CATT MSL/IRRD Software Download
Now MIL-STD-129P Compliant
Welcome to the MSL/IRRD download page
MSL/IRRD is a free software download tool that allows you to create standard DoD labels for your government shipments.
Before you download the software at the bottom of this page, Please spend a few minutes reading the information we have put together for you here. This information will be extremely useful to you, and could save you hours of troubleshooting later on.
Once you download MSL/IRRD, be sure to give yourself some time to become familiar with the new software. You will find that most of the information you need to get started is just a mouse click away. Please be sure to come back to this page after following each link to your questions. Now, let's get started!
How do I use it?
MSL/IRRD is mostly used to create MSLs (military shipment labels) for government shipments. You may press F1 when you start the software to read online help to get started. You can also find instructions and helpful hints in our MSL section.
Can I use a label printer? What if I don't have the right one?
It is extremely unlikely that you have a compatible label printer. This is nothing to worry about. You don't need to have a label printer to create MSLs. We suggest that you use a laser printer (standard office printer) and label sheets to create MSLs. Usually, no additional setup is required to use a laser printer. Please see the Label Printer section for details and alternative suggestions.
Please note that the Zebra Z4M Plus is NOT compatible with our software. Please do not buy a new label printer to use with our software. Only the older models listed in our Label Printer section are compatible.
What is a DODAAC? Where do I get them?
A DODAAC is a Department of Defense Activity Address Code. You are required to enter a valid DODAAC in the From, Ship To, and Ultimate Consignee fields on each MSL. We understand that most commercial vendors don't have an assigned DODAAC, and are used to entering Cage Codes. However, it is a requirement that you use a valid DODAAC at this time.
To get a DODAAC for your company, you must first have a contract with a government agency. We understand that it may not be easy to get a DODAAC as a commercial vendor, and we wish that we had more specific information to provide you. However, the best advice we can offer is to call your point of contact for the contract.
This person should also help you get DODAAC information for your Ship To and Ultimate Consignee fields. This is very important information that we are unable to provide for you.
What is a TCN? Where do I get it?
A Transportation Control Number is required for each MSL. This is a unique, 17 character identification number for each shipment. Many times, you will see this number referred to as a Document Number or a MILSTRIP number. This is partially true. A document number or MILSTRIP number is only 14 characters and is usually used to identify a lineitem. You may use the document number or MILSTRIP number on your contract and add XXX to the end of that number to create a TCN for your shipment.
If you do not have a TCN number, or a way to get one, please call your point of contact for the contract. This is very important information that we are unable to provide for you.
Why aren't you able to tell me what to fill in on my screen?
The data that is entered into the software to create your labels is unique to your company, and unique to each shipment. The reason that the government is requiring that these labels are placed on each box is to allow the government recipients to easily identify the shipments using their systems.
The only way to make sure that you are putting in the right information is to check with the person who issued the contract to your company. This person will know what the DODAACs and TCN are for the order.
How do I create an MSL?
Now that you know what a TCN and a DODAAC are, it's easy! You will need some information from your contract first, so be sure to have your contract handy. Click on the MSL section for step by step instructions.
How do I enter shipments with more than one piece?
Please click on the MSL section for step by step instructions.
How do I change the margins, fonts, and other settings on my MSL?
The MSL settings cannot be changed. Certain specific data elements have to be included on your MSL so that it is MIL-STD-129P compliant. If the margins could be enlarged or if the fonts could be changed to bold, then it would be difficult to fit everything necessary in the required size.
My MSL doesn't match the one in MIL-STD-129P. Why does it look different?
The picture of the MSL in MIL-STD-129P is used as an example. The part that makes your label compliant to the standard isn't how it looks, but how the data is contained in specific places according to the standard.
Another thing to keep in mind is that if you include lineitems in your shipment, the 2D barcode will get bigger. This is normal, so don't expect your MSL barcodes to match on every label.
My barcodes look funny. How do I fix them?
There are two types of barcodes that are created. One is a linear barcode and the other is a 2D barcode. A linear barcode looks just like a regular barcode that you would see at the supermarket. A 2D barcode looks a little more complex. Some people compare it to a piece of lace, or a UPS barcode.
If any of your barcodes are missing, this is usually something that your IT/Computer Support staff can assist you with. Please see the Troubleshooting section on the MSL page for step by step instructions.
My QAR says I have to verify my 2D barcodes. How do we do this?
Unfortunately, verifying a 2D barcode is not an easy process. You'll need to get a scanner that reads 2D, and then get the scanned data to transfer into a somewhat "readable" format for you to compare against MIL-STD-129P. We can't recommend which scanners to use, or how to go about this, but we can tell you that our software is MIL-STD-129P compliant. Also, many of the military depots and warehouse that you may ship to are using our software to scan your labels and receive your boxes. Talk to your QAR for more info on how to verify your 2D barcodes.
How do I create an IRRD (or enter lineitems)?
An Issue Release/Receipt Document (or DD Form 1348-1A) is used to identify lineitems, or the actual items that you are shipping inside the box. Many people choose not to use this feature, but it is available. Again, you will need some information from your contract first, so be sure to have your contract handy. Click on the IRRD section for step by step instructions.
I need further assistance. How do I get more help?
Many commercial vendors feel that they need more information in order to use this software effectively. There are several options available to you.
I'm ready! How do I download the software?
Note: This file is about 3.6 MB and could take some time to download.
