Handling
A
Handling Pressure Vibration Impact
13 Air (intercity) and motor freight (local, single Schedule Schedule C Vehicle Schedule F Schedule I Schedule E Schedule J Schedule A
package up to 150 lb (61.8 kg). Consider A Han- Stacking Loose-Load Low Pres- Vehicle Vi- Concen- Handling
A
using Practice D7386 for single parcel carrier dling Vibration sure bration trated Impact
shipments.
13 Air (intercity) and motor freight (local), single Schedule Schedule C Vehicle Schedule F Schedule I Schedule E Schedule J Schedule A
package up to 150 lb (68.1 kg)†. Consider A Han- Stacking Loose-Load Low Pres- Vehicle Vi- Concen- Handling
A
using Practice D7386 for single parcel carrier dling Vibration sure bration trated Impact
shipments.
14 Warehousing (partial cycle to be added to Schedule Schedule B Ware- . . . . . . . . . . . .
other cycles as needed) A Han- house Stacking
dling
15 Export/Import shipment for intermodal con- Schedule Schedule C Vehicle Schedule A . . . . . . . . .
tainer or roll on/roll off trailer (partial cycle to A Han- Stacking Handling
be added to other cycles as needed) dling
D4169 − 23
TABLE 1 Continued
Performance Test Schedule Sequence
(see Section 9 for Test Schedule definition)
DC Distribution Cycle
First Second Third Fourth Fifth Sixth Seventh
16 Export/Import shipment for palletized cargo Schedule Schedule C Vehicle Schedule A . . . . . . . . .
ship (partial cycle to be added to other A Stacking Handling
cycles as needed) Handling
17 Export/Import shipment for break bulk cargo Schedule Schedule C Vehicle Schedule A . . . . . . . . .
ship (partial cycle to be added to other A Stacking Handling
cycles as needed) Handling
Non-Commercial Government shipments in
18 Refer to Annex A1 for Test Schedules applying to DC-18.
accordance with MIL-STD-2073–1
† Editorially corrected.
A
This high altitude, non-pressurized transport simulation test may be deleted from this distribution cycle when testing shipping units that contain primary packages that
have a porous material.
3.2.7 small and lightweight package: for DC’s 2,3,4,6,9,13,14,15,16,17; packages weighing under 10.00 lb (4.53 kg) and volume
3 3
below 2.000 ft (0.056 m ).
3.2.8 shipping unit, n—the smallest complete unit that will be subjected to the distribution environment, for example, a shipping
container and its contents.
3.2.8.1 small shipping unit, n—for DC-18, a small shipping unit is defined as one having no edge dimension or diameter over
60 in. (1.52 m) and a gross weight of 100 lb (45 kg) or less.
3.2.8.2 large shipping unit, n—for DC-18, a large shipping unit is defined as one having at least one edge dimension or diameter
over 60 in. (1.52 m) 60 in. (1.52 m) or a gross weight in excess of 100 lb (45 kg), 100 lb (45 kg), or it is one that has a gross weight
exceeding 100 lb (45 kg) 100 lb (45 kg) and is secured to a base or to the base of a shipping unit.
3.2.9 test plan, n—a specific listing of the test sequence to be followed to simulate the hazards anticipated during the distribution
cycle of a shipping unit. Included will be the test intensity and number of sequential tests to be conducted. See 8.5.
3.2.10 test schedule, n—the specific procedure to be used, including the three assurance level intensities, and a reference to the
test method that is the basis of the schedule.
3.2.10.1 Discussion—
The purpose of the schedule is to simulate the forces occurring during any hazard element of the distribution cycle. See Section
9.
3.2.11 total velocity change, (ΔV), n—the sum of the impact and rebound velocities.
3.3 Abbreviations:
3.3.1 TOFC—trailer on flatcar.
3.3.2 COFC—container on flatcar.
3.3.3 TL—truckload.
3.3.4 CL—carload.
3.3.5 LTL—less than truckload.
4. Significance and Use
4.1 This practice provides a guide for the evaluation of shipping units in accordance with a uniform system, using established test
D4169 − 23
methods at levels representative of those occurring in actual distribution. The recommended test levels are based on available
information on the shipping and handling environment, and current industry/government practice and experience (1-13). The tests
should be performed sequentially on the same containers in the order given. For use as a performance test, this practice requires
that the shipping unit tested remain unopened until the sequence of tests are completed. If used for other purposes, such as package
development, it may be useful to open and inspect shipping units at various times throughout the sequence. This may, however,
prohibit evaluating the influence of the container closure on container performance.
4.2 For Distribution Cycle 18, as referred to in MIL-STD-2073–1, the use of this practice is defined in subsequent sections
identified as DC-18.
5. Test Specimen
5.1 Test specimens consist of representative samples of complete shipping units, including actual contents. Products with
blemishes or minor defects may be used if the defective component is not to be studied by the test and if the defect is documented
in the report. Dummy test loads are acceptable if testing the actual product might be hazardous. If a dummy load is used, it should
be instrumented to determine if the fragility level of the actual product has been exceeded. Take care to duplicate the load
characteristics of the actual product, and avoid unnecessary prehandling.
5.2 Care must be taken t
...
NOTICE: This standard has either been superseded and replaced by a new version or withdrawn.
Contact ASTM International (www.astm.org) for the latest information
Designation: D4169 − 23
Standard Practice for
Performance Testing of Shipping Containers and Systems
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D4169; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope 2. Referenced Documents
1.1 This practice provides a uniform basis of evaluating, in 2.1 ASTM Standards:
a laboratory, the ability of shipping units to withstand the D642 Test Method for Determining Compressive Resistance
distribution environment. This is accomplished by subjecting of Shipping Containers, Components, and Unit Loads
them to a test plan consisting of a sequence of anticipated D880 Test Method for Impact Testing for Shipping Contain-
hazard elements encountered in various distribution cycles. ers and Systems
This practice is not intended to supplant material specifications D951 Test Method for Water Resistance of Shipping Con-
or existing preshipment test procedures. tainers by Spray Method
D996 Terminology of Packaging and Distribution Environ-
1.2 Consider the use of Practice D7386 for testing of
ments
packages for single parcel shipments.
D999 Test Methods for Vibration Testing of Shipping Con-
1.3 The suitability of this practice for use with hazardous
tainers
materials has not been determined.
D4003 Test Methods for Programmable Horizontal Impact
1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded Test for Shipping Containers and Systems
D4332 Practice for Conditioning Containers, Packages, or
as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only Packaging Components for Testing
D4728 Test Method for Random Vibration Testing of Ship-
and are not considered standard.
ping Containers
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the
D5265 Test Method for Bridge Impact Testing
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
D5276 Test Method for Drop Test of Loaded Containers by
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
Free Fall
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
D5277 Test Method for Performing Programmed Horizontal
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
Impacts Using an Inclined Impact Tester
1.6 This international standard was developed in accor-
D5487 Test Method for Simulated Drop of Loaded Contain-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
ers by Shock Machines
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
D6055 Test Methods for Mechanical Handling of Unitized
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
Loads and Large Shipping Cases and Crates
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
D6179 Test Methods for Rough Handling of Unitized Loads
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
and Large Shipping Cases and Crates
D6344 Test Method for Concentrated Impacts to Transport
Packages
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D10 on Packaging
and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D10.21 on Shipping Containers and
Systems - Application of Performance Test Methods. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved Dec. 1, 2023. Published January 2024. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 2004. Last previous edition approved in 2022 as D4169 – 22. DOI: Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
10.1520/D4169-23. the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D4169 − 23
D6653 Test Methods for Determining the Effects of High 3.2.8.1 small shipping unit, n—for DC-18, a small shipping
Altitude on Packaging Systems by Vacuum Method unit is defined as one having no edge dimension or diameter
D7386 Practice for Performance Testing of Packages for over 60 in. (1.52 m) and a gross weight of 100 lb (45 kg) or
Single Parcel Delivery Systems less.
F1327 Terminology Relating to Barrier Materials for Medi-
3.2.8.2 large shipping unit, n—for DC-18, a large shipping
cal Packaging (Withdrawn 2007)
unit is defined as one having at least one edge dimension or
F2825 Practice for Climatic Stressing of Packaging Systems
diameter over 60 in. (1.52 m) or a gross weight in excess of
for Single Parcel Delivery
100 lb (45 kg), or it is one that has a gross weight exceeding
2.2 Military Standards:
100 lb (45 kg) and is secured to a base or to the base of a
MIL-STD-810F Environmental Test Methods
shipping unit.
MIL-STD-2073–1 DOD Standard Practice for Military
3.2.9 test plan, n—a specific listing of the test sequence to
Packaging
be followed to simulate the hazards anticipated during the
2.3 Association of American Railroads Standards:
distribution cycle of a shipping unit. Included will be the test
General Information Bulletin No. 2 Rules and Procedures
intensity and number of sequential tests to be conducted. See
for Testing of New Loading and Bracing Methods or
8.5.
Materials
3.2.10 test schedule, n—the specific procedure to be used,
including the three assurance level intensities, and a reference
3. Terminology
to the test method that is the basis of the schedule.
3.1 Definitions—General definitions for the packaging and
3.2.10.1 Discussion—The purpose of the schedule is to
distribution environments are found in Terminology D996.
simulate the forces occurring during any hazard element of the
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
distribution cycle. See Section 9.
3.2.1 acceptance criteria, n—the acceptable quality level
3.2.11 total velocity change, (ΔV), n—the sum of the impact
that must be met after the shipping unit has been subjected to
and rebound velocities.
the test plan. See Section 7.
3.3 Abbreviations:
3.2.2 assurance level, n—the level of test intensity based on
3.3.1 TOFC—trailer on flatcar.
its probability of occurring in a typical distribution cycle.
3.3.2 COFC—container on flatcar.
3.2.2.1 Discussion—Level I is a high level of test intensity
and has a low probability of occurrence. Level III is a low level
3.3.3 TL—truckload.
of test intensity, but has a correspondingly high probability of
3.3.4 CL—carload.
occurrence. Level II is between these extremes. For Distribu-
3.3.5 LTL—less than truckload.
tion Cycle 18 (DC–18), see MIL-STD-2073–1 for definitions
of military levels of protection.
4. Significance and Use
3.2.3 coeffıcient of restitution, n—the ratio of the rebound
4.1 This practice provides a guide for the evaluation of
velocity to the impact velocity.
shipping units in accordance with a uniform system, using
3.2.4 distribution cycle (DC), n—the sequential listing of
established test methods at levels representative of those
the test schedules employed to simulate the hazard elements
occurring in actual distribution. The recommended test levels
expected to occur for a specific routing of a shipping unit from
are based on available information on the shipping and
production to consumption. See Table 1.
handling environment, and current industry/government prac-
tice and experience (1-13). The tests should be performed
3.2.5 feeder aircraft, n—small, potentially non-pressurized
sequentially on the same containers in the order given. For use
aircraft used to transport express packages.
as a performance test, this practice requires that the shipping
3.2.6 hazard element, n—a specific event that occurs in a
unit tested remain unopened until the sequence of tests are
distribution cycle that may pose a hazard to a shipping unit.
completed. If used for other purposes, such as package
The element will usually be simulated by a single test schedule.
development, it may be useful to open and inspect shipping
See Section 9.
units at various times throughout the sequence. This may,
3.2.7 small and lightweight package: for DC’s 2,3,4,6,9,13,
however, prohibit evaluating the influence of the container
14,15,16,17; packages weighing under 10.00 lb (4.53 kg) and
closure on container performance.
3 3
volume below 2.000 ft (0.056 m ).
4.2 For Distribution Cycle 18, as referred to in MIL-STD-
3.2.8 shipping unit, n—the smallest complete unit that will
2073–1, the use of this practice is defined in subsequent
be subjected to the distribution environment, for example, a
sections identified as DC-18.
shipping container and its contents.
5. Test Specimen
5.1 Test specimens consist of representative samples of
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
www.astm.org.
complete shipping units, including actual contents. Products
Available from DLA Document Services, Building 4/D, 700 Robbins Ave.,
Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, http://quicksearch.dla.mil.
5 6
Available from Association of American Railroads (AAR), 425 Third St., SW, The boldface numbers in parentheses refer to a list of references at the end of
Washington, DC 20024, http://www.aar.org. this standard.
D4169 − 23
TABLE 1 Distribution Cycles
Performance Test Schedule Sequence
(see Section 9 for Test Schedule definition)
DC Distribution Cycle
First Second Third Fourth Fifth Sixth Seventh
1 General Cycle—undefined distribution system Schedule Schedule D Stacked Schedule F Schedule G Schedule J Schedule A
A Vibration Loose-Load Rail Concentrated Handling
Handling Vibration Switching Impact
2 Specially defined distribution system, user select from Schedules A through I
specified (see Appendix X2)
3 Single package without pallet or skid, LTL Schedule Schedule D Stacked Schedule F Schedule J Schedule A . . .
motor freight A Vibration OR Loose-Load Concentrated Handling—
Handling Schedule C Vehicle Vibration Impact Manual
—Manual Stacking plus
Schedule E Vehicle
Vibration
4 Single package with pallet or skid, LTL motor Schedule Schedule D Stacked Schedule F Schedule J Schedule A . . .
freight A Vibration OR Loose-Load Concentrated Handling—
Handling Schedule C Vehicle Vibration Impact Mechanical
—Mechanical Stacking plus
Schedule E Vehicle
Vibration
5 Motor freight, TL, not unitized Schedule Schedule D Stacked Schedule E Schedule J Schedule A . . .
A Vibration Vehicle Concentrated Handling
Handling Vibration Impact
6 Motor freight, TL, or LTL—unitized Schedule Schedule D Stacked Schedule J Schedule A Schedule B . . .
A Vibration OR Concentrated Handling Warehouse
Handling Schedule C Vehicle Impact Stacking
Stacking plus
Schedule E Vehicle
Vibration
7 Rail only, bulk loaded Schedule Schedule D Stacked Schedule G Schedule A . . . . . .
A Vibration Rail Handling
Handling Switching
8 Rail only, unitized Schedule Schedule D Stacked Schedule G Schedule A Schedule B . . .
A Vibration Rail Handling Warehouse
Handling Switching Stacking
9 Rail and motor freight, not unitized Schedule Schedule C Vehicle Schedule E Schedule G Schedule F Schedule J Schedule A
A Stacking Vehicle Rail Loose-Load Concentrated Handling
Handling Vibration Switching Vibration Impact
10 Rail and motor freight, unitized Schedule Schedule D Stacked Schedule G Schedule J Schedule A Schedule B
A Vibration Rail Concentrated Handling Warehouse
Handling Switching Impact Stacking
11 Rail, TOFC and COFC Schedule Schedule G Rail Schedule D Schedule F Schedule A . . .
A Switching Stacked Loose-Load Handling
Handling Vibration Vibration
12 Air (intercity) and motor freight (local), over 150 Schedule Schedule D Stacked Schedule I Schedule E Schedule J Schedule A
lb (68.1 kg), or unitized A Vibration Low Vehicle Concentrated Handling
A
Handling Pressure Vibration Impact
13 Air (intercity) and motor freight (local), single Schedule Schedule C Vehicle Schedule F Schedule I Schedule E Schedule J Schedule A
package up to 150 lb (68.1 kg)†. Consider A Han- Stacking Loose-Load Low Pres- Vehicle Vi- Concen- Handling
A
using Practice D7386 for single parcel carrier dling Vibration sure bration trated Impact
shipments.
14 Warehousing (partial cycle to be added to Schedule Schedule B Ware- . . . . . . . . . . . .
other cycles as needed) A Han- house Stacking
dling
15 Export/Import shipment for intermodal con- Schedule Schedule C Vehicle Schedule A . . . . . . . . .
tainer or roll on/roll off trailer (partial cycle to A Han- Stacking Handling
be added to other cycles as needed) dling
16 Export/Import shipment for palletized cargo Schedule Schedule C Vehicle Schedule A . . . . . . . . .
ship (partial cycle to be added to other A Han- Stacking Handling
cycles as needed) dling
D4169 − 23
TABLE 1 Continued
Performance Test Schedule Sequence
(see Section 9 for Test Schedule definition)
DC Distribution Cycle
First Second Third Fourth Fifth Sixth Seventh
17 Export/Import shipment for break bulk cargo Schedule Schedule C Vehicle Schedule A . . . . . . . . .
ship (partial cycle to be added to other A Stacking Handling
cycles as needed) Handling
Non-Commercial Government shipments in
18 Refer to Annex A1 for Test Schedules applying to DC-18.
accordance with MIL-STD-2073–1
† Editorially corrected.
A
This high altitude, non-pressurized transport simulation test may be deleted from this distribution cycle when testing shipping units that contain primary packages that
have a porous material.
with blemishes or minor defects may be used if the defective The same climatic condition should be used for any assurance
component is not to be studied by the test and if the defect is level. A conditioning period should be provided which will
documented in the report. Dummy test loads are acceptable if allow sufficient time to reach equilibrium of all parts of the
testing the actual product might be hazardous. If a dummy load package and product. Tests should be conducted in the condi-
is used, it should be instrumented to determine if the fragility tioned atmosphere whenever possible. If not possible, conduct
level of the actual product has been exceeded. Take care to the tests as soon after removal from the conditioning atmo-
duplicate the load characteristics of the actual product, and sphere as practicable. Recondition the shipping units as nec-
avoid unnecessary prehandling. essary during the test plan. For atmospheres other than the
standard conditioning atmosphere, the user must determine the
5.2 Care must be taken to ensure that no degradation has
appropriate compressive load factor for warehouse and vehicle
occurred to ei
...
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