MIL-STD-2073.pdf

This is an informational guide on packaging and marking requirements for Department of Defense (DoD) contracts and solicitations, issued 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 federal contract opportunities. Key specifications include MIL-STD-2073-1E for military packaging, MIL-STD-129 for marking and identification, ASTM D3951 for commercial packaging, and MIL-DTL-117 for heat-sealable bags. The document outlines five basic preservation methods: Method 10 (physical protection), Method 20 (preservative coating), Method 30 (waterproof protection), Method 40 (watervaporproof protection), and Method 50 (watervaporproof with desiccant). Military packing levels are defined as Level A for severe worldwide conditions and Level B for moderate conditions. The guide addresses packaging requirement codes (PRC), quality assurance provisions, hazardous materials handling (requiring compliance with Title 49 CFR, IMO/IMDG, ICAO/IATA, or AFMAN 24-204), inspection and testing procedures, container selection (including rigid metal and non-metal options), and marking requirements for unit packs, intermediate containers, and exterior shipping containers. Special markings include shelf-life dates, project codes, fragile/delicate indicators, Method 50 labels, expedited handling designations, electrostatic discharge (ESD) warnings, and heat-treated wood packaging material (WPM) certification. The guide also covers palletization standards per MIL-STD-147 and RFID tag requirements per DFARS Clause 252.211-7006. Useful websites and key specifications are provided for reference.