Refurbished and Used Boxcars

The U.S. Department of Transportation, Volpe National Transportation Systems Center, is conducting market research via Request for Information RFI-DOT-VOLPE-2026-001 to determine the availability of refurbished and used 50-foot standard railway boxcars. These vehicles are required to safely transport ammunition and explosives in accordance with strict military safety regulations. The equipment must meet Association of American Railroads (AAR) standards, specifically mechanical designation XM, car type B314 or equal, and AAR Plate-C dimensions. Key technical requirements include a weathertight roof, AWS D15.1 welding standards, and specific painting specifications utilizing urethane paint in yellow for the carbody and black for the underframe, with red stenciling for the United States Army. Interested respondents under NAICS code 336510 must submit a written Statement of Capabilities and estimated unit costs for orders up to 500 boxcars by October 21, 2026. The scope of work includes the delivery of cars to a CONUS U.S. Army rail base and the registration of all cars in the AAR UMLER files. Quality assurance is paramount, requiring a formal plan from the rail shop and rigorous testing of air brake systems, hand brakes, and side bearings. Final acceptance will occur at the destination following an inspection for carrier damage. This RFI is for planning purposes only and does not constitute a formal solicitation or a commitment of government funds.