The ASTM D5276 standard (“Standard Test Method for Drop Test of Loaded Containers by Free Fall”) describes a standardized test procedure for determining the impact resistance of filled shipping containers. Its objective is to evaluate the ability of packaging (such as boxes, crates, drums, or sacks) to withstand drop-induced stresses during transport and handling, as well as its protective performance for the contents.

The loaded and sealed container is dropped from a defined height in free fall onto a rigid, non-yielding impact surface. For this purpose, INNOPROOF engineers developed a proprietary drop tower. The test enables targeted drops onto different areas of the container:

• Flat drop: Impact flat on one of the side walls.
• Edge drop: Targeted impact on an edge.
• Corner drop: Direct impact on a corner (often the most critical stress).

Following the drop, the container is inspected for external damage (cracks, buckling, opening of closures), and the contents are examined for damage or leakage.