What is Mil-Spec Packaging & Why Do I Need It?

During World War II, the U.S. military discovered that they needed to improve their packaging techniques. This was after they experienced major packaging misfortunes that led to significant inefficiencies. The transformation started with the development of Mil-Spec packaging regulations. These reforms continued until 1994 when the U.S. Department of Defense launched a program to change Mil-Spec packaging to ensure it met some quality standards.

Over time, these reforms have made significant improvements in the packaging industry. Each branch in the supply chain, including ports, warehouses, and factories, currently works with the U.S. military’s packaging specifications. And today, the packaging is standardized, enhancing uniformity, consistency, and efficiency.

Therefore, if you’re looking for packaging services, it helps to find a certified Mil-Spec packaging company that understands how these standards work. At Protective Packaging, we provide packaging solutions that meet or exceed military specification standards. We have the capabilities to produce a wide range of flexible packaging products to fit any size and quantity requirement.

What Types of Packaging Does Mil-Spec Packaging Come In?

Mil-Spec packaging comes in a wide range of packaging types, including;

Why Do You Need Mil-Spec Packaging?

There are many reasons why you will need Mil-Spec packaging in your business. The most important ones are:

  • Increased reliability: One of the most important aspects of running a successful business is the ability to deliver products to your customers safely. Whether you’re shipping goods in short or long distances, you must be able to rely on your packaging. This is where Mil-Spec packaging comes in handy. This packaging option meets the highest standards of military requirements and can help protect your goods against damage during handling and storage.
  • Standardization: Mil-Spec packaging follows a standardized system. So when you use this type of packaging, you can be sure that it meets the specific requirements and dimensions, as defined by the military. This also makes it easier for you to determine the exact specifications of what you need and know how it will be protected.
  • Maximize shipments: Mil-Spec packaging policies specify the utilization of large, full containers, enabling you to maximize your shipments. By doing so, you can lessen the number of packages required, reducing the space needed per given shipment vehicle. Consequently, this can help you save money and time, leading to reduced processing expenses.
  • Create new opportunities:  If you want to work as a government contractor, you must use Mil-Spec packaging regulations to qualify. This means you must know how to quote for Mil-Spec packaging and meet all of the relevant regulations. Understanding these provisions will grant you access to the government and military market, significantly increasing the value of your business.
  • Detailed inventory: Similarly, Mil-Spec packaging standards often require you to provide exact specifications of your inventory. This promotes an environment where a detailed, organized inventory system is desired.

How Does Mil-Spec Packaging Affect Your Business?

Generally, any business that deals with physical products needs protective packaging of some kind. However, you should be aware that not all protective packaging can provide the protection you need. Plus, improper packaging can easily result in damaged goods and losses, affecting your bottom line.

So you can opt for commercial packaging, which isn’t that effective or reliable, or invest in standardized Mil-Spec packaging. The latter offers more reliability and has undergone thorough testing to achieve its designation. Undoubtedly, the U.S. military has strong military standards that are reflected in military specification packaging. This is understandable because much of the weapons the military ships are fragile, valuable, or dangerous. The U.S Military is one of the largest employers globally and accounts for a large portion of the international shipment of goods.

Many large and even international commercial companies have adopted a stringent mil-spec only packaging program due to the guarantee of the packaging’s quality and historical success of the regulations.

Common Military and Mil-Spec Acronyms To Know

  • MIL-DTL stands for the detail specification on how a requirement is to be achieved – for flexible packaging, this details the requirements for how a material is converted into a bag, pouch, cover or other construction.
  • MIL-PRF stands for the performance specification that states required results with dictating the methods to achieve them
    DoD stands for the Department of Defense
  • MIL-STD stands for the standard for processes and procedures
  • RFID stands for radio frequency identification
  • MIL-STD-130 is a specification commonly used for giving directions on how to mark items sold to the Department of Defense DoD
  • MIL-STD-129 is a standard that is used for maintaining uniformity while marking military equipment and supplies that are transported through ships
  • MIL-STD-2073 is the standard practice for military packaging. All military packages and exports must be compliant through this standard, unless they are for immediate use (less than six months of storage) or non-mission capable.

Protective Packaging is an ISO Certified, Veteran Owned Mil-Spec Packaging Company

If you sell products that require comprehensive packaging, it is essential to work with a reputable company that meets the requirements of Mil-Spec packaging. That will ensure that your goods are well protected while in the warehouse and during shipment.

Better still, if you’ve discovered a business opportunity with the government, then you must work with a packager who can interpret the complex Mil-Spec policies and comply with the regulations.

At Protective Packaging, we have extensive experience in Mil-Spec packaging standards. We specialize in flexible Mil-Spec packaging solutions including the following material specifications:

We provide on and offsite packaging that meets every aspect of the Mil-Spec standards. We also offer custom products and packaging consultancy to ensure compliance with international standards. Please contact us online or call us at 800-644-4032 to schedule a consultation and see how we can help.