38-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, specifically the Military Sealift Command (MSC) Strategic Sealift Program Office (MSCHQ NORFOLK), is conducting market research through a Sources Sought Notice (SSN) for a 38-day dry cargo time charter. This Request for Information (RFI) aims to identify potential sources for U.S. and foreign flag, self-sustaining vessels capable of transporting containerized ammunition. Responses are due by May 4, 2026.
Scope of Work
The requirement is for vessels capable of carrying a minimum of 600 TEUs of containerized ammunition, adhering to regulatory hazmat compatibility and segregation for various hazard classes/divisions (e.g., 1.1, 1.2G, 1.2.1, 1.2.2, 1.2.3D, 1.3, 1.4, 4.2G, 6.1G, 9S). Maximum TEU gross weight is 41,000 lbs, with an average of 23,000 lbs. The charter period is approximately 38 days, with delivery at Apra Harbor, Guam, and redelivery at Concord, CA. Vessels must accommodate a minimum of two supercargo. Laydays are set for commencing June 16, 2026, and canceling June 29, 2026.
Contract & Timeline
This is a Sources Sought notice for market research purposes; no contract is being awarded at this stage. The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code is 483111 (Water Transportation) with a small business size standard of 1,050 employees.
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Set-Aside: None specified (market research stage)
- Response Due: May 4, 2026, by 1300 hours Eastern Time.
- Published: April 28, 2026.
Submission & Evaluation
Interested parties should provide: vessel name and description, confirmation of supercargo accommodation, daily charter rates, delivery/redelivery bonus (if applicable), fuel consumption rates (underway and inport working), business size (indicating if small business), and details on potential sub-contracting opportunities for large businesses. Responses will inform the government's understanding of industry capabilities and potential small business participation.
Additional Notes
This is an RFI only and not an offer. The government will not pay for costs incurred in preparing or submitting responses. The primary point of contact is Matthew Price at matthew.r.price40.civ@us.navy.mil or (757) 341-3348.