Open federal opportunities

81--DRUM,SHIPPING AND STOR

DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.TROOP SUPPORT CONSTRUCTION & EQUIPMENT.DLA TROOP SUPPORT · Response deadline: Thu, 29 Oct 2026

What the government is buying

The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Troop Support is soliciting offers for drums used for shipping and storage. This is a supply procurement for industrial containers that fall under Federal Supply Classification 81, which covers containers, packaging, and packing supplies. Drums in this category are typically steel or fiber containers used by the Department of Defense for transporting and storing various materials, including chemicals, petroleum products, dry goods, and hazardous materials.

DLA Troop Support manages the supply chain for food, clothing, textiles, medicines, medical equipment, and construction and equipment items for all military services. These drums support military logistics operations worldwide, requiring compliance with strict defense specifications for durability, sealing, and material compatibility.

Key facts

Who can bid

This opportunity is set aside exclusively for small businesses under the Small Business Set-Aside - Total program. To qualify, your business must:

• Meet the NAICS 332439 (Other Metal Container Manufacturing) size standard; the U.S. Small Business Administration sets employee-based or revenue-based thresholds for this code—verify your status at SAM.gov
• Be registered and active in the System for Award Management (SAM) with current registration
• Have the SBA's small business status properly represented in your SAM profile

Manufacturer or non-manufacturer: Under NAICS 332439, you may bid as a manufacturer that produces drums or as a non-manufacturer that supplies drums made by another small business, provided you meet the applicable non-manufacturer rule requirements. Check the solicitation for any specific source restrictions or domestic content requirements.

How to put together a competitive bid

Understand DLA's technical requirements. DLA drum procurements typically reference military or federal specifications (such as MIL-DTL or PPP-C standards) for dimensions, materials, closure types, lining requirements, and performance testing. Obtain the referenced specifications early—they may be available through the DLA document retrieval system for a fee.

Confirm your production capacity and delivery capability. The solicitation may specify delivery schedules to DLA depots or direct-to-customer locations. Evaluate whether your facility can meet surge requirements or whether you need to arrange subcontracting relationships.

Price competitively for the DLA market. DLA uses automated procurement tools and evaluates offers primarily on price for established need items. Research historical pricing for similar drum awards through the DLA Internet Bid Board System (DIBBS) or USAspending.gov.

Address quality assurance and past performance. DLA expects consistent product quality. If you have previous DLA or federal supply schedule performance, highlight your acceptance rates and any quality awards. First-time DLA suppliers should demonstrate comparable commercial or other government experience.

Submit through designated channels. DLA Troop Support typically requires offers through DIBBS for construction and equipment commodities. Ensure your account is active and you understand the electronic bid submission process before deadline day.

Next steps

Read the full solicitation on SAM.gov by searching solicitation number SPE8E927T0243. The complete notice will contain the detailed specification, packaging requirements, delivery schedule, and all instructions for preparation and submission of offers. Note the firm response deadline of October 29, 2026—DLA typically does not accept late offers in announced competitive procurements.

View the official notice on SAM.gov →