Bid guide
How to bid on Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement (VISA) - 2024 Renewal with USTRANSCOM
What USTRANSCOM is buying and why it matters
The US Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) is seeking worldwide deep-sea freight and intermodal transportation services for contingency operations. These contracts, known as the Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement (VISA), will run from October 2024 to September 2034.
Companies participating in VISA commit vessel capacity for use during Department of Defense (DoD) contingency operations. In return for this commitment, VISA participants receive priority for peacetime DoD cargo. This is a significant opportunity for firms in the maritime and logistics sectors to secure long-term engagement with the DoD.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
The solicitation for VISA is open for enrollment from June 27, 2024, to September 30, 2034. The Period of Performance for the initial base period is October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2029, with an option period extending to September 30, 2034.
There is no single submission deadline in the traditional sense, as enrollment is ongoing. However, current participants will be contacted starting in July 2024 to confirm their interest in renewing their enrollment. New participants must enroll through the Maritime Administration (MARAD) website.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is ideal for companies that provide ocean transportation charter services, including worldwide port-to-port ocean movements and related intermodal movements, infrastructure, services, and management expertise. Firms must have the capacity to commit vessels for potential use during DoD contingency operations.
This is particularly suited for established maritime shipping companies and logistics providers with significant vessel assets and global operational capabilities. The category for this procurement is transportation.
How to respond to this solicitation
Current VISA participants will be contacted directly by USTRANSCOM-AQ via email starting in July 2024 to confirm their desire to remain enrolled. They will receive their previous Attachment 1 and 2(s) to identify any necessary changes to vessel commitments. All Attachment 2s must be refilled out and submitted. If vessel changes are needed, Attachment 1 will be updated and coordinated with MARAD and USTRANSCOM.
New VISA participants must enroll through the Maritime Administration (MARAD) website. After MARAD approval, USTRANSCOM-AQ will work with the new participant to execute all necessary documents for contract execution.
Tips for preparing a competitive response
For current participants, carefully review your existing vessel commitments and identify any changes needed for Attachment 1. Ensure all Attachment 2s are accurately refilled out, even if vessel commitments remain the same, as pricing methodologies have been updated.
New participants should thoroughly review the VISA requirements on the MARAD website and prepare a comprehensive enrollment package. Clearly demonstrate your firm's capacity to provide the required deep-sea freight and intermodal transportation services and your ability to commit vessel capacity for contingency operations. Highlight any experience with government contracts or large-scale logistics.
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 Transportation Command (ustranscom); the original posting controls.