About four weeks are needed until a new packer is able to pack 25 in one day. Now working as a final inspector of parachutes, SPC Perrill notes that packing is very physical. He calculates that each rigger walks a minimum of 2.7 miles each day packing parachutes. Still, despite its strenuous nature, the physical aspect is not the most difficult part of being a packer. Getting motivated and remaining mentally alert receives that distinction.
Mental preparation is an important part of packing because of the repetitive nature of the task.
Different incentives are used to motivate and mentally prepare the packers of the 407th. The 5,000 Club is one of those. A soldier who meets the challenge and joins its ranks is recommended for an Army Commendation Medal. Other incentives involve competitions to determine packer of the month, quarter, and year. To vary their duties, soldiers also rotate between heavy and light pack and among other platoons.