How Military Packaging Differs From Other Packaging & Why Reid Packaging Stands Out

When it comes to packaging for military and defense, the standards are higher, the regulations are stricter, and the stakes are greater. Unlike commercial packaging, military packaging must meet highly specific requirements for durability, traceability, and environmental protection — and Reid Packaging, now part of TransPak, is built to meet those demands.

With decades of experience and full compliance with U.S. military standards, Reid is trusted by manufacturers and defense contractors alike to protect mission-critical equipment in transit and storage.

Military packaging follows strict, codified standards

At the heart of U.S. military packaging are the standards MIL‑STD‑2073‑1 and MIL‑STD‑129P. These U.S. Department of Defense documents define how items must be preserved, packaged, and marked for military distribution.

Every element — from moisture barrier bags and desiccants to foam blocking, strapping, and weather-resistant labeling — must comply with these specs. This ensures that assets remain protected through extreme temperatures, long-term storage, or rough handling across multiple transit points, including ground, sea, and air freight.

Commercial packaging, by contrast, typically follows ASTM D3951, which does not dictate the same level of protocols for environmental stress, tracking requirements, or international shipment.

It’s more than just a tougher crate

Military packaging isn’t just about building a stronger pack — it’s about engineering complete, compliant systems that ensure protection and accountability from origin to deployment.

Reid Packaging regularly produces MIL-SPEC crates and custom interior supports for fragile and high-value military equipment. We apply specialized labeling and documentation (as outlined in MIL‑STD‑129P), which includes National Stock Numbers (NSNs), serial tracking, barcode labels, and material handling symbols — all critical for government inventory and traceability.

We also work directly from Special Packaging Instructions (SPIs) when provided by the DoD or prime contractors.

Being part of TransPak expands capabilities

As part of TransPak, Reid Packaging offers customers expansive expertise in military and industrial packaging, paired with global infrastructure, logistics support, and access to world-class supply chains.

TransPak operates worldwide, and Reid’s integration into this larger network means enhanced resources, sourcing capabilities, and speed — all while maintaining our rigorous attention to detail and compliance.

Why military customers choose Reid Packaging

With over 25 years of MIL-SPEC experience, Reid Packaging is certified and ready to handle:

• Full compliance with MIL‑STD‑2073‑1, MIL‑STD‑129P, and related ASTM specs
• Custom-built wood crates, corrugated containers, and interior supports
• Moisture protection, corrosion control, foam cushioning, and weatherproof sealing
• Precise labeling, documentation, and barcode tracking for military logistics

Whether you’re shipping sensitive electronics, mechanical parts, or large-scale machinery, Reid ensures your packaging is ready for inspection, transport, and deployment.

Military packaging isn’t just packaging — it’s protection, compliance, and performance under pressure. With Reid Packaging and the backing of TransPak’s global reach, you can count on packaging solutions that meet military specs and exceed expectations.