U.S.-Flag Vessel Ocean Transportation

The contract requires arrangement of ocean shipment via a U.S.-flag vessel to FPO AP 96695, with strict adherence to the preference for American-flagged carriers. If a suitable U.S.-flag vessel is unavailable, the contractor must prepare and submit a formal waiver that includes full details of the alternative vessel, and this waiver must be submitted no later than 45 days prior to the scheduled shipment date. The solicitation falls under the NAICS code 483111, indicating it is classified as ocean transportation of freight. It is designated as a subcontract and is issued by the Department of Defense through the Subsistence FSE Supply Chain. The opportunity was posted on August 4, 2026, with a response deadline of August 6, 2026, leaving a narrow window for proposals. All submissions must comply with the regulatory requirements of the U.S. Merchant Marine and relevant defense logistics protocols, and failure to provide a timely waiver or to use a U.S.-flag vessel without an approved exception will result in non-compliance.