DA Packaging Requirements Summary

Summary

This session was a live coaching call focused on decoding DA (Department of the Army) solicitation packaging requirements, including reading packaging codes and using resources for compliance.
Multiple live examples from attendees were reviewed, covering different packaging requirements, codes, and special instructions, as well as troubleshooting ambiguous requirements (e.g., "ZZ").
Guidance was given on finding technical documents, interpreting FSE codes, using tools like the Camp Hillos packaging lookup, and handling common and complex packaging situations.
The call included Q&A, shared resources for packaging standards, and celebrated attendee successes.

Next session – Dave: Share the 60-page PDF with packaging tables during the next call, if not already distributed.
Next session – Dave: Prepare and demonstrate one more complex example, time permitting.
ASAP – All attendees: Watch the recently posted YouTube video on finding government items online and using FSE codes.
ASAP – Attendees with "ZZ" or unclear requirements: Submit post-award requests (PAR) or contact contracting officers for clarification as needed.
ASAP – Attendees shipping shelf-life items: Verify remaining shelf life with vendors before purchasing.

Reviewed multiple attendee-submitted solicitations, explaining how to find and interpret packaging requirements (method, codes, preservation, wrapping, cushioning, and marking).
Provided step-by-step usage of the Camp Hillos packaging tool and referenced free online resources recommended by the DLA (Defense Logistics Agency).
Explained the significance of standard packaging documents (e.g., mil-std 2073, mil-std 129, ASM D3951), when commercial packaging applies, and special instructions for hazardous or shelf-life items.
Clarified that each packaging code indicates specific requirements for the item’s protection during shipping and compliance with military/spec standards.

Outlined procedures for ambiguous or "ZZ" (to be specified) codes: check technical documents, submit post-award requests, or contact the point of contact on the contract.
Emphasized the importance of reading special instructions in solicitations, particularly for items with shelf-life, hazardous material, or special shipping (e.g., dry ice, orientation, medical markings).
Demonstrated how to search and use FSE codes to locate similar government solicitations and commercial off-the-shelf opportunities.

Detailed what is needed for mil-std 129 compliance: NSN, cage code, part number, contract date, unit of issue, and special marking codes when required.
Provided resources to find medical marking standards and instructions for labeling shelf-life and special-handling items.

Encouraged attendees to always submit bids, even if pricing seems uncompetitive, as competition may be less than assumed.
Advised on using the most recent resources, cross-referencing “cousin” FSE codes, and leveraging available PDFs and online documents for compliance.
Explained the rationale behind not being able to ship directly to the government from suppliers, underscoring the role of contractors.

Congratulated two attendees on their first contract awards, highlighting persistence and effort as key factors.
Announced continued growth of the channel and encouraged likes/comments for algorithm support.

Continue group coaching calls and practical walkthroughs each week — Maintains engagement and provides value through real solicitation breakdowns.
Share supplementary documents and links in classroom section — Ensures all members have access to reference materials.

Clarification and demonstration of "packing level B" to be addressed in a future call or via contracting officer.
Further complex packaging breakdown example pending for next session.
Pending distribution of the 60-page PDF with packaging tables if not yet shared.