Doniphan and Salem Drop Ceilings Installation
AGRICULTURE, DEPARTMENT OF.FOREST SERVICE.USDA-FS, CSA EAST 13 · Response deadline: Wed, 21 Oct 2026
What the government is buying
The USDA Forest Service is soliciting bids for drop ceiling installation work at two Federal locations: Doniphan and Salem, both in Missouri. Drop ceiling installations—also called suspended ceilings—are common in commercial and government buildings, providing overhead coverage for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems while allowing access for maintenance. This type of work typically includes installing grid systems, ceiling panels, and associated trim, and may involve coordination with existing building systems.
Key facts
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | USDA Forest Service, CSA East 13 |
| Notice type | Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | 12445527Q0003 |
| NAICS | 238390 — Other Building Finishing Contractors |
| Set-aside | Small Business Set Aside - Total |
| Response deadline | October 21, 2026, 2:00 PM CT |
| Place of performance | Salem, MO |
Who can bid
This opportunity is reserved for small businesses under NAICS 238390, which covers finishing trade contractors including ceiling installation work. To qualify, your business must meet the Small Business Administration's size standard for this NAICS code—see the solicitation for the specific employee or revenue threshold. You must also be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) with active registration through the contract performance period.
If you are a certified HUBZone, service-disabled veteran-owned, women-owned, or 8(a) small business, you may still bid under this general small-business set-aside. The government will not accept bids from large businesses or non-compliant small businesses for this solicitation.
How to put together a competitive bid
Understand the scope before pricing. Drop ceiling projects vary significantly based on grid type (exposed or concealed), panel materials (mineral fiber, metal, or specialty acoustic panels), ceiling height, and integration with existing HVAC, lighting, or fire suppression systems. See the solicitation for exact quantities, specifications, and whether asbestos abatement or testing is required for the existing ceiling system.
Verify your past performance references. Federal evaluators typically assess relevant project experience. Prepare documentation of comparable commercial or government drop ceiling installations, including project values, completion dates, and client contact information. Performance at other federal facilities or in occupied buildings is particularly relevant.
Assess labor and logistics. The Salem, Missouri location may affect your labor sourcing and material delivery costs. Factor in travel, lodging, and per diem if your crew is not locally based. Confirm whether the Forest Service requires work during specific hours to minimize disruption to facility operations.
Review bonding and insurance requirements. Construction-related solicitations often require performance and payment bonds. See the solicitation for thresholds and surety requirements. Verify your bonding capacity before committing to bid.
Submit through the correct platform. Most USDA Forest Service solicitations use SAM.gov or a specified electronic bidding system. Ensure your submission includes all required forms—typically SF 1449, representations and certifications, and any small-business documentation—before the October 21, 2026 deadline.
Next steps
Download the full solicitation package for 12445527Q0003 on SAM.gov to obtain detailed specifications, drawings, evaluation criteria, and contractual terms. Note the firm response deadline of October 21, 2026, at 2:00 PM Central Time—late submissions are typically rejected without exception. Register or verify your SAM.gov account status immediately if you have not done so recently, as registration processing can take several business days.
View the official notice on SAM.gov →