Why sealing matters in military packaging

If you’re working with MIL-STD-2073 packaging requirements, there’s a good chance you’re dealing with heat-sealable unit containers - especially MIL-DTL-117 barrier bags.

But how do you make sure the bags stay sealed tight and meet spec?

Simple. You need a heat sealer.

There are two main types used in government contracting. Here’s what they are and when to use each.

Option 1: Impulse Sealer

What it is:

An impulse sealer uses a heating element that activates only when the handle is pressed down. You place the bag between the jaws, press down, and wait for the light to go off. That’s it! Sealed.

Best for:

  • Small jobs or low-volume contractors
  • Simple packaging tasks
  • Budget-conscious contractors

Cost:

Around $30, widely available online.

Pros:

  • Inexpensive
  • Easy to use
  • Perfect for new contractors

Cons:

  • Slower for high-volume jobs
  • Requires

Option 2: Continuous Band Sealer

What it is:

A continuous band sealer is a motorized machine that runs bags through a heated belt, sealing as you go. You can adjust the temperature to match the material.

Best for:

  • High-volume jobs
  • Fast-paced operations
  • Contractors with regular MIL-STD packaging work

Cost:

Approximately $230 and easy to find online.

Pros:

  • Fast and efficient
  • Great for batch sealing
  • Adjustable temperature for different materials

Cons:

  • More expensive
  • Slightly larger footprint

Which one should you use?

  • Use an impulse sealer if you’re starting out, don’t do many DLA contracts, or only need to seal a few bags at a time.
  • Use a continuous band sealer if you regularly handle multiple shipments, want to move faster, and need consistency across bags.

Why it matters for compliance

Remember, most MIL-DTL-117 bags require heat sealing per their spec. If a seal fails during inspection or transit, your shipment could be rejected.

Using the right tool helps ensure you meet MIL-STD-2073 requirements and that your packaging holds up under review.

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