ISTA® Series 1 is the group of durability test procedures — the full name in the ISTA document is Non-Simulation Integrity Performance Test. Things to know from the beginning: Series 1 does not simulate any specific transportation itinerary. It answers a narrower but more fundamental question: Are your products and packaging mechanically durable enough to withstand the basic impacts of transportation?
Because it does not simulate the journey, Series 1 is often the cheapest screening step before businesses invest in more expensive simulation tests in Series 2, Series 3 or specific distribution channel projects. It detects material errors, box structure errors, lack of internal reinforcement — errors that, if left to the actual shipping stage, would cost many times more.
This article is Pillar of the Series 1 group: the seven 1A–1H processes, the four axes that differentiate them, a comparison table, how to choose the right process according to the situation, and the limitations to know. Each procedure has its own detailed analysis article, linked inline and in the “Related articles” section at the end of the post. If you are not familiar with the ISTA standard system in general, you should read the article first What is ISTA standard? for a map of the entire series.
1. What is ISTA Series 1?
In the ISTA system, each series answers a different type of question:
- Series 1 — Non-Simulation Integrity: tests the durability of the product and packaging without simulating the journey. Processes: 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E, 1G, 1H.
- Series 2 — Partial Simulation: simulate a portion of the journey (eg 2A, 2B, 2C).
- Series 3 — General Simulation: Generic multi-leg simulation of a typical journey (eg 3A, 3B, 3E).
- Channel-specific projects (e.g. 6-AMAZON.COM) and targeted product development tests.
Three features of Series 1 that newcomers often overlook:
- There is no “distribution standard”. Series 1 results do not say your goods will survive a particular journey — they only say the packaging will withstand specified levels of mechanical testing.
- Test sequentially on the same sample. Accumulated damage from the previous step is part of the result, so do not replace the sample or “rest” it midway.
- This is a testing process, not a certification. The product is not “ISTA 1A certified”; The enterprise receives a pass/fail report according to the criteria it determines before testing (see four pass/fail criteria).
2. What processes does Series 1 include?
The seven processes of Series 1 fall into three functional groups: groups basic (1A, 1B), group expansion has compression item (1C, 1D), group vibrate randomly (1G, 1H), and a separate process for whole unit block of goods (1E).
| Procedure | Applicable subjects | Main category |
|---|---|---|
| 1A | Single packages up to 150 lb (68 kg) | Conditioning → fixed displacement vibration → shock (free fall or impact). There is no compression item. |
| 1B | Single packages over 150 lb (68 kg) | Conditioning → fixed displacement vibration → shock → rotational edge drop. |
| 1C | Single packages up to 68 kg — extended version | Conditioning → compressed → vibration (fixed displacement or random) → shock. |
| 1D | Single packages over 68 kg — extended version | Conditioning → compressed → vibration (fixed or random) → shock → rotational edge drop. |
| 1E | Unitized load of like products | Conditioning → vibration (vertical or random) → shock (incline impact or horizontal impact) → rotational edge drop. There is no compression item. |
| 1G | Single packages up to 68 kg — random vibration | Conditioning → just vibrate randomly → shock. |
| 1H | Single package over 68 kg — random vibration | Conditioning → just random vibration → shock → rotational edge drop (when not testing side 1). |
3. Four axes distinguish seven processes
Looking at the table above, we can see that the seven processes do not differ in “difficulty” but in four axes. You only need to correctly identify these four axes to choose the process:
Axis 1 — Package weight. The division mark is 150 lb (68 kg). Up to 68 kg: 1A, 1C, 1G. Over 68 kg: 1B, 1D, 1H. As for 1E, it is not divided by weight but by packaging form.
Axis 2 — Vibration pattern. Fixed displacement vibration (fixed displacement) is a traditional vibration type, simulating repetitive vibrations at a specified amplitude and frequency; used in 1A, 1B and as an option of 1C, 1D, 1E. Random vibration (random vibration) has a wide frequency spectrum, closer to real road conditions; is a mandatory choice in 1G, 1H and an option in 1C, 1D, 1E. This is the reason why pairs 1A/1G and 1B/1H exist in parallel.
Axis 3 — Whether there is a compression item or not. Only 1C and 1D have it compression conditioning — simulates stacking loads in warehouses or containers before vibration. If your goods are stacked in multiple layers, this is the decisive difference: 1A/1B does not answer the question of stacking load capacity.
Shaft 4 — Single bale or whole unit. 1A–1D, 1G, 1H are for single package (individual packaged-product). 1E is for whole unit block of goods: one or more products/bales of the same type fixed together — usually on pallets or skids — for circulation as a single unit. Pallets of mixed goods of many types not covered by 1E.
4. Comparison table of seven Series 1 procedurees
| Procedure | Subject | Vibration | Shock/impact | Compression | Steps |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1A | Single piece ≤ 68 kg | Fixed displacement | Drop or alternative impact | No | 3 |
| 1B | Single package > 68 kg | Fixed displacement | Free fall / incline / horizontal + rotational edge drop | No | 4 |
| 1C | Single piece ≤ 68 kg | Select: fixed or random | Same as 1A | Yes | 4 |
| 1D | Single package > 68 kg | Select: fixed or random | Same as 1B | Yes | 5 |
| 1E | Whole unit blocks of the same type | Choose: vertical or random | Incline impact or horizontal impact + rotational edge drop | No | 4 |
| 1G | Single piece ≤ 68 kg | Random (required) | Free fall / incline / horizontal | No | 3 |
| 1H | Single package > 68 kg | Random (required) | Free fall / incline / horizontal + rotational edge drop | No | 4 |
Specific test levels (drop height, vibration amplitude and frequency, Grms level, impact velocity, compression force) are all in the lookup table of the original document for each process — please refer directly to the current standard version when performing. The test level at the shock step also depends on the weight of the package, do not use a common level for all weights.
5. Which process to choose for your goods?
The fastest way is to follow the actual situation:
| Your situation | Proper process |
|---|---|
| Single packages up to 68 kg, no test data available, need to refine packaging design | 1A — the most basic, cost-effective and lightest device |
| Single packages up to 68 kg, want more realistic vibration conditions | 1G — vibrate randomly |
| Single package up to 68 kg, goods stacked in many layers in warehouse/container | 1C — has compression item |
| Single package over 68 kg, basic version required | 1B |
| Single packages over 68 kg, want to shake randomly | 1H |
| Single package over 68 kg, goods are stacked | 1D — with compression |
| Goods packed on pallets of the same type, fixed into blocks, shipped in the same vehicle | 1E |
| Pallets of mixed goods of many types | Not in 1E — see group 3B/3E |
| Need to simulate a specific journey (parcel, LTL, FTL, airline…) | Don’t use Series 1 — switch to Series 2, Series 3 or project by channel |
A practical note: if the business has identified a distribution channel and the customer requests a journey simulation report, Series 1 should only be an internal test first, not a replacement for the test required by that channel.
6. How is Series 1 different from Series 2 and Series 3?
These three groups do not replace each other but answer three different questions:
| Group | The question it answers | Test characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Series 1 | Is the packaging and product sufficiently mechanically durable? | No cruise simulation; discrete tests according to prescribed levels |
| Series 2 | Does the packaging withstand the major impacts of an unknown channel journey? | Partial simulation; There are additional climatic conditions |
| Series 3 | Does the packaging survive a typical channel-specific journey? | General simulation of many stages, including loading, unloading and transportation |
Therefore, the reasonable order of costs is usually: Series 1 to refine and correct the design → Series 2 when a closer to reality level is needed → Series 3 or project by channel when customers/partners request a journey simulation report.
7. What does Series 1 answer — and what doesn’t it answer?
Can answer: Can the packaging withstand vibration and shock at specified levels; Is the box structure peeling, dented, or torn at the load-bearing edges; Are the products inside moving or bumping into each other? stacking load capacity (1C/1D only).
Unable to answer: how the actual journey will impact (not simulated); number of loading and unloading times and specific routes; climate conditions outside the lab (Series 1 only regulates ambient conditions); interaction with other goods in the same container; Actual damage rate in the market.
This is why a “pass” Series 1 report does not mean there is evidence of safety for every journey — the report needs to be read with an understanding of the limitations of the chosen process.
8. Equipment and preparation before testing
Series 1 items reference standard test methods, so when you receive the report you can compare it back:
| Test item | Equipment | Reference method |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed displacement vibration | Fixed moving vibration table (1 in / 25 mm), with thin metal shim and frequency meter | ASTM D999 (Method A1 or A2) |
| Random vibration | Random vibration system with spectrum control | ASTM D4728 |
| Compression (1C, 1D) | Compression tester (apply and release / apply and hold) or counterweight + load distribution plate | ASTM D642 |
| Free fall | Free-fall drop tester | ASTM D5276 |
| Vertical shock | Vertical shock tester | ASTM D5487 |
| Incline impact | Conbur table (incline impact tester) | ASTM D880 |
| Horizontal impact | Horizontal impact test system | ASTM D4003 |
| Rotational edge drop | Rotational edge drop test system (1B, 1D, 1E, 1H) | ASTM D6179 |
| Conditioning | Sample storage area is under environmental conditions, with temperature/humidity recorded | According to the regulations of each process |
Prepare before testing: (1) determine the correct weight of the package including packaging; (2) determine single bales or whole units; (3) finalize the four pass/fail criteria with the shipper before testing; (4) unify the number of samples according to the procedure and test plan — each procedure stipulates a different minimum number of samples; (5) record the condition of the sample before testing (photos, descriptions) to separate existing damage from damage caused by testing.
9. What does cost and time depend on?
There is no universal price for “an ISTA test”: cost and time depend on the mass and size of the package, the number of items to be run (3, 4, or 5 steps), the type of vibration (random vibration requires more expensive equipment and is less available in laboratories than fixed displacement vibration), the number of samples per procedure, the climate conditioning time, and how the packaged sample must be prepared. Article What does the cost and time of ISTA packaging testing depend on? Carefully analyze these five factors and how to get quotes that are comparable between units.
10. Five common mistakes when choosing a Series 1 procedure
- Confused 1A with 1G. The two processes have the same mass group but different vibration types. If the report you need is random vibration then 1A is no substitute — see 1G.
- Ignore compressed optiones. For multi-layer stacked goods, if tested 1A/1B, the “pass” result does not say anything about the ability to withstand the stacking load.
- Use 1E for mixed pallets. 1E only applies to whole units of goods made from products of the same type.
- Consider the result a “certification”. Series 1 is a test procedure; The value lies in reporting with predetermined pass/fail criteria.
- Thought Series 1 simulates the journey. If the customer requires reporting by distribution channel, Series 2, Series 3 or project by channel are needed.
11. Frequently asked questions
Is Series 1 a mandatory standard? No. ISTA is a voluntary standard adopted at the request of customers, retailers or distribution channels. Whether it is mandatory or not is determined by the purchasing party or the channel.
Is 1A the “lightest” test? It is the most basic exercise in the group up to 68 kg, but still includes three blocks of mandatory items and must still finalize pass/fail criteria before attempting.
Can I skip the rotational edge drop step? For 1B, 1D, 1H and 1E, this is a mandatory item, unless side 1 has been tested – specific conditions according to the regulations of each process.
Is random vibration always better than fixed displacement vibration? Not “better”, but different purposes. Random vibration is closer to real transport conditions but requires more expensive equipment; In many cases where the goal is only to screen for durability, fixed displacement vibration is sufficient.
Can packaging that meets Series 1 be exempt from Series 3 testing? No. The two groups answered two different questions; Testing requirements are determined by the distribution channel or customer.
Where should my business start? Determine the distribution channel and buyer’s requirements first, then select the process group; If there are no specific requirements, Series 1 is a reasonable cost screening step.
12. Conclusion
ISTA Series 1 is a group of non-simulation durability tests consisting of seven procedures, differentiated on four axes: bale mass, vibration type, whether there is a compression item, and single bales or whole units. Choosing the right process is more important than choosing the “heaviest test” — choosing the wrong option will cost money and still not answer the business’s question.
If you need to determine the appropriate process for a specific product, start by describing: bale weight, packaging type (single bale or pallet), storage stacking conditions, and distribution channel. Those four pieces of information determine almost all of the process selection.
Reference standard version: article based on free overviews published by ISTA for Series 1 and each of the 1A–1H processes (accessed September 27, 2026). Detailed test level tables are in the original document of each procedure — the current version, look up directly from ISTA.
References
The full standard should be searched and ordered directly from ISTA. Below are the public sources used for reference when compiling the article:
- ISTA — Test Procedures (list of current series and procedures, accessed September 27, 2026)
- ISTA — free overview of each procedure 1A–1H (“Overview and equipment required” on ista.org; not sufficient to perform the test)
- ISTA — Certify your Lab (testing laboratory certification program)
- ASTM — cited method standards: D4332, D642, D999, D4728, D5276, D5487, D880, D4003, D6179
Related articles
- What Is the ISTA Standard? How to Choose the Right Transport Packaging Test (3A, 6-Amazon, ASTM D4169)
- What Is ISTA 1A? A Detailed Look at the ISTA 1A Packaging Test Procedure
- What Is ISTA 1B? The Complete Packaging Test Procedure for Packages Over 150 lb (68 kg)
- What Is ISTA 1C? The Extended Packaging Test Procedure for Packages Up to 150 lb (68 kg)
- What Is ISTA 1D? The Extended Packaging Test Procedure for Packages Over 150 lb (68 kg)
- What Is ISTA 1E? The Test Procedure for Unitized Loads on Pallets
- What Is ISTA 1G? Random Vibration Testing for Packages Up to 150 lb (68 kg)
- What Is ISTA 1H? Random Vibration Testing for Packages Over 150 lb (68 kg)
- ISTA Packaging Test Pass/Fail Criteria: 4 Things You Must Decide Yourself
- What Drives the Cost and Lead Time of an ISTA Packaging Test?
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This article is an explanatory content compiled by us for the purpose of introducing and disseminating knowledge. Article is not a translation, copy, abridgement or replacement of the parent standard, and is not evaluated, approved or sponsored by ISTA (International Safe Transit Association)..
The entire content of ISTA standards is copyrighted by the International Safe Transit Association, Inc. (East Lansing, Michigan, USA) — All rights reserved. ISTA® and the ISTA logo are registered trademarks of the International Safe Transit Association, Inc.; Mentioned in this article are for guidance purposes only and do not imply any affiliation, partnership or sponsorship.
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