DLA Aviation RFQs: Small, time-bound buys for aircraft parts and a vehicle tool kit (quotes due Feb 18)

Executive takeaway

DLA Aviation in Richmond is seeking electronic quotes on several NSN line items with relatively modest quantities but firm delivery expectations (several at 0171 days ADO, one bearing line at 0030 days ADO, and another at 0321 days ADO). Several of these RFQs are constrained to approved sources/part numbers, and multiple notices state that specifications, plans, or drawings are not available—so bidders should be prepared to quote exact approved items or verify whether alternates are allowed in the RFQ package. One opportunity is set aside for SDVOSBC, and another indicates SBA set-aside.

What the buyer is trying to do

These notices support DLA’s ongoing mission of stocking and distributing mission-critical parts and kits through DLA Distribution sites. The buyer’s objective is to place purchase actions quickly via RFQ for specific NSNs and quantities, with delivery routed to designated distribution locations and deadlines expressed in days after contract/order (ADO).

What work is implied (bullets)

• Review each RFQ package at the posted link and confirm line-item requirements, including any notes on approved sources and acceptability of substitutes (if any).
• Source the exact NSN item(s) and any specified approved source part number(s) where stated.
• Prepare an electronic quote for the required unit of issue and quantity.
• Plan fulfillment to the specified DLA Distribution destination(s) within the stated ADO delivery windows.
• Where notices say drawings/specs aren’t available, rely on RFQ terms and approved source identifiers to ensure exact compliance.
• For the tool kit RFQ, retrieve any digitized drawings and Military Specifications/Standards electronically as referenced (if needed for compliance).

Who should bid / who should pass (bullets)

• Bid if you are the approved source (or can supply the approved part number exactly) for items that list approved sources.
• Bid if you routinely quote DLA Aviation RFQs and can meet distribution delivery timelines expressed in ADO.
• Bid if you are an SDVOSBC and can supply the vehicle tool kit NSN (set-aside indicated for that notice).
• Bid if you are a small business aligned to the SBA set-aside indicated on the hex cap screw RFQ and can supply the approved source part number(s).
• Pass if you cannot supply the exact approved source/part number where “approved source is/are” is stated and the RFQ does not permit alternates (verify in the RFQ).
• Pass if you depend on drawings/specifications to manufacture and the notice indicates those are not available (unless you can comply via approved-source supply).
• Pass if you cannot support the shortest delivery callout (one bearing line shows 0030 days ADO).

Response package checklist (bullets; if unknown say “verify in attachments”)

• Completed electronic quote submission (method and portal specifics: verify in attachments).
• Pricing for each line item (unit and extended), consistent with the stated unit of issue (EA / KT).
• Confirmation of the NSN and exact item identification, including approved source CAGE/part number where stated (or documentation supporting compliance if RFQ allows alternates—verify in attachments).
• Delivery commitment matching the stated ADO requirement and destination DLA Distribution site.
• Any required representations/certifications and RFQ clauses: verify in attachments.
• For the tool kit: any required spec/standard compliance documentation based on digitized drawings and Military Specifications/Standards (as applicable): verify in attachments.

Pricing & strategy notes (how to research pricing; do not invent pricing numbers)

For DLA Aviation RFQs like these, the practical pricing work is less about lengthy technical narratives and more about supply-chain certainty, lead time realism, and defensible unit pricing for the exact NSN/approved source item.

• Start by mapping each RFQ to its NSN, quantity, and required ADO delivery window; the tightest delivery line should drive expedite/availability assumptions.
• Where an approved source is listed, research availability and lead times for that exact part number before you price.
• Use your internal sales history and any prior DLA quote history you have for the same NSN/part number to establish a competitive baseline.
• Confirm shipping and handling assumptions based on the destination distribution point named in the notice; keep pricing consistent with the delivery promise you make.
• If the RFQ package allows quoting multiple delivery options or partials (often not stated in the synopsis), decide whether a faster delivery offer is a differentiator—verify in attachments.

Subcontracting / teaming ideas (bullets)

• Pair with an established distributor for the specific approved source part numbers where your direct access is limited (ensure traceability/authorization as required—verify in RFQ).
• For the SDVOSBC tool kit requirement, consider teaming with a kit assembler or specialty tool supplier if you can prime but need a component supply chain.
• Use a logistics partner familiar with DLA Distribution receiving to reduce delivery risk and avoid paperwork/packaging issues (verify packaging/marking requirements in attachments).

Risks & watch-outs (bullets)

• Approved source constraints: Several notices identify approved sources/part numbers; quoting a non-approved substitute could render the quote noncompliant (confirm in RFQ).
• Limited technical data: Multiple synopses state specifications/plans/drawings are not available, which increases the risk of misinterpretation if you are not supplying the exact referenced item.
• Delivery realism: ADO delivery requirements vary by line; one bearing line lists 0030 days ADO, which may require stocked inventory.
• Electronic-only submission: Quotes must be submitted electronically; ensure registration/access and file formats align with RFQ instructions (verify in attachments).
• Set-aside eligibility: One RFQ is marked SDVOSBC and one indicates SBA; confirm eligibility and any required documentation before you invest bid time.

Related opportunities

• 49--HOLDING CLAMP,SPRIN (SPE4A526T7824)
• 29--GEAR,DRIVE,BOOSTER (SPE4A526T7779)
• 31--BEARING,ROLLER,CYLINDR (SPE4A626T658R)
• 51--TOOL KIT,VEHICLE,TA (SPE4A726T9035)
• 53--SCREW,CAP,HEXAGON H (SPE4A626T662E)
• 16--BUSHING SLEEVEX (SPE4A526T7776)

How to act on this

1. Open the RFQ link(s) above and download the solicitation package(s) (hard copies are not available).
2. Confirm approved source requirements, delivery ADO, and any packaging/marking instructions (verify in attachments).
3. Validate supply/lead time for the exact NSN/part number(s), then build pricing that matches your delivery commitment.
4. Submit your quote electronically before the stated deadline.

If you want a second set of eyes on compliance risk (approved-source constraints, delivery feasibility, and quote completeness), consider support from Federal Bid Partners LLC.