Industry Contracting Guide
Government Contracts for Ports & Maritime
MARAD, Navy NAVFAC, and USCG procure dredging, pier repair, and vessel services. Jones Act compliance is mandatory.
Industry snapshot
- Average contract size
- $1M–$500M+
- Common certifications
- ABS · USCG Subchapter L · OSHA-30
Common government buyers
- Department of the Navy (Navy)
Maritime power projection and amphibious operations
Typical contract types
- IDIQ
- FFP
- Cost-plus
Challenges to expect
- Jones Act vessel rules
- Davis-Bacon
- Environmental dredging permits
Where the opportunities are right now
- USACE dredging cycles
- Navy waterfront repair
- USCG cutter sustainment
Most relevant NAICS codes
- NAICS 237990 — Other Heavy Construction
- NAICS 336611 — Ship Building & Repair
States with the most ports & maritime contracting activity
FAQs
- What agencies buy the most ports & maritime services?
- Top federal buyers for ports & maritime include Department of the Navy, USCG, MARAD.
- What is the typical contract size in ports & maritime?
- Average federal contract size in ports & maritime ranges $1M–$500M+, with the largest awards typically flowing through IDIQ MATOC pools and BPAs.
- Which NAICS codes apply to ports & maritime?
- The most relevant NAICS codes are 237990 (Other Heavy Construction); 336611 (Ship Building & Repair); 488330 ().
- What certifications matter most in ports & maritime contracting?
- Common gating certifications include ABS, USCG Subchapter L, OSHA-30. Set-aside certifications (8(a), HUBZone, WOSB, SDVOSB) layer on top for small businesses.
- What are the biggest challenges for new entrants?
- Jones Act vessel rules; Davis-Bacon; Environmental dredging permits. These are surmountable but should be priced into your B&P investment.