ShockWatch 2 – When to Use the Field‑Armable Impact Indicator
This article is part of our SpotSee® Knowledge Base.
ShockWatch 2 – When to Use the Field-Armable Impact Indicator
ShockWatch® 2 is one of SpotSee's most trusted impact indicators, designed to provide clear, irreversible evidence of mishandling during transit or storage. Unlike always-live indicators, ShockWatch 2 is field-armable, meaning it only activates once you're ready to ship. This prevents accidental activation during packing or staging and makes it ideal for higher-value or more fragile goods.
As an authorised SpotSee partner, Good Life Innovations helps businesses choose the right ShockWatch 2 sensitivity and integrate impact monitoring into their supply chain processes.
What Is ShockWatch 2?
ShockWatch 2 is a single-use, tamperproof impact indicator that turns bright red when an impact above the selected G-level occurs. It is available in seven sensitivities — 5G, 10G, 15G, 25G, 37G, 50G and 75G — making it suitable for a wide range of product fragility levels.
The device is mechanically activated and requires no batteries, electronics or maintenance. Its field-armable design ensures the indicator is only active when you choose, reducing false activations and improving reliability.
How ShockWatch 2 Works
ShockWatch 2 uses a calibrated proof mass held by buckle springs. When the shipment experiences an impact above the rated threshold, the proof mass shifts in the direction of the event and the indicator window turns bright red.
Because the response is along the vertical axis in both directions, either the upper or the lower window may redden depending on how the unit is oriented and which way the shock travelled. Red in either window means the same thing: an impact above the threshold has occurred and the goods should be inspected.
This is a purely mechanical system — no glass ampoule, no reactive liquid, no electronics — which is what distinguishes ShockWatch 2 from the ShockWatch Label, Clip and Tube, all of which use a dye-filled tube.
Key behaviours include:
- Field-armable — the sensor is armed and applied to the product when you are ready to ship
- Irreversible activation — once red, it cannot be reset
- Highly visible — deters mishandling
- Available in seven sensitivities — 5G to 75G
- Tamperproof and serialised — prevents switching
When to Use ShockWatch 2
ShockWatch 2 is ideal for shipments where accuracy, reliability and controlled activation are essential. It's best suited for:
1. Fragile or high-value products
- Medical devices
- Laboratory equipment
- Optical systems
- Precision electronics
2. Products sensitive to drops or impacts
- Industrial machinery
- Calibration-critical instruments
- Glass or ceramic components
3. Shipments requiring controlled activation
Field-armability ensures the indicator is only active once the shipment is ready, reducing false triggers during packing.
4. Supply chains needing clear accountability
The bright red activation window provides indisputable evidence of mishandling.
ShockWatch 2 vs ShockWatch Label
Both devices detect impact, but they work differently and suit different jobs:
| Feature | ShockWatch Label | ShockWatch 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Activation Method | Always live | Field-armable |
| Mechanism | Dye-filled tube | Proof mass and buckle springs |
| Sensitivity Range | 25G–100G | 5G–75G |
| False Activation Protection | Lower | Higher |
| Best For | High-volume, cost-sensitive shipments | Fragile or high-value goods |
Installation Best Practices
To ensure accurate performance:
- Mount in the lower third of the package or pallet, as close to the edge as possible
- Avoid the centre of the package — mounting locations should be structurally sound
- If the package is twice as long as it is wide, use two indicators on opposite sides
- Apply the ring label around the indicator for visibility
- Arm the sensor and apply it to the product only when the shipment is ready
If the Indicator Has Activated
A red window is evidence, but it only supports a claim if the receiving process is followed:
- Do not refuse the shipment
- Note the activation on the delivery receipt and inspect for damage
- If damage is found, leave the item in its original container and packaging
- Request carrier inspection within 15 days of delivery (3 days for international shipments)
Benefits of Using ShockWatch 2
- Reduces mishandling through visibility
- Provides clear evidence of impact
- Improves accountability across the supply chain
- Supports damage claims
- Offers more precise sensitivity options
- Prevents false activations during packing
Is ShockWatch 2 Right for Your Shipment?
Choose ShockWatch 2 if you need a reliable, field-armable impact indicator for fragile or high-value goods. Its precision and controlled activation make it a strong choice for sensitive shipments.
SpotSee is moving the range to ShockWatch 2 QR, which is identical in sensitivity, size, fitting and price and adds a scannable digital record of condition, time, date and location. We continue to stock and supply the standard ShockWatch 2 while supplies last.
As a SpotSee partner, Good Life Innovations can help you select the right sensitivity and integrate ShockWatch 2 into your packaging workflow.
Shop ShockWatch 2 field-armable indicators available in sensitivities from 5G to 75G.
Good Life Innovations Ltd is an Approved SpotSee Partner, supplying genuine ShockWatch® and TiltWatch® indicators across the UK.
Related SpotSee Guides
- ShockWatch 2 QR – When to Use the Connected Impact Indicator
- ShockWatch Label vs ShockWatch 2 vs ShockWatch 2 QR – Which Carton-Level Impact Indicator Should You Use?
- Shipping Damage Protocol and Indicator Selection Guide
Part of our SpotSee® Knowledge Base
Explore our SpotSee® Knowledge Base for product guides, comparison articles and supporting technical resources for impact, tilt and temperature monitoring.