53--PACKING WITH RETAINER
DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.DLA LAND.DLA LAND COLUMBUS.DLA WEAPONS SUPPORT · Response deadline: Thu, 12 Nov 2026
What the government is buying
The Defense Logistics Agency's Land Armaments division is seeking packing with retainer components. These are typically specialized packaging items used to secure, protect, and transport military equipment—often weapons systems, spare parts, or sensitive materiel that requires stabilized positioning during handling and shipment. Retainers in this context generally refer to mechanical or structural elements that hold contents firmly in place, preventing movement, vibration damage, or environmental exposure.
This procurement falls under Federal Supply Classification (FSC) 53, which covers hardware and abrasives—but more specifically relates to packaging and packing supplies within the DLA's supply chain operations. DLA Weapons Support at Columbus manages sustainment for Army weapons systems, so these packing components likely support field-level maintenance, depot repair, or original equipment distribution.
Key facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | Department of Defense – Defense Logistics Agency (DLA Land, DLA Weapons Support, Columbus) |
| Notice type | Combined Synopsis/Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | SPE7LX27U0356 |
| NAICS | 339991 |
| Set-aside | Small Business Set Aside - Total |
| Response deadline | November 12, 2026 |
| Place of performance | Not specified in metadata (see the solicitation) |
Who can bid
This contract is 100% set aside for small business, meaning only qualified small businesses may submit offers. The relevant NAICS code 339991 covers "Gasket, Packing, and Sealing Device Manufacturing," with a Small Business Administration size standard typically based on employee count—see the solicitation for the applicable threshold.
Eligible bidders should be:
- Registered in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) with active status
- Small business certified for NAICS 339991 in SAM
- Capable of meeting DLA's quality and delivery requirements for military-grade packing components
Manufacturers with experience in industrial sealing, gasketing, or custom packaging for demanding environments (temperature extremes, chemical exposure, shock/vibration) are well-positioned. Non-manufacturers may bid if they can demonstrate ability to supply compliant products, though DLA typically prefers sources with established supply chains for FSC 53 items.
How to put together a competitive bid
Understand the technical requirements. Packing with retainer for weapons support demands precise specifications for material compatibility, dimensional tolerances, and performance under stress. Request the detailed specification from DLA—likely a military standard (MIL-PRF or MIL-DTL document)—and verify your product matches exactly or qualify any deviations.
Demonstrate past performance. DLA evaluates reliability heavily. Document comparable deliveries to DLA, other military customers, or similarly regulated industries (aerospace, nuclear, oil and gas). Include delivery metrics and quality acceptance rates.
Price strategically. DLA Land uses automated procurement tools and may evaluate on price alone for simplified acquisitions, or apply a tradeoff methodology for more complex buys. Research historical pricing for comparable SPE7 line items on USAspending.gov. Factor in DLA's strict payment terms and potential Prompt Payment Act benefits.
Verify your supply chain. Retainer components may require specific metals, elastomers, or composite materials subject to Buy American Act or specialty metals restrictions. Confirm sourcing compliance before quoting.
Prepare to deliver fast. DLA Weapons Support prioritizes weapons system readiness; lead time may be a rated factor. State realistic delivery schedules and your surge capacity.
Next steps
Read the complete solicitation at SAM.gov using solicitation number SPE7LX27U0356. The full document contains the detailed specification, quantity, delivery requirements, evaluation criteria, and any amendments. Note the firm response deadline of November 12, 2026—DLA typically does not accept late submissions. Submit questions through SAM.gov's messaging function before any Q&A deadline specified in the solicitation.
View the official notice on SAM.gov →