Schedule C: Vehi̇cle Stacki̇ng - Services | Usability - Design Verification - Process Validation - Transport Simulation tests

Schedule C: Vehicle Stacking

Evaluate How Well Your Packaging Protects Products Under Stacking Loads

During transportation, packages are often stacked on top of one another. Packages at the bottom must support the weight above them, which can lead to crushing, deformation, or damage to the products inside.

Vehicle stacking tests under ASTM D4169 Schedule C simulate these compression loads under controlled conditions. The purpose is to assess whether the packaging can maintain its structural integrity and protect the product when exposed to anticipated stacking loads during transportation.

Why is a stacking test carried out?

Packaging must not only protect products against impacts but also withstand the loads applied during stacking. The outer packaging, internal supports, and, in some cases, the product itself contribute to supporting these loads. Packaging strength can be affected by material properties, temperature, humidity, stacking configuration, and previous transportation stresses. The purpose of vehicle stacking testing is to evaluate whether the packaging system can withstand expected compression loads without compromising product protection. The test helps identify potential weaknesses in the packaging design and assess its suitability for planned transportation conditions.

How Is Vehicle Stacking Testing Performed?

The packaged sample is placed between the plates of a compression testing machine, and a calculated compressive force is applied. The required force is determined based on the package weight, stacking height, packaging design, and relevant factors specified in the applicable standard.

What Is Evaluated?

During and after testing, the packaging is inspected for collapse, crushing, opening, or permanent deformation.

Related Standards

ASTM D4169 — Schedule C: Vehicle Stacking

ASTM D642 — Determining Compressive Resistance of Shipping Containers, Components, and Unit Loads

Let's Define the Right Stacking Conditions for Your Product

The test scope and compression load are determined based on your product characteristics, packaging design, and expected stacking conditions during transportation.

Schedule C: Vehicle Stacking