Open federal opportunities

53--SHIM

DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.DLA AVIATION.DLA AV RICHMOND.DLA AVIATION · Response deadline: Tue, 20 Oct 2026

What the government is buying

The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Aviation at Richmond has issued a combined synopsis/solicitation for shims under Federal Supply Classification (FSC) 53. Shims are thin pieces of material used to fill gaps, adjust alignment, or provide support in mechanical assemblies—common applications in aircraft maintenance, engine repair, and other precision equipment serviced by DLA Aviation. DLA Aviation is the primary logistics support provider for military aircraft and related systems, managing the supply chain for spare parts and hardware across the armed services. This acquisition falls under NAICS 332439, which covers "Other Metal Container Manufacturing," though shims themselves are often thin metal pieces that may be manufactured through stamping, machining, or other metalworking processes.

Key facts

Who can bid

This is unrestricted—there is no set-aside program indicated, meaning businesses of any size may compete. Small businesses are eligible and encouraged to bid, but they will compete directly against large businesses and other qualified offerors.

Because NAICS 332439 has a Small Business Administration size standard based on employee count or average annual receipts (see the solicitation or SBA size standards for the specific threshold), your firm should verify it qualifies as small under this NAICS if you intend to use small business contracting preferences on other opportunities. For this specific procurement, however, no such preference applies.

Prospective bidders should be manufacturers or distributors capable of providing shims meeting military or aviation specifications. If you are a non-manufacturer, DLA typically requires submission of the actual manufacturer's name and compliance with Trade Agreements Act requirements. See the solicitation for any specific qualifications, product specifications, or approved sources.

How to put together a competitive bid

Understand the technical requirements. Shims for DLA Aviation typically must meet strict dimensional tolerances, material specifications (often stainless steel, aluminum, or brass alloys), and possibly military or aerospace standards such as AN, MS, or NAS specifications. Request the detailed specification from the solicitation to ensure your product qualifies.

Price competitively for the commercial market. In unrestricted competitions, DLA often evaluates based on lowest price technically acceptable (LPTA) or similar criteria. Research DLA's historical pricing for comparable shims through tools like FPDS or DLA's Internet Bid Board System (DIBBS) if you have prior award data.

Verify your supply chain. If you are not the original manufacturer, confirm your source can meet delivery timelines and provide required certifications. DLA may require material test reports, certificates of conformance, or source inspections.

Register in required systems. Ensure your firm is registered in SAM.gov, has a current CAGE code, and is registered in DLA's DIBBS to submit your quote electronically. DLA Aviation typically requires DIBBS submission for simplified acquisitions.

Review packaging and marking requirements. DLA has specific military packaging standards that can affect your delivered cost—factor these into your pricing.

Next steps

Read the full solicitation on SAM.gov using solicitation number SPE4A727T0583. The complete notice will contain the product description, quantity, delivery schedule, inspection requirements, and exact submission instructions. Note the deadline: responses are due October 20, 2026. Given the seven-day window between posting and deadline, review requirements immediately and submit your quote promptly through the specified electronic system.

View the official notice on SAM.gov →