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81--SUPPORT,SHIPPING AND S

DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.TROOP SUPPORT CONSTRUCTION & EQUIPMENT.DLA TROOP SUPPORT · Response deadline: Mon, 09 Nov 2026

What the government is buying

DLA Troop Support is soliciting for supplies falling under Federal Supply Classification 81, which covers containers, packaging, and packing supplies—with the specific item description listed as "SUPPORT, SHIPPING AND S" (shipping support equipment or supplies). The work relates to NAICS 332439, the classification for Other Metal Container Manufacturing. This NAICS covers establishments primarily engaged in manufacturing metal containers such as cans, pails, drums, and similar products from purchased metal.

Metal container manufacturing for defense applications typically involves producing ruggedized containers designed for military logistics: shipping cases, ammunition containers, medical supply containers, or other specialized metal packaging that meets military specifications for durability, stackability, and environmental resistance. These containers must often comply with strict DLA standards for interchangeability and performance in varied climates.

Key facts

Who can bid

This procurement is full and open competition with no set-aside restriction, meaning any responsible offeror—large or small business—may submit a bid. However, given the NAICS 332439 and typical DLA supply requirements, the most competitive bidders will likely be:

• Small manufacturers in metal container fabrication with experience in military-specification work
• Value-added resellers who can source and certify compliant containers to DLA standards
• Businesses with acceptable SAM.gov registration and active status at time of award
• Firms able to meet any Buy American Act or Trade Agreements Act requirements that may apply to this commodity

Small businesses should verify their size standard for NAICS 332439 (500 employees) and confirm their representations in SAM are current.

How to put together a competitive bid

For DLA supply contracts in metal containers, focus on these elements:

Technical compliance: DLA typically incorporates military or federal specifications by reference. Obtain and review all cited specifications—commonly MIL-STD or ASTM standards for material gauge, sealing, corrosion resistance, and dimensional tolerances. Non-compliant bids are non-responsive.

Past performance: Document any prior DLA, military, or comparable commercial container contracts. Include delivery ratings, defect rates, and on-time performance metrics.

Pricing strategy: DLA supply solicitations often use automated tools or evaluate against historical prices. Research comparable awards on FPDS or USASpending.gov to benchmark. Factor in raw material volatility—steel and aluminum prices affect this NAICS significantly.

Quality assurance: Identify your proposed quality system (ISO 9001, AS9100, or equivalent). Describe inspection processes, lot traceability, and corrective action procedures.

Small business advantages: Even without a set-aside, highlight any small business, veteran-owned, HUBZone, or other socioeconomic certifications in your proposal—these may factor into source selection criteria or subcontracting plans if applicable.

Next steps

Access the full solicitation document on SAM.gov using solicitation number SPE8ED27T0172. The complete requirements, specifications, packaging instructions, delivery schedule, and evaluation criteria appear only in the official solicitation files. Note the firm response deadline of November 9, 2026—DLA typically does not accept late submissions. Register or update your SAM.gov entity record before preparing your offer, as an active registration is mandatory for award.

View the official notice on SAM.gov →