This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles

for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

Designation: D642 − 20

Standard Test Method for

Determining Compressive Resistance of Shipping
Containers, Components, and Unit Loads1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D642; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.

1. Scope Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-

1.1 This test method covers compression tests on shipping mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
containers (for example, boxes and drums) or components, or Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
both. Shipping containers may be tested with or without
contents. The procedure may be used for measuring the ability 2. Referenced Documents
of the container to resist external compressive loads applied to 2.1 ASTM Standards:2
its faces, to diagonally opposite edges, or to corners. This test D685 Practice for Conditioning Paper and Paper Products
method covers testing of multiple containers or unit loads, in for Testing
addition to individual shipping containers, components, D996 Terminology of Packaging and Distribution Environ-
materials, or combination thereof. ments
1.2 The test method of applying load may be used to D1968 Terminology Relating to Paper and Paper Products
compare the characteristics of a given design of container with D4169 Practice for Performance Testing of Shipping Con-
a standard, or to compare the characteristics of containers tainers and Systems
differing in construction. D4332 Practice for Conditioning Containers, Packages, or
1.3 This test method is related to TAPPI T 804. This test Packaging Components for Testing
method fulfills the requirements of International Organization D4442 Test Methods for Direct Moisture Content Measure-
for Standardization (ISO) Test Method 12048. The ISO stan- ment of Wood and Wood-Based Materials
dards may not meet the requirements for this test method. D4577 Test Method for Compression Resistance of a Con-
tainer Under Constant Load
1.4 The test may be conducted with the container loaded
E4 Practices for Force Verification of Testing Machines
with contents and interior packaging in cases where the
E122 Practice for Calculating Sample Size to Estimate, With
contents share the load.
Specified Precision, the Average for a Characteristic of a
1.5 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded Lot or Process
as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
2.2 TAPPI Standards:3
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only
and are not considered standard. T 412 Moisture in Pulp, Paper and Paperboard
T 804 Compression Testing of Fiberboard Shipping Contain-
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the ers
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro- 2.3 ISO Standard:4
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter- ISO 12048 Packaging—Complete, Filled Transport
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Packages—Compression and Stacking Test Using Com-
1.7 This international standard was developed in accor- pression Tester
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
2
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
1
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D10 on Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Packaging and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D10.21 on Shipping the ASTM website.
3
Containers and Systems - Application of Performance Test Methods. Available from the Technical Association of the Pulp and Paper Industry, 15
Current edition approved Oct. 1, 2020. Published October 2020. Originally Technology Parkway South, Atlanta, GA 30092.
4
approved in 1941. Last previous edition approved in 2015 as D642 – 15. DOI: Available from American National Standards Institute, 25 W. 43rd St., 4th
10.1520/D0642-20. Floor, New York, NY 10036.

Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States

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 D642 − 20
3. Terminology universal joint to a point directly centered on the platen,
3.1 Definitions—General terms for Packaging and Distribu- allowing the platen to tilt freely.
tion Environments are found in Terminology D996. 5.2 Suitable Closure Apparatus—See Appendix X1.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard: 5.3 Conditioning Apparatus—Provide adequate facilities for
3.2.1 Terms specific to fiberboard containers are found in conditioning test containers at proper relative humidity and
Terminology D1968. temperature prior to test in accordance with the requirements of
3.2.2 fixed platen testing machine (Fig. 1)—a testing ma- the specifications covering the containers to be tested. It is
chine equipped with two platens which are both restrained recommended that the atmospheres for conditioning be se-
from tilting. lected from those shown in Practice D4332. Unless otherwise
3.2.3 swiveled platen testing machine (Fig. 2)—a testing specified, fiberboard and other paperboard containers shall be
machine equipped with two platens, one rigidly restrained from preconditioned and conditioned in accordance with the stan-
tilting while the other platen is universally mounted and dard atmosphere specified in Practice D4332 for transit simu-
allowed to tilt freely. lation testing or Practice D685 when quantification of box
compression strength is required.
4. Significance and Use
6. Sampling, Test Specimens, and Test Units
4.1 Compressive resistance is one of the properties used to
6.1 Choose test specimens and sample quantities to provide
evaluate the ability of shipping containers, components, and
an adequate determination of representative performance. For
unit loads to successfully survive the compressive forces they
large production runs, lot sampling is advised. Application of
are subjected to during storage and distribution (see Note 1).
Practice E122 is suggested.
NOTE 1—For constant load test refer to Test Method D4577.
6.2 Whenever sufficient containers and contents are
4.2 Compressive resistance may be determined with either available, it is recommended that five or more replicate tests be
fixed- or swiveled-platen-type testing machines. However, a conducted to improve the statistical reliability of the data
fixed-head compression machine is required to perform edge- obtained.
to-edge and corner-to-corner orientations on test specimens
6.3 The specimens being tested shall be complete in all
(see Note 2). Also, unit loads are generally tested only in the
respects. Depending on the purpose of the test, interior
top-to-bottom orientation.
components may or may not be included. Tests shall be made
NOTE 2—Fixed-platen machines generally cause corrugated box speci- on specimens with or without contents as prescribed.
mens to fail at their strongest point, while swivel-platen machines cause
corrugated box specimens to fail at their weakest point.5 The swiveled 6.4 The test specimen shall be closed and secured in the
platen is allowed to move to the weakest point of the container. same manner as will be used in preparing them for shipment
unless otherwise specified. The method of flap securement for
5. Apparatus corrugated containers may affect test results (see Appendix
5.1 Compression Testing Machines: X1).
5.1.1 Fixed-Platen Testing Machine—Two platens, flat to
7. Calibration and Standardization
within 0.01 in. (0.25 mm) for each 12 in. (304.8 mm) in length,
and one of which is movable in the vertical direction so as to 7.1 The accuracy of the test equipment must be verified to
compress the container between the platens. One is the ensure reliable test data.
load-measuring platen, and both should be of sufficient size so 7.1.1 The overall system accuracy of the recorded or indi-
that the test container does not extend beyond the edges of the cated applied load (force) shall be verified in accordance with
platens. Both platens are fixed in the horizontal directions so as Practice E4. The loading range being verified shall be speci-
to have no lateral movement greater than 0.05 in. (1.3 mm), fied. The individual load levels within that range used for
and are held parallel throughout the test to within 0.04 in. (1 calibration testing shall be specified. The algebraic difference
mm) for each 12 in. (304.8 mm) in the length and width between errors of two applications of the same force level
dimensions. (repeatability) shall not exceed 1 %. If testing below the
5.1.2 Swivel-Platen Testing Machine—Two platens, flat to Practice E4 verified loading range is desired, then the maxi-
within 0.01 in. (0.25 mm) for each 12 in. (304.8 mm) in length, mum permissible error shall not exceed 60.2 % of the full
and one which is movable in the vertical direction so as to range of the force sensor. Calculate as follows:
compress the container between the platens. One is the E 5 F S 3 0.002 (1)
load-measuring platen, and both should be of sufficient size so
that the test container does not extend beyond the edges of the where:
platens. One platen is fixed in the horizontal direction so as to E = maximum permissible error, lbf or N, and
have no lateral movement greater than 0.05 in. (1.3 mm). The FS = force sensor’s full range, lbf or N.
second platen is attached to the machine by a swivel or 7.1.2 The required resolution on box displacement during
compression testing differs by intended use. The accuracy of
5
Singh, S. P., Burgess, G., Langlois, M., “Compression of Single-Wall Corru-
the recorded or indicated platen displacement must be verified
gated Shipping Containers Using Fixed and Floating Test Platens,” ASTM JOTE, in accordance with the equipment manufacturer’s recom-
July 1992. mended procedures.

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 D642 − 20
7.1.2.1 For quantification of box strength in compression (445 N) and 500 lbf (2220 N), respectively, are recommended.
where the accuracy of the output is affected by displacement For other types of test specimens a suitable pre-load may or
(for example, for design testing): The displacement error, may not be selected.
including the effects of any backlash in the loading system, 9.4 Fixed-platen machines must be used for tests where the
shall not exceed 60.02 in. (60.5 mm). compressive loads are applied on test specimen edges, or on
7.1.2.2 For sequential testing to a calculated load and diagonal corners (Fig. 1). Either fixed-platen or swivel-platen
quantification of box strength testing where a yield in the load machines may be used for face-to-face compressive tests (Fig.
is used as the stop criteria: The displacement error, including 2).
the effects of any backlash in the loading system, shall not
exceed 60.1 in. (62.5 mm). 9.5 If the testing machine is not fitted with a load-
deformation recorder, record the test load for every 0.1 in. (2.5
7.1.3 The accuracy of the platen travel rate at 0.5 in./min
mm) of deformation of the container (see 9.5.1). Set the
(12.7 mm/min) must be verified throughout each loading range
load-deformation recorder to display zero deformation.
in accordance with the equipment manufacturer’s recom-
9.5.1 When testing full containers, and the load sensing
mended procedures. The error, including any backlash in the
device is located under the bottom platen, be sure to zero the
loading system, shall not exceed 60.10 in./min (62.5 mm/
test machine with the product on it, or subtract the container
min).
weight from peak load readings.
8. Conditioning 9.6 Apply the load with a continuous motion of the movable
platen of the testing machine at a speed of 0.5 6 0.1 in. (12.7
8.1 Test specimens shall be conditioned prior to test or
6 2.5 mm)/min until failure or a specified load has been
during test, or both, in accordance with the requirements of the
reached (see Note 4).
applicable specification. When no conditioning requirements
are given and container materials are moisture sensitive, a 10. Report
standard conditioning atmosphere is recommended in accor-
dance with Practice D4332 for transit simulation testing or 10.1 Report the following information:
Practice D685 when quantification of box compression 10.1.1 A statement indicating that the tests were performed
strength is required. in accordance with this test method, except where noted.
10.1.2 Container Structural and Physical Specifications:
8.1.1 Moisture content determination may be carried out for
10.1.2.1 Inside dimensions should be specified for all cor-
moisture-sensitive materials at the time of the test to confirm
rugated and solid fiberboard containers.
test effects of conditioning (see Appendix X2).
10.1.2.2 Description of the contents (products) of the con-
8.2 For special applications, and depending on the purpose tainer and gross weight of the filled container, as tested.
of the test, the test specimens may be conditioned prior to the 10.1.2.3 Description and specification of materials, style of
compression test by water immersion, exposure to water spray, container, access holes, and double scores.
or other specific conditions. 10.1.2.4 Description and specifications for interior
packaging, if used.
9. Procedure
9.1 Determine the criteria for ending the test. When testing
to maximum load, defined failure limits are used. Failure may
be defined either by a reduction in the maximum load sup-
ported or by reaching a deformation limit.
NOTE 3—Typical failure values for corrugated box testing are a force
yield of 10 % (decrease from the maximum load obtained) or a deforma-
tion of 3⁄4 in. (19 mm).
NOTE 4—Special applications such as Practice D4169 may require that
a specific load be calculated and then applied to the container.
9.2 Center the specimen on the lower platen of the testing
machine in the desired orientation, so as not to incur eccentric
loading.
9.2.1 Significant errors may result during testing if the
specimen is placed off-center on the platen. Also, extensive
damage to equipment may occur if test specimens are placed
off-center on the platen.
9.3 Bring the platens into contact with the specimen apply-
ing an initial pressure or pre-load. Apply the pre-load at a rate
not to exceed 0.5 6 0.1 in./min (12.7 6 2.5 mm/min).
9.3.1 For single-wall corrugated containers, an initial force
or pre-load of 50 lbf (222 N) on the specimen is recommended. FIG. 1 Box Compression Top to Bottom Using a Fixed-Platen
For double-wall and triple-wall boxes, pre-loads of 100 lbf Machine

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 D642 − 20
10.1.4.3 Date of last calibration of apparatus and recording
instrumentation.
10.1.5 Method, if any, of conditioning the container.
10.1.6 The moisture content of the wood, plywood, or
fiberboard, if determined.
10.1.7 Description of test setup used such as pallets,
fixtures, or simulation devices.
10.1.8 The results of any supplementary tests of the mate-
rials from which the container is made.
11. Precision and Bias6
11.1 The precision and bias statement is based on data
developed from a round-robin compression test7 conducted by
eleven laboratories. The test specimens consisted of 200-lb test
C-flute regular slotted containers measuring 16 by 12 by 10 in.
When testing empty RSC-style corrugated containers for
FIG. 2 Compression Top to Bottom Using a Swivel-Platen
top-to-bottom compression strength using a fixed-platen com-
Machine
pression tester, the precision of the test method is as follows:
11.1.1 Repeatability—The difference between successive
results obtained by the same operator with the same apparatus
10.1.2.5 Spacing, size, and type of fasteners, and method of under constant operating conditions on identical test materials
closure. would in the long run, in normal and correct operation of the
10.1.2.6 Printing amount and location on container. Record test method, exceed the following values only one time in 20:
caliper of printed and plain surfaces.
10.1.3 Detailed Results for Each Test Specimen: Repeatability 5 8.5 % ~ standard deviation! (2)
10.1.3.1 Pre- and post-test damage to the container and 11.1.2 Reproducibility—The difference between two single
contents. and independent results obtained by different laboratories on
10.1.3.2 Any observations that may assist in correctly inter- identical material would, in the long run, in normal and correct
preting the results or aid in improving the design of the operation of the test method, exceed the following values only
container (for example, photographic evidence of container one time in 20:
damage).
Reproducibility 5 11.3 % ~ standard deviation! (3)
10.1.3.3 Nature and cause of failure. NOTE 5—The repeatability and reproducibility values may reflect the
10.1.3.4 Any tests performed on the test specimen prior to inherent variability of the test specimen as much as the actual variability
compression testing. of the test method and the apparatus.
10.1.3.5 A tabulation of individual maximum load and 11.2 Bias—Since there is no accepted reference material
deformation results. suitable for determining the bias for the procedure in this test
10.1.3.6 Graph or table showing the load-deformation rela- method, no statement on bias is being made.
tionship for each test.
10.1.3.7 Number of specimens tested. 12. Keywords
10.1.3.8 Mean and standard deviation calculations of all 12.1 compression; compression strength; corrugated boxes;
specimens tested. dynamic load; fixed platen; floating platen; packaging; ship-
10.1.4 Identification of Test Apparatus and Instrumentation ping containers; unit loads
Used, Including Manufacturer’s Names and Model Numbers:
10.1.4.1 Type of test machine used, such as fixed or 6
Miles, J. G., “Compression Strength of Corrugated Containers: An Interlabo-
swiveled platen. Include details of any known modifications. ratory Study,” Materials Research Standards, Vol 6, No. 3, March 1966, pp.
142–146.
10.1.4.2 Orientation in which the specimen was tested, such 7
Supporting data have been filed at ASTM International Headquarters and may
as platen speed and pre-load applied to the test specimen, if be obtained by requesting Research Report RR:D10-1015. Contact ASTM Customer
any. Service at service@astm.org.

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 D642 − 20
APPENDIXES

(Nonmandatory Information)

X1. CLOSURE APPARATUS FOR CORRUGATED CONTAINERS

X1.1 In preparation for closing, “square” the box blanks. X1.4 Other closure apparatus may be used for taping,
Distortion caused by an out-of-square setup will affect the test stapling, or strapping.
result.
X1.5 When testing empty top-loaded containers, restraining
X1.2 Use of a consistent sealing process is needed for the of inner flaps may affect test results, depending on design. The
results to be representative and reproducible. flaps, both major and minor, should not be allowed to sink into
X1.3 Suitable facilities are required, including sealing the box body during testing. Ensure that major and minor flaps
boards, clip or rods, and proper adhesives, for sealing both the are fastened together by some means.
top and bottom flaps of box specimens without bracing the
material within the boxes causing reinforcing of the sidewalls X1.6 When testing side- and end-loaded containers, sealing
of the container or vertical reinforcement that will give false should be performed in a comparable manner to what is done
results as to compressive strength. in actual practice.

X2. MOISTURE CONTENT

X2.1 Fiberboard—Determine the moisture content of fiber- 2 in.3 (32.8 cm3) each, weighing to the nearest 0.003 oz (0.1 g),
board at the time of test in accordance with TAPPI Test Method drying to constant weight between 212 and 221 °F (100 and
T 412 or equivalent. 105 °C), and reweighing. Express the moisture content as a
percentage of the oven-dry weight of the specimen. Refer to
X2.2 Wood—Determine the moisture content of wood at the
Test Method D4442.
time of test by selecting duplicate samples from different parts
of the container, immediately following the test, of minimum

BIBLIOGRAPHY

(1) Frank, B., “Corrugated Box Compression—A Literature Survey,” (4) Singh, J., Singh, S. P., and Saha, K., “Effect of Horizontal Offset
Packaging Technology and Science, published online in Wiley on Vertical Compression Strength of Stacked Corrugated Fiber-
Online Library: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ board Boxes,” Journal of Applied Packaging Research, Vol 5, No.
pts.2019/references, March 2013. 3, July 2011, pp. 131–144.
(2) Frank, B., Gilgenbach, M., and Maltenfort, M., “Compression (5) Singh, S. P., Singh, J., and Saha, K., “Effect of Palletized Box
Testing to Simulate real-World Stresses,” Packaging Technology Offset on Compression Strength of Unitized and Stacked Empty
and Science, 23: June 2010, pp. 275–282. Corrugated Fiberboard Boxes,” Journal of Applied Packaging
(3) Ievans, U., “The Effect of Warehouse Mishandling and Stacking Research, Vol 5, No. 3, July 2011, pp. 157–168.
Patterns on the Compression Strength of Corrugated Boxes,”
TAPPI Journal, August 1975.

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 D642 − 20
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