Bid guide
How to bid on Engine Water Sample Testing for MH-65E aircraft for the US Coast Guard
What the agency is buying and why it matters
The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Aviation Logistic Center (ALC) in Elizabeth City, NC, is seeking laboratory services for engine water sample testing from MH-65E aircraft. This contract involves testing a total of 100 samples per year, originating from 17 different locations and Coast Guard cutters. Final reports for these tests are required within 7 calendar days of the laboratory receiving the samples.
This is a total small-business set-aside opportunity, meaning only small businesses can submit quotes. The contract is structured as an Indefinite Delivery Requirements type, with individually funded task orders. The anticipated contract duration is up to five years, consisting of a one-year base period and four optional one-year periods.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
The solicitation was published on July 22, 2026. The deadline for submitting quotes is August 10, 2026, at 10:00 AM EDT. All quotes and any questions must be submitted by email to [email protected]. It is important to include solicitation number 70Z03826QB0000147 in the email subject line.
The USCG will not accept preliminary results for the testing; final reports are due within 7 calendar days of lab receipt. There is no specified maximum holding time for samples, but they are typically shipped from USCG facilities within 24 hours.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is a total small-business set-aside, making it suitable for small businesses specializing in professional laboratory testing services. The applicable North American Industry Classification Standard (NAICS) Code is 541990, with a small business size standard of $19.5 million.
Firms with expertise in water sample analysis, particularly those familiar with ASTM or ISO methods for parameters like aspect, pH, conductivity, dissolved solids, and ash testing, would be well-suited. The USCG does not specify required certifications but encourages proposers to list their accreditations and certifications. A small-business prime contractor may use a qualified subcontract laboratory to perform the testing, provided all statement of work requirements are met.
How to respond to this solicitation
This is a Request for Quotation (RFQ), and this announcement serves as the only solicitation; a separate written solicitation will not be issued. To access the full details and attachments, you will need to view the original source on the portal. You may need a free account to view the documents, though for many bids, this is not required.
Once you have reviewed the solicitation documents, including "Attachment 1 - Requirements," "Attachment 2 - Statement of Work," "Attachment 3 - Terms and Conditions," and the wage determinations, prepare your quotation. Submit your complete quote via email to [email protected] by the deadline, ensuring the solicitation number 70Z03826QB0000147 is in the subject line.
Tips for preparing a competitive response
Carefully review all attachments, especially the Statement of Work (Attachment 2) and its Appendix A, which contains inspection limits for various parameters. Ensure your proposed methods (ASTM or ISO are acceptable) and reporting limits are below the specified acceptance thresholds. Clearly state the accreditations and certifications your laboratory possesses.
Emphasize your ability to meet the strict 7-calendar-day turnaround time for final reports from the date of sample receipt. The USCG will not accept preliminary results. Since the contractor provides sample containers, detail your proposed container types and volumes, and confirm your understanding of the USCG's sample packaging procedures. If using a subcontractor, clearly outline how all statement of work requirements will be met.
See the live bid — deadline, agency details, and how to respond
Dates and requirements can change via addenda; always verify on the bid page and at the original source before responding.
View this bid on BiddingSimpleThis guide was prepared by BiddingSimple from the solicitation’s public posting. It is not official guidance from US Coast Guard; the original posting controls.