ESD Incoming Inspection: Checking Packaging and Labelling
Goods receipt is the last checkpoint before ESD-sensitive parts enter the EPA. This guide shows how to inspect packaging, labelling and shielding performance to IEC 61340-5-3 and EN 61340-5-1, and how to document the results properly.
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Why does ESD incoming inspection matter?
Electrostatic sensitive devices (ESDS) can be damaged unnoticed during transport through friction, wrong packaging or torn protective bags. Goods receipt is the interface between the uncontrolled outside world and your EPA (ESD Protected Area), and therefore the last chance to catch defective goods.
Latent damage often shows up only later as an early field failure. A structured inspection of packaging, labelling and shielding performance lowers scrap rates and protects you from costly complaints.
- Friction and vibration generate charges during transport.
- Damaged or wrongly chosen packaging loses its shielding effect.
- Missing or wrong labelling leads to improper handling.
- Latent damage causes early failures at the end customer.
Which ESD packaging is acceptable?
IEC 61340‑5‑3 classifies packaging by function. For transport outside the EPA, shielding packaging is mandatory because only it protects the part against external electrostatic fields and discharges.
How does the incoming inspection work step by step?
The inspection combines a visual check of the labelling with a sample-based measurement of surface resistance. Visual inspection covers 100 % of each delivery, while measurement follows a defined sampling plan (e.g. AQL).
- Check labelling: is the yellow ESD warning triangle and handling symbol per IEC 61340‑5‑3 present?
- Inspect packaging for damage, holes or broken seals.
- Compare the packaging type with the delivery spec (shielding vs. antistatic only).
- Measure surface resistance on a sample basis with a resistance meter and electrodes.
- Open and repack only inside the EPA at a grounded station.
- Document the result, quarantine and report non-conforming goods.
What belongs in the documentation?
An auditable ESD control programme to EN 61340‑5‑1 requires that tests are recorded traceably. Incoming inspection is part of this compliance verification plan.
- Supplier, batch and part number of the inspected goods.
- Packaging type and result of the visual check.
- Measured resistance values and the meter used, including its calibration date.
- Inspector name, date and release or quarantine note.
Frequently asked questions
May ESD bags be opened at goods receipt?
No. Shielding packaging is opened only inside the EPA at a grounded workstation. Opening it in an unprotected receiving area removes the transport protection and puts the part at risk.
How do you recognise correct ESD packaging?
By the ESD warning triangle and handling symbol per IEC 61340‑5‑3, and by the metallised, semi-transparent shielding material used for transport. Plain pink antistatic bags provide no shielding.
What resistance must a shielding bag have?
The metallised shielding layer is typically below 10⁴ Ω, while dissipative inner layers sit in the 10⁴ to 10¹¹ Ω range. It is checked with a resistance meter and standardised electrodes.
How often must you measure at goods receipt?
Labelling is visually checked at 100 percent, while resistance is measured on a sample basis to a defined plan. Scope and interval are set by the compliance verification plan to EN 61340‑5‑1.
Looking for ESD packaging for safe shipping?
We supply shielding bags, conductive boxes and labelling to IEC 61340-5-3 - including advice on your incoming inspection.
Standard compliant
Packaging to IEC 61340-5-3 and EN 61340-5-1.
Verifiable
Measurable resistance values for your records.
Clearly labelled
ESD symbol and handling notes included.
Expert advice
ESD specialists help with inspection plan and selection.