A cornerstone standard in this area is ASTM D4169, Standard Practice for Performance Testing of Shipping Containers and Systems. ASTM D4169 defines a series of tests and hazard levels to evaluate how a packaged product will endure a typical distribution cycle. It encompasses various test methods. ASTM's paper and packaging standards are instrumental in the evaluation and testing of the physical, mechanical, and chemical properties of various pulp, paper, and paperboard materials that are processed primarily to make containers, shipping boxes and parcels, and other packaging and labeling. Packaging serves a purpose far beyond aesthetics—it ensures that products remain intact and undamaged, whether they are being shipped across vast distances or stored for prolonged periods. As members of ASTM and ISTA, DDL's engineers are well versed in these sometimes difficult to understand test standards. Manufacturers, distributors, and retailers use ASTM standards to verify packaging durability.
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