Notice of Intent to Sole Source – Sonoco Thermo Safe Endurotherm Temperature Controlled Shipping Containers

The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response within the Department of Health and Human Services intends to award a sole source contract to Sonoco Protective Solutions for the acquisition of Sonoco Thermo-Safe Endurotherm and Refrigerants Insulated Temperature Shipping Containers, under the statutory authority of 41 U.S.C. 3304(a)(1) and RFO 6.103-1, which determines Sonoco as the only responsible source capable of meeting the agency’s requirements. This notice, issued under solicitation number 75A50326Q00016 and classified under NAICS code 561910 for Packaging and Labeling Services, is for informational and planning purposes only and does not constitute a formal solicitation. The contract requires temperature-controlled shipping containers that maintain a precise range of 2°C to 8°C for at least 92 hours without the use of dry ice, utilizing passive, non-electrical technology, and must be available in up to three sizes for vaccine-type items. The containers and refrigerants must have a minimum shelf life of four years and two to four years respectively while in storage, and must comply with ISTA-3A Drop Test and ISTA 7D Winter and Summer Protocol standards. All units must be marked with the manufacture date, model number, and manufacturer name, accompanied by end-user packaging instructions, technical support contacts, qualification verification letters, and clear guidance on safe disposal and material risks. The period of performance is twelve months, with place of performance in Georgia. Capability statements from interested parties must be submitted via email to Akela Long and Carolyn Knight by June 12, 2026, at 1:00 PM ET, referencing the solicitation number in the subject line, with no telephone inquiries accepted. The notice explicitly states that no formal evaluation factors, pricing, or contract clauses are included at this stage, as the award is anticipated to be made directly to Sonoco without competition.