How to bid on Specialized Domestic and International Cold-Chain Logistics Services for the IRR, CDC

What the CDC is buying and why it matters

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is seeking information from logistics providers for specialized domestic and international cold-chain transportation services. This involves shipping temperature-sensitive biological materials for the International Reagent Resource (IRR) program.

The IRR distributes diagnostic reagents, influenza viruses, and other biological products globally. The CDC needs reliable services to maintain strict cold temperatures during transit and handle complex international customs and regulatory compliance. This RFI is for market research to help the CDC define future service needs and identify qualified vendors.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This Request for Information (RFI) was published on July 15, 2026. Responses are due by August 15, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET.

This is a market research RFI, not a solicitation for proposals or pricing. The CDC is gathering information to understand marketplace capabilities and develop a future acquisition strategy. Submitting a response is voluntary and does not guarantee participation in any future procurement.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for commercial logistics providers with demonstrated experience in transporting temperature-sensitive biological materials. Firms should have capabilities for both domestic and international shipping, including handling refrigerated, frozen, ultra-low temperature, and dry ice shipments.

Relevant experience includes customs brokerage, international regulatory support, and the ability to support surge operations during public health emergencies. Companies with experience supporting federal agencies or public health organizations are particularly relevant.

How to respond

To access the opportunity, click “View original source” on the portal. If the first click leads to the portal's homepage, click it again to go directly to the bid. A free account may be needed to view documents for some bids.

Responses should not exceed ten pages, excluding product brochures or capability statements. Submissions must be in PDF format and sent electronically. Ensure all requested information is included, such as company details, business size, experience descriptions, cold-chain and international shipping capabilities, surge capacity, quality management systems, and tracking capabilities. Remember to include both points of contact when responding.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

Clearly detail your experience with temperature-sensitive biological materials, specifying the types of products handled and the temperature ranges supported. Highlight your validated packaging solutions and temperature monitoring technologies.

Emphasize your international shipping capabilities, including the countries you currently service and your expertise in customs brokerage and regulatory compliance. Provide examples of how you have resolved customs delays or supported international regulatory requirements.

Describe your quality management systems, relevant certifications (e.g., ISO, GDP, IATA Dangerous Goods), and how these ensure compliance and reliability. Showcase your ability to support surge operations and provide real-time shipment tracking and customer support across multiple time zones.