Under the specification of the Department of Defense, a UID, or Unique Identification marking system is qualified by standard regulations incorporated in MIL-STD-130. This standard contains clauses that specifically deal with the process of UID marking of parts and/or products. It also provides detailed guidelines, which contractors must follow in marking such military compliance identification for US military applications.

MIL-STD-130 states that all the government property in possession with contractors must be marked with a 2D Data Matrix barcode. This barcode must also possess machine readable print, that will help to enlist the product as registered government asset. According to these standards it is necessary to use permanent marking methods to ensure longevity of all identification.

There are many types of nameplates and UID marking labels to select from. However, all such nameplates and UID labels must meet the requirements established by MIL-STD-130. In cases where compliance is not achieved, for a particular contractor’s manufactured products or parts, this strict protocol may ultimately cancel their contract.

There are a variety of other clauses set by the Department of Defense. These rules are mandatory for all contractors responsible for the sales and distribution of various products, parts, and other assets sold to the government.