This description is from ISTA document.

ISTA 2 Series tests are a combination of basic test elements from ISTA 1 Series (Non-Simulation Integrity Performance Testing)
and advanced test elements from ISTA 3 Series (General Simulation Performance Testing)

– They challenge the capability of the package and product to withstand transport hazards, but
– They only simulate some actual transport hazards, and
– They do not necessarily comply with carrier packaging regulations.

When properly applied, ISTA procedures will provide tangible benefits of:
– Shortened packaged development time and confidence in product launch
– Protection of products and profits with reduced damage and product loss
– Economically balanced distribution costs
– Customer satisfaction and continued business.

There are three sections: Overview, Testing and Report
– Overview provides the general knowledge required before going into the testing laboratory and
– Testing presents the specific instructions to do the testing in the laboratory and
– Report indicates what data shall be recorded to submit a test report to ISTA.

Two systems of weights and measures are presented in ISTA test procedures. They are the English system Cinch-Pound) and the
international system SI (Metric). Inch-Pound units are shown first with Metric units in brackets, except in some tables where they
are shown separately.

– Either system may be used as the unit of measure (standard units), but
– The standard units chosen shall be used consistently throughout the procedure.
– Units are converted to two significant figures and
– Not exact equivalents.