Drop testing, also known as dynamic impact testing, determines effects on test parts of random drops and repeated impacts due to handling, shipping, and other field service conditions.

Drop testing is an accelerated test designed to indicate structural and mechanical weaknesses of types not necessarily detected in shock and vibration tests. Drop testing can help determine the survivability of a product’s packaging. This will ultimately help manufacturers identify potential warranty issues from poor packaging or improper handling instructions.

Regardless of the method of shipment, air, sea, rail, or over the road, impacts are common. Impacts may be inflicted by adjacent freight jostling against the package in a carrier vehicle. Additionally, dynamic impacts may occur by accidental bumps against other freight when loaded or unloaded from vehicles, by packages bumping during sorting on conveyors, or any other circumstances.