Packaging & Labeling Standards

A Breakdown of MIL-STD-129 & MIL-STD-2073

When fulfilling DLA contracts, your packaging and labeling are just as important as the product itself. Two key military standards you’ll see in your awards are:

MIL-STD-129 – Marking for Shipment and Storage

Covers how packages must be labeled for military use, including:

• Barcodes – NSN, contract number, and other identifiers.

• Required markings – CAGE code, quantity, part number, and shipping address.

• Placement – Labels must be positioned for easy scanning and identification.

📌 Example: For a glove shipment, you’ll need an NSN label with your CAGE code, contract number, quantity, and barcode in a specified location.

MIL-STD-2073 – Standard Practice for Military Packaging

Details how to package items for protection during shipping and storage, including:

• Container type – Box, bag, crate, or special container.

• Preservation method – Heat-sealed poly bags, foil barrier bags, desiccants, or cushioning.

• Environmental protection – Moisture resistance, shock absorption, or corrosion prevention.

📌 Example: Shipping metal washers may require vapor-proof bags with desiccant inside a rigid box, cushioned to prevent movement.

✅ Why It Matters:
If your shipment doesn’t meet packaging or labeling requirements, it can be rejected at inspection, delaying payment and hurting your supplier score. Always review the Packaging section in your award instructions and request clarification if needed.