Overview
EN 22206:1992 (identical to ISO 2206:1987) specifies a consistent system for identification of parts of complete, filled transport packages when testing. The standard covers parallelepipedal (box-like) and cylindrical packages, sacks and bags, and miscellaneous shapes. It defines how to orient a package for testing and how to number surfaces, edges and corners, enabling reproducible test conditions, clear test reports and consistent damage/location reporting.
Key topics and requirements
- Scope: Applies to complete, filled transport packages - parallelepipedal, cylindrical, sacks/bags and miscellaneous shapes. Three figures illustrate the numbering schemes.
- Orientation rule: Place the package in the position intended for transport. If transport position is unknown, place the manufacturer’s joint vertically on the observer’s right.
- Parallelepipedal packages:
- Surfaces numbered 1 (top), 2 (right), 3 (bottom), 4 (left), 5 (nearest), 6 (farthest).
- Edges identified by the two surface digits (e.g., 1-2).
- Corners identified by the three surface digits (e.g., 1-2-5).
- Cylindrical packages:
- Upper-surface diameter endpoints designated 1-3-5-7; corresponding lower/parallel points 2-4-6-8.
- Lines along the axis designated 1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8. If a manufacturer’s joint exists, it should occupy 5-6.
- Sacks and bags:
- Place with sealed end toward the observer, side seam(s) on the right (or longitudinal seam down).
- Surfaces numbered 1 (uppermost), 2 (right), 3 (lowermost), 4 (left), 5 (sealed/bottom end toward observer), 6 (filling/top end away from observer).
- Miscellaneous packages: Use a numbering method derived from one of the above schemes appropriate to the package shape.
Applications and who uses it
- Packaging engineers and designers use the standard to define test orientations and report damage locations consistently.
- Test laboratories (drop, compression, vibration) apply the numbering system to document test inputs and failure points.
- Manufacturers and shippers use the system to standardize inspection, quality control and incident reports.
- Standards bodies and auditors reference the scheme for conformity, certification and inter-laboratory comparisons.
Related standards
- ISO 2206:1987 - Packaging - Complete, filled transport packages - Identification of parts when testing (the original international reference).
- EN 22206:1992 - CEN adoption equivalent to ISO 2206:1987.
This standardized identification method improves test reproducibility, clarity in reporting and communication across supply chain stakeholders involved in transport packaging testing and evaluation.
