Bid guide
How to bid on Type 6 Fire Engines-Model 643U- Body Only for the USDA
What the agency is buying
The U.S. Forest Service, part of the Department of Agriculture, is looking for qualified vendors to provide 33 Type 6 fire engines. These will be in a body-only configuration, designed to be installed on government-furnished 4x4 cab and chassis.
The work involves preparing the chassis, installing the fire engine body, a fire pump, a 300-gallon water tank, warning lights, and a graphics package. Each unit must be delivered as a complete operational apparatus, meeting Forest Service national standard specifications and NFPA 1900 requirements. On-site familiarization training is also required for each delivered unit.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This is a Request for Information (RFI) published on July 30, 2026. The deadline for responses is August 18, 2026, at 2:00 PM ET. At this time, the agency will stop accepting submissions.
An RFI is used by an agency to gather information and assess market capabilities. It is not a request for a formal bid or proposal, but your response helps the agency understand what vendors can offer and may influence future solicitations.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for firms specializing in motor vehicle body manufacturing, specifically those with experience in fire fighting equipment. The NAICS code for this procurement is 336211 (Motor Vehicle Body Manufacturing) and the PSC is 4210 (Fire Fighting Equipment).
Vendors must demonstrate their capability to produce apparatus that meet the detailed requirements of the U.S. Forest Service, including compliance with NFPA 1900 standards.
How to respond
To access the full details of this opportunity, you need to go to the original source portal. Click the “View original source” link. If the first click takes you to the portal’s homepage, click the link again to go directly to the bid.
You may need to create a free account on the portal to view all the associated documents, though for some bids, this is not necessary.
Tips for preparing a competitive response
When responding to an RFI, clearly summarize your firm's capabilities in an executive format. Focus on how your company can meet or exceed the specified requirements for chassis modifications, body installation, pump systems, water tanks, lighting, and graphics.
Highlight your experience with similar projects and your ability to comply with national standards like NFPA 1900. Emphasize your capacity to deliver 33 units and provide the required on-site training. Even though this is an RFI, a well-structured and detailed response can position your company favorably for future solicitations.
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 Agriculture, Department of; the original posting controls.