DDAA WEAPON SPECIAL PACKAGING INSTRUCTIONS (SPI) BOXES

Questions & Answers / Clarifications

This document provides responses to vendor questions regarding the DDAA SPI Weapon Boxes RFI, clarifying requirements for packaging materials, dimensions, and assembly.

• Dimensions and Figures: Revised schedule of supply provided to address discrepancies in material numbers and figure labeling for SPIs (e.g., AM11826290, AM12976814, AM9390000).
• VCI Tube and Barrier Bags: VCI barrier bags have been omitted from material descriptions. The link for VCI tube information was not functional.
• SPI Kit Interpretation: Confirmed that the requirement is for complete Special Packaging Instruction (SPI) kits, not individual components.
• Product Samples: Product samples are not required at the time of quote submission.
• CLIN 0001 Cushioning: Cushioning must be fiberboard, not foam, as indicated in the revised Schedule of Supply and SPI details. Foam-in-place consistency is acceptable for support pieces if specified in the SPI.
• Order Quantities: The government cannot confirm if order quantities will match historical records or be divided.
• Specific Materials: VCI wrap and MIL-PRF-22019E WRAP are not required. Tape is also not required for SPIs.
• Bore Tubes: Bore tubes are no longer required for SPIs.
• Blocking and Bracing: Requirements for blocking and bracing using fiberboard (e.g., ASTM D4727, DW, GRADE 350/275) have been confirmed as accurate for specific SPIs (AM11826290, AM9390000, AM12976814).

This Q&A document clarifies material specifications, assembly requirements, and omissions, which may affect how vendors prepare their quotations and understand the packaging requirements for the weapon boxes.

Amendment / Modification

• This amendment (0004) to solicitation SP3300-26-Q-0056 is dated March 2, 2026.

• It is not extending the hour and date specified for receipt of offers.

• The amendment includes attached "Question and Answers (1 through 16)".

• Item 14: Description of Amendment/Modification

• The deadline for offer receipt is not extended.

• Bidders are instructed to acknowledge receipt of this amendment.

Questions & Answers / Clarifications

This document provides responses to vendor questions regarding the DDAA SPI Weapon Boxes RFI, clarifying requirements and specifications.

• Dimensions and Figures: Dimensions for Figures 1, 2, and 3 in the solicitation documents were inconsistent with other provided documents (SPI AM11826290, SPI AM12976814). Revised schedules of supply have been issued with updated material numbers. Drawings will be appropriately labeled in updated documents.
• VCI Tube and Barrier Bags: The link for VCI tube and VCI barrier bags was non-functional. The bags have been omitted from the material descriptions.
• SPI Kits: The requirement is confirmed to be for complete Special Packaging Instruction (SPI) kits, including fiberboard boxes and associated packaging materials, in accordance with MIL-STD-2073.
• Product Samples: Submission of product samples with quotations is not required.
• Cushioning Material: For CLIN 0001, the requirement is for fiberboard cushioning, not foam, as indicated in the SPI. Revised schedules of supply will clarify if applicable.
• CLIN Descriptions: Descriptions for CLINs 0001-0004 were noted as identical despite different drawings. Revised schedules of supply have been provided.
• Order Quantities: The government cannot confirm if order quantities will match historical records or be divided into arbitrary amounts at the time of delivery order.

Revised schedules of supply have been issued to address discrepancies in material numbers, figures, and CLIN descriptions. Specific components (barrier bags) have been omitted from material descriptions. The requirement for fiberboard cushioning has been confirmed.

Amendment / Modification

• This amendment (0003) to solicitation SP3300-26-Q-0056, dated 3/2/2026, is issued to provide attached Questions and Answers (1 through 9).

• The document references "Question and Answers (1 through 9) attached" as the description of the amendment.

• The amendment does not explicitly state if proposal deadlines or evaluation factors have been modified, but it does provide clarifications relevant to the solicitation.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is an Excel spreadsheet containing a Schedule of Supplies, detailing the estimated quantities and specifications for various container kits required over a five-year period. It serves as a pricing sheet and a detailed list of required materials for potential bidders.

• Base Year, Year 2, Year 3, Year 4, Year 5: Each sheet outlines the requirements for a specific contract year.
• Product Item Description (PID): Identifies the specific container kit (e.g., M2A1, M4 Carbine, M240 W/E, M240B).
• Material Group (FSC or PSC): Indicates the Federal Supply Class or Product Service Code (e.g., 8115).
• Material # (NIIN): National Item Identification Number.
• Nomenclature: Detailed description of the container kit, including specific requirements for materials (e.g., fiberboard inserts), adherence to SPI (Special Packaging Instructions) numbers, and relevant diagrams or figures. Notably, cushioning must be made of fiberboard, and foam will not be accepted.
• Annual Estimate: The quantity of each kit required per year.
• Unit of Issue: The unit in which the item is supplied (e.g., KT for Kit).

This document is crucial for bidders as it provides the specific product requirements, estimated quantities, and critical material specifications for the container kits. Bidders must carefully review the nomenclature for each kit to understand the exact material and construction requirements, particularly the prohibition of foam cushioning and the need for fiberboard. This information is essential for accurate pricing and proposal development.

Amendment / Modification

• Question and Answers: A set of questions and answers (1 through) is attached to this amendment.

• Revised Schedule: The revised Schedule (Attachment 1 - Schedule of Supplies dated March 19, 2026) is attached and replaces any previous schedule.

• Attachment 1 (Schedule of Supplies) has been revised and is now dated March 19, 2026.

• This amendment modifies the solicitation. Bidders must acknowledge receipt of this amendment. Failure to do so may result in offer rejection. If a bidder wishes to change an offer already submitted, the change must be made by telegram or letter, referencing the solicitation and this amendment, and must be received before the opening hour and date.

Questions & Answers / Clarifications

This document provides responses to vendor questions regarding the DDAA SPI Weapon Boxes RFI, clarifying requirements and specifications.

• Dimensions and Figures: Material dimensions for Figures 1, 2, and 3 were clarified with revised schedules of supply. Updated documents with appropriately labeled figures were provided.
• VCI Tube and Barrier Bags: The requirement for barrier bags was omitted from material descriptions due to issues with the provided links and vendor contact information.
• SPI Kit Interpretation: The government confirmed that the requirement is for complete Special Packaging Instruction (SPI) kits, not individual components.
• Product Samples: Submission of product samples with quotations is not required.
• CLIN 0001 Cushioning: The requirement for fiberboard cushioning for CLIN 0001 was confirmed, with references to the revised Schedule of Supply and SPI for details, despite some visual depictions showing foam.
• CLIN Descriptions: For CLINs 0001-0004, while descriptions appeared identical, the government directed bidders to the revised Schedule of Supply for clarification on differing drawings.

Several requirements and specifications have been clarified or modified based on vendor questions, including material details, packaging components, and specific CLIN requirements. Bidders should consult the revised Schedule of Supply for updated information.

Amendment / Modification

• This amendment to solicitation SP3300-26-Q-0056 is not extending the offer receipt date.

• It indicates that historical orders are attached.

• Item 11: "THIS ITEM ONLY APPLIES TO AMENDMENTS OF SOLICITATIONS"

• Item 14: "DESCRIPTION OF AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION"

• The deadline for offer receipt remains unchanged.

• Bidders should review the attached historical orders for relevant information.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial products, specifically M2A1, M4, M240, and M240B Special Packaging Instructions (SPI) boxes, in support of DLA Distribution Anniston, AL (DDAA). It constitutes the only solicitation, and quotes are being requested; a written solicitation will not be issued. This is being issued as a Request for Quote (RFQ) under solicitation SP3300-26-Q-0056.

• Procurement of M2A1, M4, M240, and M240B Special Packaging Instructions (SPI) boxes.

• Packaging materials must meet Military Preservation Method MIL-STD-2073 requirements per SPI.

• All material shall be packaged using best commercial practice in accordance with ASTM 3951 and marked in accordance with MIL-STD-129P.

• Contract Type: Firm-Fixed-Priced (FFP), Indefinite-Delivery-Indefinite-Quantity (IDIQ).

• Ordering Period: Five-year ordering period.

• Maximum Value: $600,000.00.

• Minimum Order: Not less than $2,500.00.

• Maximum Order: Not to exceed 1,000 KITS for a single item, or 4,000 KITS for a combination of items in a single day.

• Delivery: 45 days After Receipt of Order (ARO).

• Closing Response Date: April 2, 2026, 1:00 PM EST.

• Submission Method: Electronic via email to brian.keckler@dla.mil, Subject: SP3300-26-Q-0056 Quotation – “Company Name”.

• Quote Validity: Prices must be held firm for 60 calendar days from the specified receipt date.

• Evaluation: Quotes will be evaluated on an Acceptable/Unacceptable basis for Technical Capability and Past Performance. Award will be made to the lowest priced quote that meets or exceeds the acceptability standards for the non-cost factors.

• Technical Capability: Must demonstrate understanding of requirements and provide manufacturer name, address, and part numbers.

• Past Performance: Will be evaluated on an acceptable/unacceptable basis. Relevant past performance information should be provided.

• This solicitation is being solicited as a 100% Small Business Set-aside.

• Product Service Code (PSC): 8115 (BOXES, CARTONS, AND CRATES).

• North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code: 322211 (Corrugated and Solid Fiber Box Manufacturing) with a size standard of 1,250 employees.

• Questions must be submitted via email to Brian Keckler at least four calendar days before the closing date.

• Answers to questions will be posted as an amendment to the solicitation.

• Ship To Address: DLA Distribution Anniston, AL (DDAA), 7 Frankford Avenue, Bldg 362, Door 3, Anniston, AL 36201-4199.

• This acquisition is not a Defense Priorities and Allocations System (DPAS) rated procurement.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is an Excel spreadsheet titled "Attachment 1 - Schedule of Supplies.xlsx" which details the required container kits for various firearms over a five-year period. It serves as a schedule of supplies, outlining the specific items, quantities, and material specifications needed.

• Product Item Description (PID): Lists specific container kits for M2A1, M4 Carbine, M240 W/E, and M240B firearms.
• Material Group (FSC or PSC): Primarily FSC 8115.
• Material # (NIIN): Unique National Item Identification Numbers for each kit.
• Nomenclature: Detailed descriptions of the container kits, including specific SPI (Special Packaging Instructions) numbers and requirements for fiberboard cushioning (foam is not accepted). It also references a URL for the most recent revision of SPI specifications: https://www.ilsc.army.mil/Packaging.
• Annual Estimate: The estimated quantity of each kit required per year.
• Unit of Issue: 'KT' for Kit.
• Years 1-5: The schedule provides estimated quantities for each kit for five separate years, indicating a recurring need.

This document is crucial for bidders as it specifies the exact items, quantities, and critical material requirements (e.g., fiberboard cushioning) for the container kits. Bidders must review these specifications carefully to ensure their proposed products meet all technical requirements and to accurately price their bids for each year of the potential contract period.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, a Special Packaging Instruction (SPI), details the specific requirements for packaging, preservation, and packing of the M2A1 Machine Gun, Caliber .50, Quick Change Barrel with Basic Issue Items (BII). It serves as a guide for ensuring the item is protected during transit and storage.

• Item Identification: Machine Gun, Cal.50, M2A1 Quick Change Barrel W/BII, National Stock Number (NSN) 1005-01-511-1250.
• Preservation: Specifies MIL-STD-2073-1, Method 41 for military preservation, including cleaning and drying procedures.
• Packing Materials: Details specific materials required, such as waterproof treated tubes, barrier bags (MIL-DTL-22020E, MIL-PRF-131K), foam supports, fiberboard boxes (ASTM D5118/D5118M), and tape (ASTM D5486).
• Basic Issue Items (BII): Lists components to be included, such as extractor, operator's manual, carrier assembly, and barrel assembly.
• Detailed Operations: Provides step-by-step instructions with visual aids (photos and diagrams) for assembling the packaging, from bagging individual components to sealing the final exterior container.
• Marking: Outlines specific marking requirements for inner and outer containers, including "REUSABLE PACKAGING - DO NOT DESTROY" and "TO OPEN - CUT TAPE ONLY ALONG TOP TAPE SEAMS."
• Palletization: Specifies requirements for palletizing 15 containers per pallet, including heat treatment for wood pallets in accordance with ISPM 15 standards.

This document is critical for any bidder involved in the manufacturing, refurbishment, or shipping of the M2A1 Machine Gun. It dictates the exact packaging, preservation, and marking standards that must be met for successful delivery and acceptance. Understanding these requirements is essential for accurate cost estimation and ensuring compliance with government specifications.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, DD Form 2169, "SPECIAL PACKAGING INSTRUCTION," provides detailed instructions for the packaging of the 5.56MM M4 Carbine (NSN 1005-01-231-0973). It specifies the methods and materials required to ensure the item is properly preserved, protected, and prepared for shipment.

• Item: 5.56MM M4 Carbine (Part/Drawing No. 9390000, NSN 1005-01-231-0973)
• Preservation: MIL-STD-2073-1, Method 10, using MIL-PRF-3150 preservative.
• Cleaning & Drying: As per MIL-STD-2073-1, with specific instructions for disassembly and cleaning of residue, followed by drying methods.
• Packing: Details Level A (50 unit containers in a shipping container) and Level B (ASTM D5168 Style E, weather-resistant container) packing requirements.
• Blocking: Specific instructions and diagrams for barrel blocking (Figure 1) and butt stock blocking (Figure 2) using fiberboard.
• Materials: Specifies materials for blocking (fiberboard ASTM D4727/D4727M or A-A-59136) and containers (ASTM D6251/ASTM D6251M for Level A, ASTM D5168 for Level B).
• Marking: Requirements per MIL-STD-129, including serial number markings.
• Wood Packaging: Mandates heat treatment for all non-manufactured wood used in packaging.

Vendors involved in the procurement or shipment of M4 Carbines under this specification must adhere strictly to these packaging instructions. Failure to comply could result in rejection of goods or non-payment. This document is critical for understanding the required quality and methods for preparing the item for delivery.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, DD Form 2169, "SPECIAL PACKAGING INSTRUCTION," provides detailed instructions for the packaging and preservation of the M240 Machine Gun, 7.62MM W/E (National Stock Number 1005-01-025-8095).

• Preservation: Specifies cleaning, drying, and preservative application methods, including requirements for "burned powder residue" and the use of MIL-PRF-372 and MIL-PRF-680.
• Unit Pack: Details the components to be included in the unit pack (e.g., buffer assembly, operating rod assembly, barrel assembly, VCI bags, small arms cleaning case, protective mitten, spare barrel carrying case) and the specific packing materials and methods (e.g., fiberboard boxes, ASTM standards).
• Packing: Outlines requirements for packing multiple unit packs into larger containers, including Level A and Level B packing standards and palletization.
• Marking: Specifies requirements for marking each package, including nomenclature, part numbers, serial numbers, and unique item identification via bar codes.
• Drawings: Includes detailed drawings for components such as the receiver support and lower end support, as well as a packaging diagram.

This document is critical for any bidder involved in the manufacturing, assembly, or delivery of the M240 Machine Gun. It dictates the precise methods and materials required for preservation, unit packaging, and final shipment. Compliance with these instructions is essential for successful contract performance and acceptance of goods.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a Special Packaging Instruction (SPI) detailing the specific requirements for packaging the M240 Machine Gun, 7.62mm (Part or Drawing No. 12976814, National Stock No. 1005-01-412-3129).

• Preservation: Specifies MIL-STD-2073-1, Method 33 for military preservation, including cleaning, drying, and application of preservative oil (MIL-PRF-3150).
• Unit Pack: Details the components to be included in the unit pack, such as the operating rod assembly, spring rod, ruptured cartridge extractor, manual, sling, and VCI wrap. It also specifies the use of fiberboard boxes and VCI paper.
• Packing: Outlines requirements for packing twenty containers onto a pallet, adhering to specific ASTM standards for weather resistance and palletization.
• Marking: Instructions for labeling unit packs and shipping containers, including nomenclature, part numbers, and serial numbers via bar codes.
• Wood Packaging: Mandates compliance with ISPM 15 for all wood packaging materials, requiring heat treatment and certification.
• Drawings: Includes detailed drawings for components such as the receiver holder, barrel and bipod support, and support buttstock, providing dimensions for fabrication and assembly.

This document is critical for any bidder involved in the manufacturing, refurbishment, or logistics of the M240 Machine Gun. It provides precise instructions on how the item must be preserved, packaged, and marked to meet military specifications. Failure to comply with these instructions could lead to rejection of the item or other penalties. Bidders must ensure their production and packaging processes align with these detailed requirements.