81--SHIPPING AND STORAG
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 Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Aviation at Philadelphia is soliciting proposals for the procurement of Specialized Shipping and Storage Containers (PSC 8145). This opportunity is a Total Small Business Set-Aside and requires adherence to stringent manufacturing, testing, and quality assurance standards, including a mandatory First Article Test (FAT). Proposals are due by March 30, 2026.
Scope of Work
This solicitation covers the manufacturing, testing, and inspection of specialized aluminum containers. Key requirements include:
- Material & Construction: Aluminum container shells, specific desiccant placement, crevice sealing (MIL-S-81733 or equivalent), and electrodeposited Zinc-Nickel Alloy finish (ASTM B 841 Class 1, Type B, Grade 3) instead of Cadmium plating.
- Shock Mounts: Use of approved shock mounts as listed in the drawing package; no substitutions without written permission.
- Identification: Containers must include a Unique Identification (UID) marking on a nameplate, following Mil-STD-130 latest revision, with serial numbers assigned by NAVICP.
- Welding: Adherence to AWS D1.1, D1.2, D1.3, and D1.6 standards for various materials, with detailed work instructions, material control, cleaning, and deoxidizing procedures.
- Quality Assurance: Includes a mandatory First Article Test (FAT), covering dimensional, form, fit, function, and leak tests. The FAT cost is estimated at $15,000, which will be added to offerors' prices for solicitation purposes. Offerors may request a waiver of FAT requirements under specific conditions (previous production within 3 years, same facility, and certification).
- Packaging: MIL-STD 2073 packaging applies.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Solicitation
- Set-Aside: Total Small Business Set-Aside (FAR 19.5)
- Response Due: March 30, 2026, 6:00 PM EST
- Published: February 26, 2026
Evaluation
This opportunity emphasizes strict compliance with technical specifications and quality standards. New manufacturers may require engineering source approval, pre-award surveys, and post-award conferences. All costs and responsibilities related to FAT submission, shipment, and testing are borne by the contractor. The government will notify contractors of FAT approval, conditional approval, or disapproval within 150 calendar days.
Additional Notes
For drawing access or Source Approval Request procedures, contact the buyer. The contact for this opportunity is Rachel Raucheisen (RACHEL.RAUCHEISEN@DLA.MIL, 215-737-7063).