13-day Dry Cargo Time Charter
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Department of the Navy's Military Sealift Command (MSC) is conducting market research via a Sources Sought Notice for a 13-day Dry Cargo Time Charter. This effort aims to identify U.S. and foreign flag, self-sustaining vessels capable of transporting military cargo from Subic Bay, Philippines, to Darwin, Australia. The information gathered will assist MSC in developing future requirements. Responses are due by April 17, 2026.
Purpose & Scope
This is a Sources Sought Notice (SSN), not a solicitation, issued by the Military Sealift Command (MSC) for market research purposes. MSC seeks to understand the price and availability of suitable vessels for military cargo transport. The primary objective is to gather information to inform future requirements for a potential charter.
Key Requirements
- Vessel Type: U.S. and foreign flag, self-sustaining vessels.
- Cargo: Military cargo, including tracked and wheeled vehicles, breakbulk, and specifically 8x Kalmar RT240 forklifts. A detailed cargo list is available upon request.
- Route: Delivery at Subic Bay, Philippines, and redelivery at Darwin, Australia.
- Charter Period: Approximately 13 days.
- Laydays: Between May 29, 2026, and June 14, 2026.
Submission & Eligibility
- NAICS Code: 483111 (Marine Charter For Things / Water Transportation Services), with a small business size standard of 1,050 employees.
- Interested parties should provide specific information via email, including vessel details, daily charter hire rates, delivery/redelivery bonuses, fuel consumption, militarily useful deck space, supercargo accommodation, and business size (indicating small business status if applicable). Large businesses are asked to detail potential sub-contracting opportunities.
- Responses are not considered offers, and the government will not reimburse for preparation costs.
Deadlines & Contact
- Response Due: Prior to 11:00 AM Eastern Time, Friday, April 17, 2026.
- Primary Contact: ERIC HATCHER, ERIC.N.HATCHER2.CIV@US.NAVY.MIL, (564) 230-3114.