In 2024, ASTM International released an updated version of ASTM D4169 with a few minor changes. This version, ASTM D4166-23e1, includes changes to Schedules B and C, in addition to other modifications.

What is ASTM D4169? 
ASTM D4169—Standard Practice for Performance Testing of Shipping Containers and Systems is a test specification for evaluating complete shipping units, with actual contents or dummy test loads, for supply chain readiness. ASTM D4169 is suitable for single packages, with or without pallets or skids, as well as rail, air, and motor freight, warehousing, and import/export shipping.

Test methods included in ASTM D4169 include:

• Compression testing
• Drop testing
• Exposure and conditioning
• Shock testing
• Stability testing
• Vacuum testing
• Vibration testing

Read more about ASTM D4169 here >> 

Has ASTM D4169 changed?
Yes. In 2024, ASTM International made several key changes to ASTM D4169. ASTM D4169-23e1 differs from the previous version, ASTM D4169-223, in several ways.

Schedules B and C, which describe static and dynamic compression testing, were updated to reflect new, increased shipping density of freight factors:

• Type 4 shipping unit construction safety factors were removed from Section 11.2 due to lack of use.
• In situations where density is unknown, the recommend default value has change from ten to twelve pounds per foot cubed.
• The “H” input in the top load formula was slightly modified. 108 inches is still considered the default maximum height of a stack in storage or a transit vehicle and is used in situations where the maximum height is unknown. However, if the package is classified as “light and small,” this is reduced to 54 inches, and the package is assumed to be in the top half of the stack.
• The standard definition of a “light and small” package has been changed to packages weighing less than ten pounds (4.53 kilograms), with volume below two cubic feet (0.056 cubic meters).

Additionally, ASTM D4169 now includes a new reference to to ASTM F2825 – Standard Practice for Climatic Stressing of Packaging Systems for Single Parcel Delivery.

Lastly, small minor editorial changes have been made. 

How does this affect my ASTM D4169 testing?
The changes to ASTM D4169 will have an impact on some shipping and distribution tests. The transit and distribution testing experts at Smithers have years of experience with laboratory testing and can help you navigate these changes to the regulatory landscape, so you can minimize disruption to your validation process.

To learn more about ASTM D4169 and transit testing services at Smithers, talk to a member of our team>>