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, PA has issued a Solicitation for Specialized Shipping and Storage Containers (PSC 8145). This opportunity is a Total Small Business Set-Aside and requires the manufacture of aluminum containers according to specific drawings and standards, including a mandatory First Article Test (FAT). The closing date for proposals has been extended to February 27, 2026.
Scope of Work
The requirement is for the manufacture of aluminum container shells, specifically to Container Research Corporation drawing number (05259) 579E001, Revision LATEST, and all referenced specifications. Key requirements include:
- Material: Aluminum container shell.
- Finish: Electrodeposited alkaline Zinc-Nickel Alloy (ASTM B 841 Class 1, Type B, Grade 3).
- Components: Specific shock mounts are required; no substitutions without written permission.
- Identification: Unique Identification (UID) marking on nameplates, including data matrix format and alphanumeric serial numbers obtained from NAVICP.
- Welding: Must meet AWS D1.1, D1.2, D1.3, D1.6, or MIL-W-22248 standards, with detailed controls for materials, cleaning, and deoxidizing.
- Desiccant: One-third unit of MIL-D-3464, Type II desiccant per cubic foot of interior volume.
- Manufacturing Aids: Contractor is solely responsible for providing all necessary fixtures, jigs, dies, and special tooling.
- Packaging: MIL-STD 2073 applies.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Solicitation
- Set-Aside: Total Small Business Set-Aside (Deviation 2020-O0008)
- Response Due: February 27, 2026, 6:00 PM UTC
- Published: January 23, 2026
First Article Test (FAT) Requirements
A First Article Test (FAT) is mandatory. The contractor must deliver one unit of CAGE (05259) Part Number 579E001 within 120 calendar days of contract award. The Government estimates the FAT cost at $10,000, which will be added to offerors' prices for solicitation purposes.
- Testing: Includes visual/dimensional inspection, initial and final leak tests (1.00 +/- 0.05 psig), an 18-inch free fall drop test, and a form and fit check (Government provides the item).
- Waiver Option: Offerors may request a waiver of FAT requirements if they have previously furnished identical production articles accepted by the Government or OEM within three years, using the same production location and processes. Two prices (with/without FAT) must be submitted if a waiver is requested.
- Costs: All costs and responsibilities related to FAT submission, shipment, and additional tests (if disapproved) are borne by the contractor.
Additional Notes
This item requires engineering source approval. New manufacturers must contact the buyer for Source Approval Request procedures. Pre-award surveys and post-award conferences may be required for new manufacturers. For drawing access, contact the buyer via email. Contact: CASEY.STOCK@DLA.MIL, 215-737-0543.