The DLA no-bid list is a report the Defense Logistics Agency posts of solicitations that closed without an acceptable quote. Each line names the item, usually by NSN, so a small supplier can see parts DLA still needs and could not buy. Treat the list as a snapshot: check whether the item has a new open RFQ on DIBBS, read the approved source list, then decide whether to quote. FedOpp watches the no-bid list and flags items that are open again on DIBBS.
What is on the DLA no-bid list?
DLA buying sites publish no-bid (also called no-quote) reports as downloadable spreadsheets on dla.mil. A line typically shows the solicitation number, the NSN, the item name and the buying office. The report covers solicitations that closed with no quote DLA could accept, which can mean nobody quoted, or the quotes that came in were not from an approved source or were not acceptable.
Why does the no-bid list matter to a small supplier?
- Demand is proven. DLA already tried to buy the part.
- Competition may be thin. No acceptable quote came in last time.
- The item often comes back. DLA may re-solicit it, and you can be ready when it does.
There is a catch. An item can sit on the list because it is hard to make, has a restrictive approved source list, needs drawings that are not released, or carries first-article and packaging costs that make the price unattractive. The list tells you where to look, not what to quote.
How to use the DLA no-bid list, step by step
- Download the latest no-bid report from the DLA site that published it and note the date. Older reports go stale fast.
- Filter by the FSC codes you can make or source. The first four digits of an NSN are its FSC.
- For each NSN, run an NSN search on DIBBS to see whether a new RFQ is open.
- Read the approved source list and the AMSC code. If the AMSC does not allow alternates and you are not an approved source, skip it.
- Check the award history to see what DLA paid before and for what quantity.
- Check packaging, first-article and drawing requirements, then price it.
- Quote on DIBBS before the RFQ closes.
Common mistakes with the no-bid list
- Quoting from the spreadsheet without checking that the RFQ is open again.
- Ignoring the approved source list.
- Pricing without the packaging and first-article costs.
- Working from a report that is months old.
How does FedOpp help with the DLA no-bid list?
FedOpp is an AI Chief Contracting Officer for small parts suppliers bidding federal work. It watches DLA DIBBS, SAM.gov and prime subcontract notices, reads each solicitation, answers bid/no-bid questions and puts NSN and CAGE research in one place. FedOpp costs $199/month after a 7-day free trial, plus $49/month per extra user (a $55/month DIBBS-only plan is also available), and you submit every quote yourself. FedOpp reads the no-bid list alongside open DIBBS RFQs, flags no-bid items that are open again and match your Match Profile, and shows NSN and award history next to each one. Ask CCO, the AI Chief Contracting Officer, answers questions like "Can I quote this without being an approved source?" from the solicitation text. FedOpp shows the source and date of every government record.
Frequently asked questions
What is the DLA no-bid list?
A report the Defense Logistics Agency posts of solicitations that closed without an acceptable quote, listed by NSN and solicitation number.
Where do I find the DLA no-bid list?
DLA buying sites post no-bid or no-quote reports as downloadable spreadsheets on dla.mil. Note the report date, because the list is a snapshot.
Can I quote an item on the no-bid list?
Only if DLA has an open RFQ for it. Check DIBBS for an open solicitation, then confirm you meet the approved source list and AMSC rules.
What's the catch with the DLA no-bid list?
Items are often on the list for a reason: a restrictive approved source list, unreleased drawings, first-article testing or expensive packaging. Research before you quote.
Does FedOpp watch the DLA no-bid list?
Yes. FedOpp flags no-bid items that are open again on DIBBS and fit your Match Profile. You still quote on DIBBS yourself.
How much does FedOpp cost?
$199 per month after a 7-day free trial, plus $49 per month for each extra user.
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Last updated October 21, 2026 by FedOpp.
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