Is a sample test necessary before purchasing packaging machinery?

A sample test is especially valuable when the machine must handle a specific product, unusual packaging material, or customized process. The test should measure more than whether the machine can complete a package. Record actual speed, finished-product pass rate, sealing quality, dosing error, product jams, and continuous operating time. Ideally, use the same product and packaging material that will be used in mass production, with the test method and acceptance criteria agreed in advance. For highly standardized equipment with proven applications, testing can be simplified, but key performance requirements should still be included in the acceptance documents.