V119--Customs Brokerage Services for Import of Pharmaceutical Products
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 Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is conducting market research through a Sources Sought notice to identify vendors capable of providing Customs Brokerage and transportation services for the import of pharmaceutical products. These services are required for the VA Cooperative Studies Program Clinical Research Pharmacy Coordinating Center in Albuquerque, New Mexico. This is a Total Small Business Set-Aside. Responses are due June 4, 2026.
Scope of Work
The VHA requires a vendor to act as a liaison between the VA, US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for importing and clearing pharmaceutical products, which may include Schedule I-V controlled substances. Key services include:
- Maintaining a continuous customs bond.
- Providing import and transportation services from the US port of entry to Albuquerque, NM.
- Offering appropriate temperature controls for freight, including temperature logging devices for cold chain management.
- Performing CBP and FDA clearance, including duties, taxes, and fees (with potential tariff exemptions for research products under HTSUS 9817.00.60).
- Insuring freight during transit.
- Providing a centralized point of contact and cost estimates prior to transportation.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought (Market Research)
- Anticipated Duration: One base year plus four (4) option years.
- Set-Aside: Total Small Business Set-Aside (FAR 19.5)
- Response Due: June 4, 2026, 7:00 PM ET
- Published: May 28, 2026
- Place of Performance: VA Cooperative Studies Program Clinical Research Pharmacy Coordinating Center, 2401 Centre Ave SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106.
Submission & Evaluation
This is solely for market research; no costs will be paid for responses. Vendors are invited to submit capability responses addressing their ability to fulfill the identified requirements. The information will be used for acquisition planning, size determination, and procurement strategy.
Additional Notes
A Power-of-Attorney (POA) will likely be required, necessitating coordination between VA legal and the vendor. The base year and all option years will need to be priced upfront at the time of a future solicitation. The Product Service Code is V119 (Other Cargo And Freight Services).