Comparison of Field and Standard Random Vibration for Small-Sized and Stacked Shipments during Parcel Delivery

Abstract

Abstract In recent years, the volume of parcel shipments has increased significantly because of the rise in popularity of online shopping. This article focuses on the last mile segment of the parcel shipment, especially on the vibration behavior of the packages and van platform during transportation and the laboratory simulation of transportation vibration circumstances. The goal of this study is to measure in the field the vibration levels of small, stacked parcels and compare the results with measured vibration levels from the same measuring setup in the laboratory using ASTM D7386-16, Standard Practice for Performance Testing of Packages for Single Parcel Delivery Systems, vibration test method. For the measurements, three-layers of stacked small boxes with data recorder were set up into a delivery van to observe the vibration levels for the boxes inside and on the platform of the van, along different road conditions. The power spectral density spectra and overall Grms values of vibration intensity were presented and compared in four sections of frequency range between 1–200 Hz. The results indicate that the proposed vibration simulation does not correlate well with typical field vibration levels of the van platform and stacked packages. Based on the results, the packaging testing process can be developed as a more realistic preshipment testing process to avoid under-testing or over-testing of small parcels, thereby eliminating unnecessary packaging costs or damages.