MIL-STD-2073.pdf

This document is an informational guide on packaging and marking requirements for Department of Defense contracts, published by the Defense Contract Management Agency in March 2014.

The guide provides comprehensive guidance on military packaging standards, preservation methods, and marking requirements applicable to DoD contracts. Key packaging standards include MIL-STD-2073-1E for military packaging, ASTM D-3951 for commercial packaging, and modal regulations for hazardous materials (Title 49 CFR for land transport, IMO/IMDG for water, ICAO/IATA for commercial air, and AFMAN 24-204_IP for military air). The document details five basic military preservation methods: Method 10 (physical protection), Method 20 (preservative coating), Method 30 (waterproof protection), Method 40 (watervaporproof protection), and Method 50 (watervaporproof with desiccant). Specific packaging methods (31-45, 51-52) are illustrated with diagrams showing required components including preservation, wrapping, cushioning, and container selection. Military packaging divides into Level A (most severe worldwide conditions) and Level B (moderate conditions), with minimal packing options for domestic commercial distribution. The guide includes packaging requirement codes (PRCs) that translate contract specifications into detailed requirements, special marking examples for shelf-life, project codes, fragile items, Method 50, expedited handling, hazardous materials, and heat-treated wood packaging material compliance. Additional coverage addresses identification markings, bar code requirements, Military Shipping Labels, RFID tagging per DFARS Clause 252.211-7006, and quality assurance inspection provisions including leakage and heat-sealed seam testing. The document serves as a reference tool for contractors to understand and implement DoD packaging specifications cited in solicitations and contracts.