ASTM D5277-22

Standard Test Method for Performing Programmed Horizontal Impacts Using an Inclined Impact Tester

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This test method is for use in evaluating the capability of a container or shipping system to withstand sudden shocks and crushing forces, such as those generated from rail switching impacts or pallet marshalling, or to evaluate the capability of a container and its inner packing, or shipping system, to protect its contents during the sudden shocks and crushing forces resulting from rail switching or pallet marshalling impacts. This test method may also be used to compare the performance of different container designs or shipping systems. The test may also permit observation of the progressive failure of a container or shipping system and damage to the contents. See Practice D4169 for additional guidance.  
4.2 This test method is not suitable for reproducing impact resulting from the switching of rail cars using long-travel draft gear or cushioned underframes. Refer to Test Methods D4003 (revised) as a more suitable method for testing under these circumstances, or when more precise control of shock inputs is required.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the procedures for reproducing and comparing shock damage, such as that which may result from rail switching or pallet marshalling impacts, using an incline impact tester. It is suitable for simulating the types of shock pulses experienced by lading in rail switching of rail cars with standard draft gear, but not for those with long travel draft gear or cushioned underframes. The test method can also be used for pallet marshalling tests.  
1.2 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.  
1.3 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. For specific hazards statements, see Section 6.  
1.4 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

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 14-Oct-2022
• ICS: 19.060 - Mechanical testing
• Technical Committee: D10 - Packaging
• Drafting Committee: D10.21 - Shipping Containers and Systems - Application of Performance Test Methods

Relations

• Refers: ASTM D4169-23e1 - Standard Practice for Performance Testing of Shipping Containers and Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2023
• Refers: ASTM D4169-23 - Standard Practice for Performance Testing of Shipping Containers and Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2023
• Refers: ASTM D4003-98(2019)e1 - Standard Test Methods for Programmable Horizontal Impact Test for Shipping Containers and Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2019
• Refers: ASTM D664-11a(2017) - Standard Test Method for Acid Number of Petroleum Products by Potentiometric Titration
• Effective Date: 01-May-2017
• Refers: ASTM D4003-98(2015) - Standard Test Methods for Programmable Horizontal Impact Test for Shipping Containers and Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2015
• Refers: ASTM D4169-14 - Standard Practice for Performance Testing of Shipping Containers and Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2014
• Refers: ASTM D4332-13 - Standard Practice for Conditioning Containers, Packages, or Packaging Components for Testing
• Effective Date: 15-Mar-2013
• Refers: ASTM E122-09e1 - Standard Practice for Calculating Sample Size to Estimate, With Specified Precision, the Average for a Characteristic of a Lot or Process
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2011
• Refers: ASTM D664-11 - Standard Test Method for Acid Number of Petroleum Products by Potentiometric Titration
• Effective Date: 15-May-2011
• Refers: ASTM D996-10a - Standard Terminology of Packaging and Distribution Environments
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2010
• Refers: ASTM D4169-09 - Standard Practice for Performance Testing of Shipping Containers and Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2009
• Refers: ASTM E122-09 - Standard Practice for Calculating Sample Size to Estimate, With Specified Precision, the Average for a Characteristic of a Lot or Process
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2009
• Refers: ASTM D4003-98(2009) - Standard Test Methods for Programmable Horizontal Impact Test for Shipping Containers and Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2009
• Refers: ASTM D664-09 - Standard Test Method for Acid Number of Petroleum Products by Potentiometric Titration
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2009
• Refers: ASTM D4169-08 - Standard Practice for Performance Testing of Shipping Containers and Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2008

Overview

ASTM D5277-22, titled Standard Test Method for Performing Programmed Horizontal Impacts Using an Inclined Impact Tester, is a widely recognized standard developed by ASTM International. This test method provides procedures for evaluating the durability and protective performance of containers and shipping systems when subjected to sudden shocks and crushing forces, such as those experienced during rail switching impacts or pallet marshalling. By simulating real-world distribution environments, this standard enables manufacturers and distributors to assess and compare packaging solutions effectively and ensure the safe delivery of goods.

Key Topics

• Shock and Impact Simulation: ASTM D5277-22 utilizes an inclined impact tester to replicate horizontal shock pulses typical of standard rail car switching and pallet marshalling scenarios.
• Container and Shipping System Assessment: The method evaluates the ability of packaging systems, including both containers and cushioning materials, to withstand sudden impacts and protect their contents.
• Performance Comparison: It allows for comparative analysis between different packaging designs or shipping systems, aiding in selecting optimal solutions for goods protection.
• Progressive Failure Observation: The test procedure supports the observation of how packaging or shipping containers fail and how contents may be damaged under stress.
• Test Planning and Reporting: Detailed requirements are provided for test plans, including specifying the number of impacts, velocity changes, test specimen configuration, and necessary conditioning.
• Instrumentation: Recommendations for the shock pulse measurement, including velocity and duration, ensure reliable and repeatable results.

Applications

The ASTM D5277-22 inclined impact test is crucial for a variety of industries, particularly those shipping sensitive or high-value goods by rail or through distribution systems involving pallets. Key applications include:

• Packaging Design Evaluation: Manufacturers use this method to test and refine container designs, improving resilience to transport shocks.
• Distribution Environment Simulation: Supply chain managers employ the standard to predict real-world shipping impacts, minimizing damage and claims.
• Comparative Testing: Retailers and distributors compare multiple packaging systems to select those offering superior protection during handling and transit.
• Compliance and Quality Assurance: Regulatory bodies and quality professionals rely on the test method to verify that packaging meets industry standards and fulfills contractual obligations.
• Product Safety Validation: Organizations transporting fragile, perishable, or hazardous materials test packaging performance to ensure safety and compliance with logistical requirements.

Related Standards

To support comprehensive packaging and shipping assessment, ASTM D5277-22 references several related standards:

• ASTM D880 - Test Method for Impact Testing for Shipping Containers and Systems
• ASTM D4003 - Test Methods for Programmable Horizontal Impact Test for Shipping Containers and Systems (for cases requiring greater precision or different rail car components)
• ASTM D4169 - Practice for Performance Testing of Shipping Containers and Systems (provides overall guidance on distribution cycle simulation)
• ASTM D4332 - Practice for Conditioning Containers, Packages, or Packaging Components for Testing
• ASTM D996 - Terminology of Packaging and Distribution Environments
• ASTM E122 - Practice for Calculating Sample Size with Specified Precision
• ASTM D664 - Test Method for Acid Number of Petroleum Products by Potentiometric Titration (for assessing moisture content in packaging)

Practical Value

Adopting ASTM D5277-22 improves the robustness of transport packaging, leads to fewer damaged shipments, enhances customer satisfaction, and supports compliance with regulatory and industry-specific requirements. It is an essential standard for organizations dedicated to optimizing packaging performance and reducing risk in supply chain operations.

Keywords: ASTM D5277-22, inclined impact tester, packaging test, shipping container, shock simulation, rail switching, pallet marshalling, container performance, packaging standards, distribution environment.

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: D5277 − 22
Standard Test Method for
Performing Programmed Horizontal Impacts Using an
Inclined Impact Tester
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D5277; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision.Anumber in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope D996Terminology of Packaging and Distribution Environ-
ments
1.1 This test method covers the procedures for reproducing
D4003Test Methods for Programmable Horizontal Impact
and comparing shock damage, such as that which may result
Test for Shipping Containers and Systems
from rail switching or pallet marshalling impacts, using an
D4169Practice for Performance Testing of Shipping Con-
incline impact tester. It is suitable for simulating the types of
tainers and Systems
shockpulsesexperiencedbyladinginrailswitchingofrailcars
D4332Practice for Conditioning Containers, Packages, or
withstandarddraftgear,butnotforthosewithlongtraveldraft
Packaging Components for Testing
gear or cushioned underframes. The test method can also be
E122PracticeforCalculatingSampleSizetoEstimate,With
used for pallet marshalling tests.
Specified Precision, the Average for a Characteristic of a
1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded
Lot or Process
as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only
3. Terminology
and are not considered standard.
3.1 Definitions—General terms and definitions used in this
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the
test method may be found in Terminology D996.
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
3.2.1 programming material—a resilient elastomer with
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
characteristics suitable to control the shock pulse generated, or
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
any other suitable means of control.
For specific hazards statements, see Section 6.
1.4 This international standard was developed in accor-
3.2.2 velocity change—thesumofthevelocityatimpactand
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
the rebound velocity.
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
4. Significance and Use
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
4.1 Thistestmethodisforuseinevaluatingthecapabilityof
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
acontainerorshippingsystemtowithstandsuddenshocksand
crushing forces, such as those generated from rail switching
2. Referenced Documents
impacts or pallet marshalling, or to evaluate the capability of a
2.1 ASTM Standards:
container and its inner packing, or shipping system, to protect
D664Test Method for Acid Number of Petroleum Products
its contents during the sudden shocks and crushing forces
by Potentiometric Titration
resulting from rail switching or pallet marshalling impacts.
D880Test Method for ImpactTesting for Shipping Contain-
Thistestmethodmayalsobeusedtocomparetheperformance
ers and Systems
of different container designs or shipping systems. The test
may also permit observation of the progressive failure of a
container or shipping system and damage to the contents. See
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D10 on
Practice D4169 for additional guidance.
Packaging and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D10.21 on Shipping
Containers and Systems - Application of Performance Test Methods.
4.2 This test method is not suitable for reproducing impact
Current edition approved Oct. 15, 2022. Published October 2022. Originally
resulting from the switching of rail cars using long-travel draft
approved in 1992. Last previous edition approved in 2015 as D5277–92 (2015).
DOI: 10.1520/D5277-22.
gear or cushioned underframes. Refer to Test Methods D4003
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
(revised) as a more suitable method for testing under these
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
circumstances,orwhenmoreprecisecontrolofshockinputsis
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website. required.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D5277 − 22
5. Apparatus 5.1.7 Conditioning Apparatus—Adequate facilities shall be
provided for conditioning test specimens at the proper humid-
5.1 Inclined Impact Test Equipment, conforming to the
ity and temperature prior to testing, in accordance with the
following requirements:
specification covering the containers or shipping systems to be
5.1.1 The incline track, backstop, and carriage shall con-
tested.
form to the requirements of Method D880, except that the
5.1.7.1 Conditioning—Depending on the purpose of the
backstop need not have a solid steel plate surface or a solid tests, containers may be conditioned prior to the programmed
integral mass at least 50 times the mass of the test specimen. impacttestbyeitheradifferentphysicaltest,waterimmersion,
exposure to water spray, or exposure to standard or other fixed
5.1.1.1 No removable hazard shall be fitted.
conditions of air temperature or humidity. It is recommended
5.1.1.2 In lieu of steel wheels, wheels of polyoxymethylene
that special atmospheres for conditioning be selected from
(Delrin) plastic may be used in order to reduce noise and
those given in Practice D4332. Unless otherwise specified,
improve shock pulse recording.
fiberboard or paperboard containers shall be conditioned in
5.1.2 Aprogrammingmaterialordeviceisrequiredtoshape
accordancewiththepreconditioningandstandardconditioning
and control the shock pulse seen by the test specimen(s). This
atmospheres specified in Practice D4332 (see also Practice
materialordevicemaybefastenedtoeitherthebackstoporthe
D4169 for additional guidance).
impactingfaceofthebulkhead.Anymaterialordevicemaybe
5.1.7.2 Where the moisture content of fiberboard containers
used, provided that is yields a repeatable, controllable test. is determined, it should be determined in accordance withTest
Package cushionings of suitable elasticity have been found to Method D664.
be satisfactory.
6. Hazards
5.1.3 The carriage shall be fitted with a bulkhead at a
1 6.1 This test method may produce severe mechanical re-
90-degree 6 30 min (90 6 ⁄2-degree) angle to the top surface
sponses in the test specimen and apparatus. Operating person-
of the carriage. The bulkhead shall be fitted so that, upon
nel must therefore remain alert to potential hazards and take
release, either the bulkhead impacts first on the programming
necessary safety precautions. The test area should be cleared
material, or the carriage and bulkhead impact on the program-
prior to each impact. The testing of hazardous materials or
mingmaterialatthesametime.Thebulkheadshallbeattached
products may require special precautions that must be ob-
securely to the carriage and shall be sufficiently rigid to
served. Safety equipment may be required, and its use must be
withstand impact shocks without significant distortion.
understood before starting the test.
5.1.4 When specified, a backload suitable to reproduce the
crushing forces from other products impacting the test unit 7. Sampling
shall be provided. This will necessitate sufficient carriage and
7.1 The test specimens and number of samples shall be
bulkhead strength, as well as rigidity in the backstop, to
chosen to permit an adequate determination of representative
withstand the additional forces generated without significant
performance. Practice E122 is recommended.
distortion. The face of this backload that contacts the test
7.2 In the absence of any sampling plan, at least three
specimen shall replicate a backload of the same product in
representative specimens should be selected for performance
dimension, area of contact, and resilience.
evaluation.
5.1.5 To prevent secondary impacts, the test apparatus shall
8. Test Specimens
be fitted with a means of arresting the motion of the carriage
after the primary impact.
8.1 When the protective capability of a container or ship-
5.1.6 Instrumentation shall be provided to determine the ping system is to be evaluated, it is preferable to pack the
container with the actual contents for which it was designed
velocity at impact and the rebound velocity to an accuracy of
(Note 1). When the integrity of a container or shipping system
6 5%.Additional instrumentation shall be provided to record
is to be evaluated, pack the container or shipping system with
the shock pulse shape, magnitude, and duration. The shock
either the actual contents or a load simulating the contents.
recording instrumentation shall have a frequency response at
Regardless of which procedure is used, close the container or
least 20 times the frequency being recorded, a cross-axis
shipping system in the same manner that will be used in
sensitivitymaximumof5%offullscale,andanaccuracyof 6
preparing it for shipment.
2% of the actual values as measured.
5.1.6.1 Instrumentation sensors shall be placed on the out- NOTE 1—Where the use of actual contents is not feasible because of
excessive cost or danger, a dummy load simulating the contents with
side of the carriage bulkhead within 6 in. (150 mm), measured
respect to dimensions, center of gravity, moment of inertia, density, flow
perpendicularly to the programming material.
characteristics, etc. may be used.
5.1.6.2 Optional instrumentation may include optical or
9. Procedure
mechanical timing devices for measuring the carriage impact
and rebound velociti
...

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: D5277 − 92 (Reapproved 2015) D5277 − 22
Standard Test Method for
Performing Programmed Horizontal Impacts Using an
Inclined Impact Tester
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D5277; 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.
1. Scope
1.1 This test method covers the procedures for reproducing and comparing shock damage, such as that which may result from rail
switching or pallet marshalling impacts, using an incline impact tester. It is suitable for simulating the types of shock pulses
experienced by lading in rail switching of rail cars with standard draft gear, but not for those with long travel draft gear or
cushioned underframes. The test method can also be used for pallet marshalling tests.
1.2 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.
1.3 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 safety, health, and healthenvironmental practices and determine the
applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific hazards statements, see Section 6.
1.4 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.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D664 Test Method for Acid Number of Petroleum Products by Potentiometric Titration
D880 Test Method for Impact Testing for Shipping Containers and Systems
D996 Terminology of Packaging and Distribution Environments
D4003 Test Methods for Programmable Horizontal Impact Test for Shipping Containers and Systems
D4169 Practice for Performance Testing of Shipping Containers and Systems
D4332 Practice for Conditioning Containers, Packages, or Packaging Components for Testing
E122 Practice for Calculating Sample Size to Estimate, With Specified Precision, the Average for a Characteristic of a Lot or
Process
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—General terms and definitions used in this test method may be found in Terminology D996.
This test method 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 April 1, 2015Oct. 15, 2022. Published May 2015October 2022. Originally approved in 1992. Last previous edition approved in 20082015 as
D5277 – 92 (2008).(2015). DOI: 10.1520/D5277-92R15.10.1520/D5277-22.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D5277 − 22
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 programming material—a resilient elastomer with characteristics suitable to control the shock pulse generated, or any other
suitable means of control.
3.2.2 velocity change—the sum of the velocity at impact and the rebound velocity.
4. Significance and Use
4.1 This test method is for use in evaluating the capability of a container or shipping system to withstand sudden shocks and
crushing forces, such as those generated from rail switching impacts or pallet marshalling, or to evaluate the capability of a
container and its inner packing, or shipping system, to protect its contents during the sudden shocks and crushing forces resulting
from rail switching or pallet marshalling impacts. This test method may also be used to compare the performance of different
container designs or shipping systems. The test may also permit observation of the progressive failure of a container or shipping
system and damage to the contents. See Practice D4169 for additional guidance.
4.2 This test method is not suitable for reproducing impact resulting from the switching of rail cars using long-travel draft gear
or cushioned underframes. Refer to Method Test Methods D4003 (revised) as a more suitable method for testing under these
circumstances, or when more precise control of shock inputs is required.
5. Apparatus
5.1 Inclined Impact Test Equipment, conforming to the following requirements:
5.1.1 The incline track, backstop, and carriage shall conform to the requirements of Method D880, except that the backstop need
not have a solid steel plate surface or a solid integral mass at least 50 times the mass of the test specimen.
5.1.1.1 No removable hazard shall be fitted.
5.1.1.2 In lieu of steel wheels, wheels of polyoxymethylene (Delrin) plastic may be used in order to reduce noise and improve
shock pulse recording.
5.1.2 A programming material or device is required to shape and control the shock pulse seen by the test specimen(s). This
material or device may be fastened to either the backstop or the impacting face of the bulkhead. Any material or device may be
used, provided that is yields a repeatable, controllable test. Package cushionings of suitable elasticity have been found to be
satisfactory.
5.1.3 The carriage shall be fitted with a bulkhead at a 90-degree 6 30 min (90 6 ⁄2-degree) angle to the top surface of the carriage.
The bulkhead shall be fitted so that, upon release, either the bulkhead impacts first on the programming material, or the carriage
and bulkhead impact on the programming material at the same time. The bulkhead shall be attached securely to the carriage and
shall be sufficiently rigid to withstand impact shocks without significant distortion.
5.1.4 When specified, a backload suitable to reproduce the crushing forces from other products impacting the test unit shall be
provided. This will necessitate sufficient carriage and bulkhead strength, as well as rigidity in the backstop, to withstand the
additional forces generated without significant distortion. The face of this backload that contacts the test specimen shall replicate
a backload of the same product in dimension, area of contact, and resilience.
5.1.5 To prevent secondary impacts, the test apparatus shall be fitted with a means of arresting the motion of the carriage after
the primary impact.
5.1.6 Instrumentation shall be provided to determine the velocity at impact and the rebound velocity to an accuracy of 6 5 %.
Additional instrumentation shall be provided to record the shock pulse shape, magnitude, and duration. The shock recording
instrumentation shall have a frequency response at least 20 times the frequency being recorded, a cross-axis sensitivity maximum
of 5 % of full scale, and an accuracy of 6 2 % of the actual values as measured.
5.1.6.1 Instrumentation sensors shall be placed on the outside of the carriage bulkhead within 6 in. (150 mm), measured
perpendicularly to the programming material.
D5277 − 22
5.1.6.2 Optional instrumentation may include optical or mechanical timing devices for measuring the carriage impact and rebound
velocities for determining the total velocity change. If used, this system shall have a response for each velocity measurement
accurate to within 6 2.5 % of the actual value.
5.1.7 Conditioning Apparatus—Adequate facilities shall be provided for conditioning test specimens at the proper humidity and
temperature prior to testing, in accordance with the specification covering the containers or shipping systems to be tested.
5.1.7.1 Conditioning—Depending on the purpose of the tests, containers may be conditioned prior to the programmed impact test
by either a different physical test, water immersion, exposure to water spray, or exposure to standard or other fixed conditions of
air temperature or humidity. It is recommended that special atmospheres for conditioning be selected from those given in Practice
D4332. Unless otherwise specified, fiberboard or paperboard containers shall be conditioned in accordance with the precondi-
tioning and standard conditioning atmospheres specified in Practice D4332 (see also Practice D4169 for additional guidance).
5.1.7.2 Where the moisture content of fiberboard containers is determined, it should be determined in accordance with Test
Method D664.
6. Hazards
6.1 This test method may produce severe mechanical responses in the test specimen and apparatus. Operating personnel must
therefore remain alert to potential hazards and take necessary safety precautions. The test area should be cleared prior to each
impact. The testing of hazardous materials or products may require special precautions that must be observed. Safety equipment
may be required, and its use must be understood before starting the test.
7. Sampling
7.1 The test specimens and number of samples shall be chosen to permit an adequate determination of representative performance.
Practice E122 is recommended.
7.2 In the absence of any sampling plan, at least three representative specimens should be selected for performance evaluation.
8. Test Specimens
8.1 When the protective capability of a container or shipping system is to be evaluated, it is preferable to pack the container with
the actual contents for which it was designed (Note 1). When the integrity of a container or shipping system is to be evaluated,
pack the container or shipping system with either the actual contents or a load simulating the contents. Regardless of which
procedure is used, close the container or shipping system in the same manner that will be used in preparing it for shipment.
NOTE 1—Where the use of actual contents is not feasible because of excessive cost or danger, a
...