90-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 for a 90-day dry cargo time charter. They are seeking information on U.S. and foreign flag Roll-on/Roll-off (RO/RO) vessels capable of transporting military cargo, including helicopters, tracked/wheeled vehicles, and breakbulk. This is for future requirements development. Responses are due by May 14, 2026.
Purpose & Scope
This Sources Sought Notice (SSN) is for market research only and is not a solicitation for contract. MSC aims to gather information on the price and availability of suitable RO/RO vessels to support potential future military cargo transport needs. The charter period is approximately 90 days, with two additional 90-day option periods. The delivery and redelivery port is Corpus Christi, Texas, with laydays commencing/canceling on September 17, 2026.
Key Requirements
Interested parties should provide details on vessels capable of carrying specific military cargo, including a CH47 helicopter, a recovery vehicle, and an Abrams tank. Required vessel information includes:
- Vessel name and description
- Daily charter hire rate and any bonuses
- Fuel consumption rates
- Militarily useful square feet of deck space (with >7'5" clearance)
- Vessel ramp door and main deck height
- Supercargo accommodation capacity
- Confirmation of layday availability
Submission Details
Responses must be submitted via email to DAVID.K.HAMILTON19.CIV@US.NAVY.MIL by 10:00 AM Eastern Time on Tuesday, May 14, 2026. Submissions should also include business size and Unique Entity Identifier (UEI). Large businesses are requested to provide details regarding possible sub-contracting opportunities.
Eligibility & NAICS
The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code for this service is 483111 (Marine Charter For Things), with a small business size standard of 1,050 employees. Respondents should indicate if they are a small business. This is a market research effort; no formal set-aside is designated at this stage.
Contact Information
Primary Contact: David Hamilton (david.k.hamilton19.civ@us.navy.mil, 757-443-5896) Secondary Contact: Christopher Tomlin (christopher.tomlin1@navy.mil, 757-341-5427)
Timeline
- Published Date: May 8, 2026
- Response Due Date: May 14, 2026