Treasury's $1.2M ECF Thread Order to Crane & Co. for Paper Mills, awarded without competition

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $1,198,800 ($1.2M)

Contractor: Crane & CO., Inc.

Awarding Agency: Department of the Treasury

Start Date: 2026-04-02

End Date: 2026-06-24

Contract Duration: 83 days

Daily Burn Rate: $14.4K/day

Competition Type: NOT COMPETED

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE

Sector: Other

Official Description: ECF JUNE 2026 NXG THREAD ORDER

Place of Performance

Location: BOSTON, SUFFOLK County, MASSACHUSETTS, 02108

State: Massachusetts Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Department of the Treasury obligated $1.2 million to CRANE & CO., INC. for work described as: ECF JUNE 2026 NXG THREAD ORDER Key points: 1. Significant contract value of $1.2 million for specialized paper. 2. Sole-source award raises questions about price discovery and potential alternatives. 3. Focus on paper manufacturing highlights a niche but essential government supply chain. 4. The contract duration of 83 days suggests a focused, short-term need.

Value Assessment

Rating: questionable

The contract's firm fixed price of $1,198,800 for 83 days of delivery order for paper is difficult to assess without a competitive benchmark. The lack of competition makes it hard to determine if this price is optimal.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: sole-source

This contract was not competed, indicating a sole-source award. Without competition, the government may not have achieved the best possible price or explored alternative solutions.

Taxpayer Impact: The lack of competition could lead to taxpayers paying more than necessary for these paper products.

Public Impact

Ensures the supply of specialized paper for government operations. Potential for higher costs due to the absence of competitive bidding. Highlights reliance on specific suppliers for critical materials.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Lack of competition
Potential for overpayment
Reliance on single supplier

Positive Signals

Ensures timely delivery of essential materials
Clear contract terms (firm fixed price)

Sector Analysis

This contract falls under the Paper (except Newsprint) Mills sector, specifically NAICS code 322121. Spending in this sector is generally stable, driven by demand for various paper products for printing and other industrial uses.

Small Business Impact

There is no indication that small businesses were involved in this sole-source contract, either as prime contractors or subcontractors.

Oversight & Accountability

The Bureau of Engraving and Printing awarded this contract. Oversight should focus on the justification for the sole-source award and ensuring the price is fair and reasonable.

Related Government Programs

Paper (except Newsprint) Mills
Department of the Treasury Contracting
Bureau of Engraving and Printing Programs

Risk Flags

Sole-source award
Potential for price gouging
Lack of transparency in award justification
No small business participation identified

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Department of the Treasury awarded $1.2 million to CRANE & CO., INC.. ECF JUNE 2026 NXG THREAD ORDER

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is CRANE & CO., INC..

Which agency awarded this contract?

Awarding agency: Department of the Treasury (Bureau of Engraving and Printing).

What is the total obligated amount?

The obligated amount is $1.2 million.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2026-04-02. End: 2026-06-24.

What is the justification for awarding this contract on a sole-source basis?

The justification for a sole-source award typically involves unique capabilities, proprietary technology, or urgent needs that cannot be met by other vendors. Without further information, it's difficult to ascertain the specific reason, but it warrants scrutiny to ensure it aligns with federal procurement regulations and serves the best interest of the government.

What is the risk associated with a sole-source procurement for paper products?

The primary risk of a sole-source procurement for paper products is the potential for inflated pricing due to the absence of competitive pressure. This can lead to inefficient use of taxpayer funds. Additionally, it may limit the government's access to innovative solutions or alternative suppliers that could offer better value or quality.

How does this contract contribute to the overall effectiveness of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing's operations?

This contract is essential for ensuring the Bureau of Engraving and Printing has the necessary specialized paper for its operations, likely related to currency or security document production. The timely delivery of these materials directly impacts the agency's ability to fulfill its mission effectively. However, the effectiveness is diminished if the price paid is not competitive.

Industry Classification

NAICS: Manufacturing › Pulp, Paper, and Paperboard Mills › Paper (except Newsprint) Mills

Product/Service Code: NONMETALLIC FABRICATED MATERIALS

Competition & Pricing

Extent Competed: NOT COMPETED

Solicitation Procedures: ONLY ONE SOURCE

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE (J)

Evaluated Preference: NONE

Contractor Details

Parent Company: Crane & CO. Inc.

Address: 1 BEACON ST FL 17, BOSTON, MA, 02108

Business Categories: Category Business, Corporate Entity Not Tax Exempt, Manufacturer of Goods, Not Designated a Small Business, Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $1,198,800

Exercised Options: $1,198,800

Current Obligation: $1,198,800

Contract Characteristics

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES

Cost or Pricing Data: NO

Parent Contract

Parent Award PIID: 2031ZA20D00001

IDV Type: IDC

Timeline