In the world of defense logistics and government contracting, packaging isn’t just about protection — it’s about precision, compliance, and mission readiness. One of the most critical standards governing military packaging is MIL-STD-2073, a detailed directive that outlines how military materials must be preserved, packed, and shipped. At Bentley World Packaging, we specialize in creating solutions that not only meet these rigorous standards — we make them easy to implement.

What Is MIL-STD-2073 and Why Is It Important?

MIL-STD-2073 (currently Revision E, Change 4) is a comprehensive U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) standard that prescribes packaging requirements for military supplies. Developed to ensure that items reach the warfighter in optimal condition, regardless of environment or transit challenges, this standard is required for any materials moving through the military supply chain.

It provides the specifications for:

• Preservation methods (to prevent corrosion, moisture, or degradation)
• Packaging levels (Level A, B or minimal based on handling and transportation requirements)
• Marking requirements
• Unit/container/transport packaging combinations

Simply put, if you’re supplying products to the DoD, MIL-STD-2073 compliance is non-negotiable. Failing to meet it can result in rejected shipments, delays in payment, or loss of contracts.

What Does MIL-STD-2073 Packaging Involve?

When you work with Bentley, your packaging will be designed with full adherence to the following elements of MIL-STD-2073:

1. Preservation Methods

MIL-STD-2073 defines 20+ preservation methods (like Method 10 for physical protection or Method 31 for sealing in barrier materials). Each method is chosen based on the item’s fragility, shelf-life, and sensitivity to environmental exposure.

2. Packaging Levels

• Level A: Maximum protection for severe conditions, such as overseas shipment or extended storage.
• Level B: Adequate protection during domestic shipment and handling in less demanding conditions.
• The details of the Commercial Packaging (ASTM-D3951 specification) requirements summarized are spelled out in Section D (Packaging and Marking) of the contract.

3. Container Requirements

Each package must meet strict size, strength, and material specifications to ensure load integrity and safety in storage and transit.

4. Labeling & Marking

Items must be labeled in accordance with MIL-STD-129, which works in tandem with MIL-STD-2073 to identify, trace, and manage materials in the DoD supply chain.

Bentley’s MIL-STD-2073 Expertise

Bentley World Packaging has deep experience supporting government suppliers and prime contractors across aerospace, defense, and industrial sectors. Our in-house packaging engineers and quality teams ensure compliance every step of the way:

1. Government Contract Review
   We interpret military contract requirements to ensure the correct packaging codes, levels, and preservation methods are selected.
2. Custom Crating and MIL-SPEC Materials
   We source and build packaging using MIL-SPEC barrier materials, cushioning, VCI (vapor corrosion inhibitors), desiccants, and containers as outlined in MIL-STD-2073.
3. Labeling & Documentation
   Bentley handles all MIL-STD-129 marking and DD Form 250 inspection coordination, ensuring shipments pass audits and inspections.
4. Preservation Experts On-Site
   Our trained specialists ensure packaging is executed per standard — including heat sealing, humidity control, and corrosion prevention methods.

Why It Matters: The Real-World Benefits

MIL-STD-2073 compliance isn’t just about ticking a regulatory box — it impacts real operational outcomes:

• Reliability in Harsh Environments: Whether items are headed to desert, arctic, or marine conditions, compliant packaging ensures they arrive functional.
• Avoid Contract Delays: Incorrect packaging is one of the top causes of delayed government payments or rejected deliveries.
• Audit Readiness: Compliant packaging reduces the risk of DLA (Defense Logistics Agency) penalties and contract disputes.
• Trust in Your Supply Chain: Prime contractors and government buyers trust vendors who consistently meet military standards.

Why Choose Bentley for MIL-STD-2073 Packaging?

At Bentley World Packaging, we don’t just follow the rules — we help you understand them. Whether you’re new to defense contracting or are scaling up your DoD supply chain, we provide:

• Military contract support and packaging consultation
• MIL-SPEC preservation and shipping expertise
• End-to-end packaging design, manufacturing, and documentation
• Global logistics and compliance experience

From ammo crates to aerospace components, Bentley ensures your shipments are compliant, protected, and delivered without disruption.

Contact Bentley for MIL-STD-2073 Packaging Solutions

Do you have an upcoming military contract requiring MIL-STD-2073 compliant packaging? Let Bentley take the complexity off your plate.

Call us at 800-777-5957
Email: sales@bentleywp.com
Visit: www.bentleywp.com to request a quote or schedule a consultation.