Pelican cases are developed by Pelican Products. They are molded plastic containers that seal by having an air-tight and water tight gasket. Pelican cases incorporate a barometric relief valve composed of Gore-tex in order to avoid barotrauma to the case, while in transport, or when the air pressure in the atmosphere changes.

Most Pelican cases conform to US Military, NATO, IEC, and ATA specifications for waterproofing, stacking, impact, and durability. Standards that Pelican cases comply with include MIL-STD C4150-J for waterproofing, IEC IP67 rating indicating total sealing against dust particles and sealing against water immersion to 1 metre, in addition to ATA 300 rating showing compliance with Air Transport Association requirements for durability in shipping and delivery. Pelican cases include a life time guarantee.

In Europe, Pelican Products these are sold as Peli cases because the name "Pelican" is trade marked by a different organization.