MIL-STD-2073.pdf

This is an informational guide for packaging and marking requirements applicable to Department of Defense contracts and solicitations. The guide is not officially adopted by DoD but serves as an instructional resource for familiarization with packaging standards.

The document provides comprehensive guidance on military packaging and preservation standards, with primary focus on MIL-STD-2073-1E (Standard Practice for Military Packaging). Key packaging methods include Method 10 (physical protection), Method 20 (preservative coating), Method 30 (waterproof protection), Method 40 (watervaporproof protection), and Method 50 (watervaporproof with desiccant). The guide establishes two primary military packing levels: Level A for severe worldwide conditions using overseas-type wood boxes and reusable metal containers, and Level B for moderate conditions using domestic wood crates and weather-resistant containers. Packaging requirement codes (PRC) are standardized and include specifications for quantity per unit pack, intermediate container quantity, preservation methods, cleaning and drying procedures, preservative materials, wrap materials, cushioning materials, container types, and unit container levels. The guide addresses hazardous materials packaging requirements under Title 49 CFR (land), IMO/IMDG (water), ICAO/IATA (commercial air), and AFMAN 24-204 (military air). Marking standards are governed by MIL-STD-129 and include identification markings, bar code markings, address markings, and special markings for shelf-life, project codes, fragile items, Method 50 packages, expedited handling, and hazardous materials. Additional requirements address quality assurance provisions including preservation and packing inspections, leakage testing, and heat-sealed seam testing. Wood packaging materials must comply with heat treatment markings per international standards.