What type of label do I need for MIL-STD-130? (DoD UID)
If your company has only just started shipping items to the Department of Defense, the abbreviation UID might be a new one to you. However, it's a crucial technology to know about because the DoD is moving towards making it mandatory for more and more types of shipments.
For MIL-STD-130, you simply need a UID label. This label consists of your company's CAGE code, the Part Number of the product, and the Serial of the item. There is also a 2D Matrix you can scan that contains all of the information printed on the label.
UID 101
UID labels are required on mission-critical items shipped to the DoD, as well as all items worth $5,000 or more. The label must contain specific information about the item, as well as be capable of withstanding the life of the item. A sturdy, accurate label is a must.
DoD Mandate
The mandate number issued by the DoD is MIL-STD-130N. It's a long, dense document, but the important part regarding UID is what's been mentioned already in this article. As for the information the DoD requires on UID labels, it's simple. They only ask for the CAGE code, part number, and serial number. It's not necessary to include any more information than that. The CAGE code is the unique five-digit number given to contractors with the Department of Defense. In addition, the type of UID label used must be at least a B rating, referring to the quality of 2D barcode image for contrast and dot-pitch accuracy.
UID options
Are you getting ready to start shipping with UID labels? There are a few options available to you. Your company can print in-house labels after an initial investment in a printer. UID printing systems are expensive but might be worth it if you print a lot of labels. A 600 DPI printer costs between $3,000 and $5,000. A UID verification System costs about $10,000. If you only need a few labels, you can order them pre-printed with all relevant information already included. SimplyRFiD's pre-printed, certified, verified UID labels are significant cost savings over purchasing a system if you are producing fewer than 1,000 UID's per month.