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81--CONTAINER,FREIGHT,UTIL

DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.TROOP SUPPORT CONSTRUCTION & EQUIPMENT.DLA TROOP SUPPORT · Response deadline: Thu, 15 Oct 2026

What the government is buying

The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Troop Support is soliciting quotes for freight and utility containers under classification code 81. This category covers shipping containers and similar enclosure equipment used for transporting and storing materials, equipment, and supplies. DLA Troop Support manages the procurement and supply chain for items that sustain military operations worldwide, including containers essential for logistics and mobility operations.

Freight containers in this context typically include standardized metal enclosures designed for intermodal transport—by truck, rail, or ship—as well as specialized utility containers adapted for military purposes. These may range from commercial-grade ISO containers to modified versions with features for security, climate control, or specific cargo types. The military relies heavily on containerization for efficient movement of goods to domestic bases and overseas deployed forces.

See the solicitation for specific quantities, sizes, technical specifications, and delivery requirements.

Key facts

NAICS 332439 corresponds to "Other Metal Container Manufacturing," an industry classification that includes manufacturers of metal shipping containers, cargo containers, and similar products not classified elsewhere.

Who can bid

This opportunity is reserved for small businesses exclusively under a total small business set-aside. To qualify, your business must:

• Meet the Small Business Administration's size standard for NAICS 332439 (currently 1,000 employees for this classification)
• Be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) with active status
• Have any required North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) codes included in your SAM profile
• Be classified as a small business concern under SBA regulations

No portion of this contract is available to large businesses or other socioeconomic set-aside programs (such as 8(a), HUBZone, or service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses) unless the procurement is further set aside under one of those programs. See the solicitation for any additional eligibility criteria, past performance requirements, or certifications needed.

How to put together a competitive bid

Building a strong quote for DLA container procurements requires attention to several practical elements:

Understand the technical requirements. Container procurements for military use often reference specific standards—potentially including ISO specifications, DLA's own drawings, or MIL-STD requirements. Verify whether the solicitation calls for new manufacture, refurbished units, or either. Confirm dimensions, capacity ratings, material specifications (corrosion-resistant steel, aluminum, etc.), and any required markings or placards.

Price competitively but sustainably. DLA typically awards on lowest price technically acceptable (LPTA) basis for standardized items. Calculate material costs precisely, especially given steel and aluminum price volatility. Factor in welding, surface treatment, testing, and quality assurance. Include realistic freight costs if delivery terms require shipping to government destinations or depots.

Demonstrate production capacity. For container manufacturing, DLA may evaluate your ability to meet surge requirements or sustained delivery schedules. Be prepared to describe your fabrication equipment, throughput, and any subcontractor relationships.

Address packaging and preservation. Military contracts often specify levels of preservation for storage and shipment; noncompliance can result in rejection.

Submit through proper channels. As a combined synopsis/solicitation, this notice likely allows direct quotation submission without a separate request for proposal phase. Follow submission instructions exactly regarding format, electronic signatures, and required representations.

Next steps

1. Access the full solicitation immediately at SAM.gov using solicitation number SPE8ED27Q0033. The complete document contains the only authoritative technical specifications, quantity, delivery schedule, and terms.

2. Note the deadline: Quotations are due October 15, 2026—six days from the October 9, 2026 posting date. This extremely compressed timeline demands prompt action to review requirements, verify your SAM registration, and prepare your response.

3. Confirm your SAM profile includes NAICS 332439 and reflects active small business status before attempting to bid.

View the official notice on SAM.gov →