This International Standard specifies methods of testing for the stability of unit loads. These tests are intended to assess the performance of completely formed unit loads as they are subjected to the hazards of environmental exposure, storage, handling and transportation. These tests may be performed as part of a sequence.

The considered hazards relate to a land environment. Similar hazards may be expected in a marine environment but to a substantially greater degree, and additional hazards not covered by this International Standard may occur in a marine environment. It should not be assumed that unit loads which satisfactorily pass the tests of this International Standard will be stable in a marine environment.

The unit loads covered in this International Standard are not restricted to those incorporating a pallet platform, but may include other devices such as pallet boxes or slipsheets.