MIL-STD-2073.pdf

This is an informational guide for packaging and marking requirements for Department of Defense (DoD) 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 solicitations and contracts. Key packaging standards referenced include MIL-STD-2073-1E (military packaging standard practice), ASTM D3951 (commercial packaging standard), and MIL-STD-129 (military marking standards). The document details five basic military preservation methods: Method 10 (physical protection), Method 20 (preservative coating only), Method 30 (waterproof protection), Method 40 (watervaporproof protection), and Method 50 (watervaporproof protection with desiccant). Specific packaging methods are illustrated, including Methods 31-33 for waterproof and grease-proof bags with heat sealing, Methods 41-43 for watervaporproof applications with various container types, and Methods 44-45 for rigid containers. The guide includes packaging requirement codes (PRC) for specifying quantity per unit pack (QUP), intermediate container quantity (ICQ), preservation methods, cleaning and drying procedures, wrap materials, cushioning materials, container types, and unit container levels. Marking requirements encompass identification markings (NSN, CAGE code, part number, nomenclature, quantity, contract number, military method and date of preservation, weight, shelf life, and serial numbers), bar code markings, address markings using Military Shipping Labels, and special markings for hazardous materials, shelf-life items, project codes, fragile items, Method 50 packages, expedited handling, and electrostatic discharge sensitive devices. Additional requirements address wood packaging material heat treatment, palletization standards per MIL-STD-147, RFID tag applications, and quality assurance inspection provisions including visual examinations, leakage testing, and heat-sealed seam testing. The guide is not officially adopted by DoD but serves as an informational resource derived from current government packaging documents and technical manuals.