DRY CARGO VOYAGE 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), Strategic Sealift Program Office, has issued a Sources Sought Notice (SSN) for market research to identify potential sources for a Dry Cargo Voyage Charter. This opportunity seeks U.S. Flag, Jones Act compliant, self-sustaining vessels or ABS certified tug and barge units capable of transporting military cargo, including containerized ammunition, from Naval Magazine, Indian Island, WA to Valdez, AK. Responses are due by February 2, 2026.
Scope of Work
MSC is seeking vessels or tug/barge units capable of carrying a minimum of 50 TEUs of containerized ammunition, satisfying regulatory HAZMAT compatibility and segregation requirements. The cargo includes military items such as tracked and wheeled vehicles, breakbulk, and various Ammunition Hazard Class/Division types. Maximum TEU gross weight is 36,500 lbs, with an average of 19,500 lbs. The mission involves a load port at Naval Magazine, Indian Island, WA, and a discharge port at Valdez, AK, with layday commencing and canceling on April 5, 2026, and a laytime of 2 days SSHEX. Special requirements include a certified spreader bar (37,000 lbs+ capacity) and a container handling forklift (37,000 lbs+ lifting capacity). The contractor will be responsible for strict segregation of loaded munition containers.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research (This is for information only and does not constitute a commitment to award a contract.)
- Product Service Code: V124 (Marine Charter For Things)
- NAICS Code: 483111 (Water Transportation), Small Business Size Standard: 1,050 employees
- Response Due: February 2, 2026, by 1000 hours Eastern Time
- Published: January 26, 2026
Submission & Evaluation
Interested parties are requested to provide:
- Name and description of vessel(s) or tug/barge units.
- Confirmation of cargo capacity (minimum 50 TEUs).
- Confirmation of certified spreader bar and forklift capabilities.
- Lump-sum charter rate and daily demurrage rate.
- Company information (name, contact, small business standing, Unique Entity Identifier).
- Any pertinent questions or comments. Responses will be used for market research to determine potential sources.
Additional Notes
Vessels must be U.S. Flag and Jones Act compliant. Respondents should indicate their small business concern status. Point of Contact: David Hamilton, david.k.hamilton19.civ@us.navy.mil.