23-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 through a Sources Sought Notice (SSN) for a 23-day Dry Cargo Time Charter. This Request for Information (RFI) seeks U.S. and foreign flag, self-sustaining vessels capable of transporting approximately 150 TEUs of containerized ammunition. Responses are due by February 19, 2026.
Scope of Work
The MSC Strategic Sealift Program Office requires vessels that can:
- Carry a minimum of 150 TEUs of containerized ammunition.
- Satisfy regulatory HAZMAT compatibility and segregation for ammunition hazard classes/divisions 1.1-1.4.
- Accommodate a maximum TEU gross weight of 35,000 lbs and an average of 25,000 lbs.
- Deliver cargo to Souda Bay, Greece, and redeliver the vessel at Nordenham, Germany.
- Operate for a charter period of 23 days, with laydays commencing/canceling on May 25, 2026.
- Accommodate a minimum of two supercargo.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI)
- Charter Period: 23 days
- Set-Aside: None specified (market research to identify potential sources, including small businesses)
- Response Due: Prior to 1200 hours Eastern Time, Thursday, February 19, 2026
- Published: February 13, 2026
Submission & Evaluation
Interested parties are requested to provide:
- Name and complete description of vessel(s).
- Proposed layday(s) and confirmation of supercargo accommodation.
- Daily charter hire rate and any delivery/redelivery bonuses.
- Fuel consumption rate (underway & inport working).
- Company's name, Unique Entity Identifier (UEI), and business size (large businesses should provide subcontracting opportunities).
- Any other pertinent questions or comments. Responses will be used for market research to determine industry capabilities and potential small business participation under NAICS code 483111 (Water Transportation).
Additional Notes
This RFI is for planning purposes only and does not constitute an offer or commit the government to pay for any costs incurred in preparation or submission of responses, nor does it guarantee a future contract award.