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DIBBS only shows RFQs and IFBs. Where are the sources sought for DLA buys?

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  • DLA does conduct market research, but for common items of supply like the industrial supplies under your NAICS code 423840, they often rely on historical procurement data and existing vendor lists instead of issuing new sources sought notices.
  • While Dave is right that DIBBS goes straight to RFQ or IFB for
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Hey everyone,

I'm new to selling parts to the federal government. My company is registered in SAM.gov and I got my UEI. I've been looking around on DLA Internet Bid Board System (DIBBS) for opportunities. I see a lot of RFQs and Invitations for Bid (IFBs) there, which is good. My NAICS is 423840 (Industrial Supplies Merchant Wholesalers).

What I'm not seeing on DIBBS are any sources sought notices or other market research notices. On SAM.gov, I see those types of notices all the time for other agencies. Does DLA do market research somewhere else before they post an RFQ or IFB? Or do they just go straight to solicitation on DIBBS for parts?

dibbsdlasources-soughtsam-gov
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asked Jordan P. First-year bidder, landscaping and grounds · Jacksonville, FL · 156 rep

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Accepted answer

DLA does conduct market research, but for common items of supply like the industrial supplies under your NAICS code 423840, they often rely on historical procurement data and existing vendor lists instead of issuing new sources sought notices. While Dave is right that DIBBS goes straight to RFQ or IFB for many parts, the contracting officer still has to ensure a fair and reasonable price according to FAR 15.404. This means they are looking at past prices, market conditions, and competition. For you, this means focusing on competitive pricing and understanding the specific requirements of each DIBBS solicitation.

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answered Marcus T. Verified vendorOwner, janitorial and facilities firm · Columbus, OH · 398 rep
Thanks for clarifying. So for DLA, it sounds like I should focus on setting up alerts for my [NAICS code](https://govcon.forum/glossary/naics-code/) on DIBBS and then comparing my pricing against the historical data they're using to ensure a fair and reasonable price. · Jordan P. ·
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DLA generally goes straight to an RFQ or IFB on DIBBS for parts, so you will not see many sources sought notices there. DLA uses the DIBBS system for searching, viewing, and submitting secure quotes on Requests for Quotations for DLA items of supply, and for viewing RFPs, Invitations for Bid, and awards. My company sells fasteners, fittings, and MRO parts to DLA through DIBBS. I put in about 2,000 quotes a year and get around 300 awards. The DLA process for parts is usually direct to solicitation because they are buying specific National Stock Number (NSN) items. They often have established sources or know what they need, which reduces the need for extensive market research through sources sought notices.

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answered Dave H. Verified vendorParts distributor, DLA and DIBBS · Dayton, OH · 228 rep
Thanks, Dave. This is good to know about DIBBS going straight to IFB or RFQ. I will focus on those and look into how to bid on NSN items. My company has the equipment to handle MRO contracts. · Jordan P. ·

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Sign up to answerCite the FAR clause or procurement code where you can.

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