Request for Information (RFI) - Artificial Intelligence for Image Adjudication
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 U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), under the Department of Homeland Security, has issued a Request for Information (RFI) seeking industry input on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) models for Non-Intrusive Inspection (NII) image adjudication. This RFI aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of processing high volumes of X-ray images from large-scale imaging systems for vehicles and cargo. Responses are due by May 30, 2026.
Purpose & Scope
This RFI is for market research and planning purposes only, not a solicitation for proposals. CBP is exploring how to best develop and implement modular AI/ML algorithms and models that can:
- Operate on large-scale NII imagery and metadata, specifically emphasizing WCO UFF format.
- Be adapted to CBP's operational needs and constraints.
- Integrate as 'drop-in' components into existing CBP architectures without requiring new proprietary data platforms.
Key Information Requested from Vendors
CBP is interested in vendor capabilities and approaches related to:
- Developed or developing algorithm products for anomaly detection, manifest/commodity verification, conveyance modification, and contraband detection, including performance metrics.
- Development approach, models, limitations, and generalization capabilities.
- Image segmentation capabilities and supported image formats (including UFF).
- Technical dependencies, system requirements, and potential incompatibilities.
- Typical architecture, training, deployment, and scaling strategies.
- Field testing experience and operational performance results.
- Methods for training, verification, deployment, data requirements, and handling of incomplete metadata.
- Algorithm system integration, including APIs and integration with CBP viewers.
- Evolution of AI/ML models through continuous training and performance monitoring.
- Specific applications for contraband/condition detection across LS-NII modalities.
- Investment, acquisition, design, and management strategies to minimize risk and costs.
- Industry's role in standardizing technology and maximizing interoperability.
- Subcontracting/teaming arrangements, including small/disadvantaged businesses.
- Collaborative activities to encourage open architecture, non-proprietary AI/ML solutions.
Submission & Deadlines
- Questions Due: May 15, 2026, by 12:00 PM EST.
- Responses Due: May 30, 2026, by 12:00 PM EST.
- Submission Method: Electronic submission via email. Files larger than 10 MB must be broken down.
- Page Limit: Fifteen (15) pages per submission (excluding specific front/back matter).
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Request for Information (RFI) / Sources Sought
- Set-Aside: None specified (market research stage)
- Published Date: April 28, 2026
- Response Date: May 30, 2026
Additional Notes
This RFI is for Government Market Research only and does not constitute a commitment to procure. All costs associated with responding are at the respondent's expense. Submissions become government property and will not be returned.