Notice of Intent - Tubewriter, LLC
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 Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has published a Notice of Intent to procure a TubeWriter 400 Direct High-Speed Alphanumeric Printing System and associated services on a sole-source basis from TubeWriter, LLC. This acquisition is for the FBI's Laboratory Division, Biometrics Analysis Section, DNA Support Unit, to support critical casework sample processing. Interested parties capable of providing the required system must submit capability statements by May 14, 2026, 5:00 PM EST, to challenge this sole-source determination.
Scope of Requirement
The FBI requires the following items:
- One (1) PN# TW-400A, Tubewriter 400 – Direct High-Speed Alphanumeric Printing System
- One (1) TW-INSTALL-400, TW400 Onsite Installation and Training
- One (1) PN# INK+ TubeWriter 400 One-Year Ink Subscription (from install date)
- One (1) PN# CARE-PLATNIUM-TW400, TubeWriter 400 Service Care (one year from install date)
The system must provide direct printing onto curved plastic tubes, utilize cryogenic-resistant and chemical-resistant ink, be compatible with multiple tube diameters, and offer high-resolution printing for barcodes and small text. It must also be low-maintenance and produce permanent, solvent-resistant, freezer-safe, and autoclave-safe markings.
Contract & Timeline
- Contract Type: Intended as a Firm-Fixed-Price contract.
- Sole Source Justification: FAR 6.302-1 (Only One Responsible Source and No Other Supplies or Services Will Satisfy Agency Requirements).
- NAICS Code: 334516 (Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing), Size Standard: 1000 employees.
- Product Service Code: 6640 (Laboratory Equipment And Supplies).
- Delivery: Within 120 days after receipt of order.
- Response Due: May 14, 2026, 5:00 PM EST.
- Published Date: May 7, 2026.
Justification & Market Research
Market research indicated that no other commercially available system meets the FBI's mandatory requirements for direct printing, durability, and compatibility. TubeWriter LLC is identified as the sole manufacturer and authorized seller, with third-party service voiding the warranty. The FBI has prior experience with TubeWriter units.
Response Instructions
This is not a request for competitive quotes. Interested parties must submit emailed responses demonstrating clear and convincing evidence that competition would be advantageous to the Government. Responses must include the firm's DUNS, CAGE Code, UEI, Business Size, and a capability statement detailing experience, equipment/assets, background, and ability to provide the required instrument without compromising quality, reliability, safety, accuracy, and schedule. Information received will be considered solely to determine if a competitive procurement is feasible. No reimbursement for costs will be provided.
Contact Information
Primary Point of Contact: Jonathan Johnson (jejohnson3@fbi.gov). Email only; no phone calls.