81--CONTAINER,PORTABLE DRA
DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.TROOP SUPPORT CONSTRUCTION & EQUIPMENT.DLA TROOP SUPPORT · Response deadline: Thu, 12 Nov 2026
What the government is buying
The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Troop Support is procuring portable draft containers under NAICS 332439—Other Metal Container Manufacturing. This category covers establishments primarily engaged in manufacturing metal containers such as barrels, drums, cans, pails, and similar items. Portable draft containers in military usage typically refer to liquid-holding vessels designed for field deployment, enabling troops to transport and dispense beverages, water, or fuel in austere environments.
DLA Troop Support manages the procurement of subsistence, clothing and textiles, medical supplies, construction and equipment, and other sustainment items for U.S. military forces worldwide. Container procurement supports field feeding, hydration, and operational logistics across deployed environments.
What specific capacity, material (stainless steel, aluminum), closure type, lining requirements, or military specifications apply to this purchase are not stated in the available metadata. Contractors must see the solicitation for complete technical requirements.
Key facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Troop Support |
| Notice type | Combined Synopsis/Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | SPE8ED27T0189 |
| NAICS | 332439 — Other Metal Container Manufacturing |
| Set-aside | None (unrestricted/full and open competition) |
| Response deadline | November 12, 2026 |
| Place of performance | Not specified in metadata |
Who can bid
This solicitation is unrestricted—any qualified business, regardless of size or socioeconomic status, may submit a bid. There is no small-business set-aside, no HUBZone preference, no SDVOSB or WOSB restriction.
Small businesses registered in SAM.gov with active Cage Codes may compete directly against large manufacturers. Because NAICS 332439 carries a size standard (typically 500 or 1,000 employees for this category; verify current thresholds at SBA.gov), businesses above the SBA size standard for this code are considered "other than small" and must compete without small-business advantages.
Foreign contractors may participate if they meet DLA's domestic sourcing, Buy American Act, and Trade Agreements Act requirements—see the solicitation for applicable country-of-origin restrictions and waivers.
How to put together a competitive bid
For metal container manufacturing competitions, winning bids typically demonstrate:
Technical compliance. Military containers often require adherence to specific performance specifications (such as burst strength, drop testing, chemical resistance, or NSF/FDA compliance for food contact). See the solicitation for cited specifications—likely MIL-STD, ASTM, or DLA's own item descriptions. Obtain all referenced standards before estimating engineering and material costs.
Manufacturing capacity and past performance. DLA evaluates production lead times and historical delivery performance. Be prepared to document your facility's throughput, welding or forming capabilities, quality certifications (ISO 9001, if required), and any prior government contracts for similar items.
Pricing strategy. Unrestricted competitions against large manufacturers like Ball Corporation, Crown Holdings, or BWAY often hinge on unit price. Analyze DLA's historical contract data at SAM.gov and FPDS.gov for similar NSNs or item names to benchmark. Consider the Defense Priorities and Allocations System (DPAS) rating if applicable—expedited delivery may justify premium pricing or, conversely, efficient production may support aggressive pricing.
Shipping and distribution. DLA requires delivery to specified depots or direct to units. Incorporate freight costs; metal containers are heavy and bulky, making logistics a significant cost driver.
Next steps
Read the complete solicitation at SAM.gov using solicitation number SPE8ED27T0189. The synopsis posted November 1, 2026 contains only summary information; full specifications, quantities, packaging requirements, and evaluation criteria reside in the attached solicitation documents.
Note the deadline: Responses are due November 12, 2026. Allow adequate time for SAM.gov registration verification, technical review, and submission through the DLA electronic procurement system.
Contact the contracting officer if the documents are unclear on container specifications, inspection procedures, or delivery requirements. Late questions risk inadequate time for clarification before the deadline.
View the official notice on SAM.gov →