MIL-STD-129 Packaging & Labeling: Avoiding Fatal Errors in DLA Shipping
Winning a DLA contract is only half the battle. The second half is getting the product through the gates of a Distribution Depot without a Supply Discrepancy Report (SDR). The primary cause of SDRs? Violation of MIL-STD-129.
MIL-STD-129 defines the standard practice for military marking for shipment and storage. It is not a suggestion; it is a rigid technical requirement that dictates everything from label placement to the font used in barcodes.
Key Requirements Checklist
- MSL (Military Shipping Label): Must include the TCN (Transportation Control Number), ship-to address, and specific barcodes.
- 2D Barcodes (PDF417): Modern DLA shipments require 2D barcodes that contain detailed shipment data. Incorrectly formatted 2D symbols are a top reason for shipment rejection at the depot.
- RFID Tags: For specific commodities and shipment destinations, Passive Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags are mandatory. Understanding where these are required can save thousands in rework.
The Cost of Non-Compliance
When a shipment is rejected at a DLA depot due to labeling errors, the contractor is often responsible for the cost of re-labeling or returning the goods. More importantly, frequent SDRs degrade your contractor score, making it harder to win future solicitations.
Next Level
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