How to bid on a service agreement for a Mass Spectrometer for the Department of Agriculture

What the agency is buying

The Department of Agriculture is seeking a service agreement for an Orbitrap Exploris 240 Mass Spectrometer with LC and associated components. This agreement will cover a one-year base period, with the possibility of two additional one-year option periods. This is a chance for small businesses to provide essential maintenance and support for specialized scientific equipment.

Key dates and deadlines

This Request for Quotation (RFQ) was published on September 04, 2026. The deadline for submitting your quotation is September 14, 2026, at 4:00 PM ET. All responses must be submitted by this time to be considered by the agency.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is a total small-business set-aside. It is suitable for small businesses specializing in the repair and maintenance of electronic and precision equipment, particularly analytical and scientific instruments. The relevant North American Industry Classification Standard (NAICS) Code is 811210, with a small business size standard of $34 million.

How to respond

To access the solicitation documents and prepare your response, you will need to view the original source on the portal. Sometimes, the first click may take you to the portal's homepage; if so, click the link again to go directly to the bid. You may need a free account on the portal to view all documents, though this is not always required.

This is an RFQ, meaning the agency is requesting quotations. A separate written solicitation will not be issued beyond this announcement.

Tips for a competitive response

When preparing your quotation, ensure it directly addresses all requirements outlined in the Statement of Work (SOW). Clearly detail your firm's experience with similar mass spectrometry equipment and your capacity to provide timely and effective service. Highlight any certifications or specialized training your technicians possess relevant to this type of equipment.

Since this is a service agreement with option periods, demonstrate your ability to provide consistent, high-quality service over an extended duration. Pay close attention to pricing for both the base year and the option years, ensuring it is competitive and clearly itemized. Double-check all submission instructions and deadlines to ensure your quotation is compliant and submitted on time.