Forklift for the National Fire Research Lab
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 National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), under the Department of Commerce, is conducting market research through a Sources Sought Notice (SSN) to identify potential providers for a new forklift for its National Fire Research Lab (NFRL) in Gaithersburg, Maryland. This is not a solicitation, but an RFI to determine the appropriate acquisition strategy. Responses are due by March 13, 2026, at 11:00 AM ET.
Scope of Work
NIST requires one new forklift that meets specific technical specifications for the NFRL. Key requirements include:
- Solid pneumatic tires
- 5,000 lb capacity
- LPG fuel
- Side shifter and fork positioner/spreader
- Air ride seat
- Overhead guard height less than 88 inches
- Maximum overall weight less than 10,000 pounds
- Mast extends at least 15 feet, with a maximum lower height less than 88 inches, and 48-inch forks
- One-year manufacturer's warranty
Used, remanufactured, experimental, prototype, or custom items will not be considered. Delivery is F.O.B Destination within 60 days After Receipt of Order (ARO) to NIST, 100 Bureau Drive, Building 301, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-0001.
Information Requested
Interested parties should submit a company summary including:
- Notice ID and Title
- Company name, address, website, and Unique Entity Identifier (UEI)
- Point of contact, phone, and email
- Company size status for NAICS 333924 (Industrial Truck, Tractor, Trailer, and Stacker Machinery Manufacturing)
- Active SAM.gov registration status
- Place of manufacture/origin (US or foreign)
- Ability to comply with FAR clause 52.219-14 (Limitations on Subcontracting) if a small business
- Existing GSA Multiple Award Schedule or other federal contract vehicles.
Submission Instructions
Responses must be submitted via email to hunter.tjugum@nist.gov and lauren.roller@nist.gov by the deadline. Submissions should be in Microsoft Word or PDF, using 11 or 12-point font, and not exceed five pages (excluding cover page or standard commercial pricing sections). Respondents are encouraged to use clear, concise language and avoid excessive marketing.
Additional Notes
This is strictly for market research and planning purposes; it is not a solicitation, and NIST does not intend to award a contract based on responses or pay for information submitted. NIST reserves the right to use non-proprietary information for establishing requirements and may issue a Request for Quote (RFQ) later. No feedback will be provided to respondents. Teaming arrangements must comply with FAR 52.219-14.