How to bid on Response Vehicle Conversions for the DEPT of Defense

What the agency is buying

The Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division, located in China Lake, California, is seeking service-body conversions for two trucks. Specifically, they require one Knapheide Service Body PN 696-2-M or an equal product. This is a full and open competition, meaning all responsible businesses are invited to submit a quote.

This opportunity is for vendors who can supply and install specialized service bodies on trucks, providing essential equipment for agency operations.

Key dates and deadlines

The solicitation is expected to be posted on SAM.gov around September 10, 2026. The deadline for submitting your quote is September 18, 2026, at 7:00 PM ET. It is crucial to submit your response before this deadline, as late submissions are typically not considered.

Ensure your System for Award Management (SAM) registration is active well in advance of the deadline, as an inactive registration will prevent an award.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for businesses specializing in vehicle customization, particularly those with experience in service-body truck conversions. Firms that can supply or provide an equivalent to the Knapheide Service Body PN 696-2-M are encouraged to bid.

The relevant category for this work is equipment, and it is open to all responsible sources, making it accessible to a wide range of qualified vendors.

How to respond

The solicitation will be posted on the Contract Opportunities section of the SAM.gov website. You will need to access the full details and specifications there. Once you have prepared your quote, it should be submitted via email to Donell Sims.

To view the opportunity documents, you may need to create a free account on the portal, though for some bids, this is not required. Always check the original source for complete instructions.

Practical tips for a competitive response

Carefully review Section C of the solicitation for complete specifications and requirements. If offering an "equal" product, clearly demonstrate how your offering meets or exceeds all specified features and performance criteria of the brand-name item.

Ensure your System for Award Management (SAM) registration is current and active. The government cannot award contracts to entities without an active SAM registration. Be proactive in maintaining your registration, as updates can take several days to process.

Pay close attention to all submission instructions, including the required format and any specific documentation. Submitting a complete and compliant response is essential for consideration.