38-Day Dry Cargo Time Charter
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Department of the Navy, Military Sealift Command (MSC) Norfolk, is soliciting proposals for a 38-day Dry Cargo Time Charter under a Firm Fixed-Price contract. This Total Small Business Set-Aside requires a self-sustaining vessel capable of transporting a minimum of 600 TEUs with HAZMAT compatibility. Proposals are due Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at 10:00 AM Eastern Time.
Scope of Work
This requirement is for one U.S. or foreign flag, self-sustaining vessel to perform a dry cargo time charter. The vessel must be capable of carrying a minimum of 600 TEUs and satisfy all applicable regulatory HAZMAT compatibility and segregation requirements for Hazard Classes 1, 2, and 9. Key vessel specifications include a maximum Length Overall (LOA) of 1,000 ft / 305 m, a maximum laden draft of 31.5 ft / 9.6 m, and a minimum laden speed of 13 knots. The vessel must be fully bunkered and include a minimum of two supercargo. Specific requirements for lashing gear, spreader bar, segregation, self-sustaining capabilities, Certificate of Inspection (COI), and a Document of Compliance for Dangerous Goods are also mandated. A detailed stow plan, including trim and stability values, is required.
Contract & Timeline
- Contract Type: Firm Fixed-Price Time Charter
- Solicitation Number: N3220526R6090
- Set-Aside: Total Small Business Set-Aside (FAR 19.5), NAICS Code: 483111
- Charter Period: Approximately 38 days
- Laydays: Commencing June 23, 2026, and cancelling July 07, 2026
- Delivery Location: Apra Harbor, Guam (NMI)
- Redelivery Location: Military Ocean Terminal Concord, CA (USA)
- Offer Due Date: Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at 10:00 AM Eastern Time
- Published Date: May 18, 2026
Submission & Evaluation
Offers must be submitted signed and dated, including at least a ship name, a price, and a signature. Proposals will be evaluated based on the value of the charter hire rate(s), price for fuel, and other pricing elements, ensuring the proposed price(s) are fair and reasonable. Fuel calculations will be based on specific underway and in-port days with defined speeds and consumption rates. The evaluation will follow a Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA) approach, with consideration for VISA priority and domestic shipyard usage if DFARS 252.247-7026 is included. Technical capability and price are key evaluation factors. No JPEG files are permitted in submissions.
Key Considerations
Bidders must account for labor costs as outlined in Wage Determination No. 2019-0288, Revision No. 25, which specifies minimum wage rates and fringe benefits for deep sea vessel occupations, including Health & Welfare, paid vacation, and holidays. This determination applies to coastal U.S. ports and the Outer Continental Shelf. Fuel costs should be calculated using the provided metrics, including MGO pricing at $1,500.83 per metric ton (SEACARD Open Market). Offerors are encouraged to submit proposals as soon as possible due to potential email delays. The Red Sea, Bab Al-Mandeb Straits, and Gulf of Aden are designated imminent danger pay locations. Payment will be made via ERP DFAS-CL, with electronic invoices submitted through Wide Area Work Flow (WAWF).
Contact Information
For questions, contact Brandon Page at brandon.a.page.civ@us.navy.mil or 564-226-1239.