ISTA Procedure 3K transport test is the test standard for fast moving consumer goods in the European retail supply chain. ISTA 3K is also known as Project 3K. This project is a general simulation test for packaged consumer products shipped through the multiple retail supply chain environment in Europe.
This standard is designed for a wide range of packages sold from large retailer stores and markets. The standard also includes shipping of shop-specific mixed loads on roll cages and mixed pallets.
The environment in which ISTA 3K was designed is common with western European countries. These countries are England, France, Belgium, Denmark, Norway, Germany, Austria, Sweden, Italy, Spain and Switzerland. Project 3K can also be used for other European countries where large multi-retail environmental infrastructure is developed.
Project 3K includes several different package formats. These include:
It is important to note that ISTA 3K is only concerned with parts of the supply chain controlled by the retailer. Separate tests at the unit load level should be carried out to determine the suitability for the full pallet shipment, which is commonly checked by the brand owner.
Project 3K analyzes a series of processes occurring at the packaging level. For example, pyramid aggregation or sagging heaps. This usually occurs at the retailer's distribution center as a result of selecting other packages from the unit load. The drag of the product is also taken into account. Moving the product is an action that is simulated during the test. This is basically lifting and moving the package using the base or shrink wrap as a support. Package horizontal effects are also simulated because they usually occur with automated conveyor operations.
Various packages are used to complete the test. Test packs are used from the beginning of the test to the end. When multiple identical items are tested, they must all pass all tests. Dummy packages are used throughout the testing process.
This provides an accurate simulation of the actual hazards experienced. The third product used is a cage filling package. These are used to increase the effectiveness of packet hazard simulations.
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