SF Form 700:Security Container Information Form (2026 Guide)

SF Form 700: Security Container Information Form (2026 Guide) – The SF Form 700, officially titled Security Container Information, is a mandatory U.S. government standard form used to document critical details about security containers (such as GSA-approved safes), vaults, or secure room doors that store classified information. It helps prevent costly and time-consuming forced entries when combinations are forgotten or lost, while ensuring proper emergency contact procedures and secure handling of sensitive data.

This form is required across U.S. government departments and agencies, particularly within the Department of Defense (DoD), under policies like DoD Manual 5200.01, Volume 3 (Protection of Classified Information). It standardizes record-keeping for container location, lock details, and authorized personnel contacts.

Why Is SF Form 700 Required?

Security containers protect classified national security information. If a container is found open and unattended, or if the combination is lost, rapid response is essential to safeguard contents. The SF 700 addresses this by:

Recording the container’s location and identifying details.
Listing names, home addresses, and home telephone numbers of individuals who know the combination (for emergency contact).
Providing a secure method to record the actual combination.

Maintaining an up-to-date SF 700 for every container, vault, or secure room door used for classified storage is mandatory. Update the form each time the combination changes. Failure to do so can violate information security regulations and lead to compliance issues during inspections.

According to DoD guidance, combinations themselves are classified at the highest level authorized for storage in the container. Written records of combinations must receive equivalent protection.

Structure of the SF 700 Form

The SF 700 is a specialized three-part carbonless form with an integrated envelope (National Stock Number NSN 7540-01-214-5372). It includes:

Part 1 (cover sheet): Unclassified but contains Personally Identifiable Information (PII). This part attaches to the inside of the security container (typically the control drawer or inside face of the vault door).
Part 2: Includes a sealable envelope/pocket. It holds the classified combination record and is marked at the highest classification level authorized for the container.
Part 2A: A tear-off tab that records the actual combination (dial turns and stops). This is inserted into the Part 2 envelope.

The form provides dedicated fields for:

Area or Post, Building, and Room Number (if applicable).
Activity (Division, Branch, Section, or Office).
Container Number.
Manufacturer & Type/Class of Container.
Manufacturer & Type/Model of Lock.
Serial Number of Lock.
Combination details (right/left turns and stopping points).
Names, home addresses, and home phone numbers of personnel to contact if the container is found open/unattended.
Date the combination was changed.

Note: Use only the official pre-printed carbonless SF 700 form. Photocopies or generic versions do not provide the required multi-part security features.

How to Complete the SF Form 700 (Step-by-Step)?

Fill out Part 1 and Part 2A completely, following the printed instructions on the form.
Detach Part 1 and attach it securely (using tape or a magnetic holder) to the inside of the security container’s control drawer or the inside face of the vault/secure room door.
Mark Parts 2 and 2A with the highest classification level of information authorized for storage in the container (e.g., SECRET or TOP SECRET).
Record the combination on Part 2A, insert it into the envelope on Part 2, and seal it.
Store Part 2 (the sealed classified envelope) in a separate security container or centralized repository authorized for equal or higher classification. Many organizations keep these with the security manager.
For Part 1 (which contains PII), seal it in a separate opaque envelope marked “Security Container Information” and store it according to agency procedures. Protect the PII appropriately.

Always update and replace the form whenever the combination changes. Destroy old forms using approved classified destruction methods (e.g., per NSA Evaluated Products List).

Pro Tip: Combinations should primarily be memorized. Written records exist only as a backup for authorized personnel.

Storage and Protection Requirements

Part 1 (Unclassified/PII): Sealed in an opaque envelope marked “Security Container Information.” Protect against unauthorized disclosure of personal contact information.
Part 2 (Classified): Stored at the highest classification level of the container’s contents. Declassifies upon change of combination. Use the classification authority block: “Derived From: 32 CFR 2001.80(d)(3), declassify upon change of combination.”
The form must be readily available for emergency response while remaining properly safeguarded.

Agencies often maintain a central repository for all SF 700 Part 2 forms under the security manager’s control.

Who Needs the SF 700?

DoD military, civilian, and contractor personnel responsible for classified storage containers.
Any U.S. government activity or agency using GSA-approved security containers, vaults, or secure rooms for classified information.
Security managers, facility security officers (FSOs), and container custodians.

It applies to both fixed facilities and certain deployable or temporary setups where classified material is stored.

How to Obtain the Official SF 700 Form?

U.S. Government departments and agencies can order the form through GSA Global Supply:

NSN: 7540-01-214-5372
Order online at GSA Advantage or by calling (800) 525-8027 using a government purchase card or Activity Address Code (AAC).
Government contractors typically need their sponsoring agency to place the order.

The current revision date is 04/2001 (prescribed by NARA/ISOO under 32 CFR 2003).

Download Links (for reference/instructions; official physical forms must be ordered for use):

For training and examples, refer to resources from the Center for Development of Security Excellence (CDSE) or your agency’s security office.

Best Practices and Common Pitfalls

Update the form immediately after every combination change.
Never store the actual combination inside the same container it protects (except as authorized on the form).
Ensure contact information is current so responders can reach personnel quickly.
During container inspections or moves, verify SF 700 completion alongside SF 702 (Security Container Check Sheet).
Destroy obsolete SF 700 forms using approved methods for their classification level.

Proper use of the SF 700 supports overall compliance with 32 CFR Part 2001 (Classified National Security Information) and DoD/Intelligence Community security directives. It reduces risk, speeds emergency response, and demonstrates due diligence during security audits.

For agency-specific guidance, consult your Security Manager, Facility Security Officer, or reference DoDM 5200.01, Volume 3. Questions about implementation should go through official channels.

This article is for informational purposes and does not replace official policy or training. Always follow your organization’s security standard operating procedures (SOPs) and current regulations.

Keywords: SF 700, SF Form 700, Security Container Information, GSA safe combination form, DoD classified container, SF700 instructions, how to fill SF 700, security container record.