Vessel Transport

Montana State University’s MilTech program seeks a qualified commercial shipping provider to move an Autonomous Low‑Profile Vessel (ALPV) from a Southern California port to the Port of Naha, Okinawa, Japan, in support of U.S. Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory exercises. The contractor must arrange a U.S.-flagged ocean‑freight vessel, provide crane services for loading and off‑loading, handle hazardous materials (lead‑acid batteries, diesel residues, fluids), supply all required customs documentation, and be ITAR‑compliant. The contract includes a one‑year term with a preferred delivery of 8 May 2026 and a final delivery deadline of 1 June 2026. Bidders must sign an NDA, submit a current W‑9, provide three recent references, and register in the university’s SmartBuyMSU e‑procurement system. • Transport a 71‑ft ALPV (≈19.5 t) plus cradle from Southern California to Naha, Okinawa. • Use a U.S.-flagged vessel; provide crane services at both origin and destination. • Manage hazardous‑material handling, customs paperwork, and ITAR compliance. • Deliver by 8 May 2026 (preferred) or no later than 1 June 2026; contract term is one year. • Required documentation: NDA, W‑9, references, registration in SmartBuyMSU, and compliance certifications.