MIL-STD-2073.pdf

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

The guide provides comprehensive technical guidance on military packaging standards, preservation methods, and marking requirements applicable to DOD contracts. It covers hazardous materials packaging regulations (Title 49 CFR for land, IMO/IMDG for water, ICAO/IATA for commercial air, and AFMAN 24-204_IP for military air), with MIL-STD-2073-1E serving as the primary military packaging standard. 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). It includes specific packaging methods (31-45, 51-52) with illustrated examples showing unit pack construction, container selection, cushioning requirements, and heat-sealing specifications. The guide addresses commercial packaging via ASTM D-3951 standards for items requiring minimal preservation. Additional coverage includes marking requirements per MIL-STD-129 (identification, bar code, address, and special markings), packaging requirement codes (PRC) from MIL-STD-207311E(1), quality assurance provisions, inspection and testing procedures, special handling designations (fragile, expedited, Method 50, hazardous materials), wood packaging material heat-treatment requirements, palletization standards per MIL-STD-147, and RFID tag specifications per DFARS clause 252.211-7006. The document is explicitly noted as unofficial guidance intended for familiarization only and does not supersede contractual requirements or specifications.