DHS awards $321K for 103 rugged barcode scanners to V3GATE, LLC for FEMA warehouse operations

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $321,037 ($321.0K)

Contractor: V3gate, LLC

Awarding Agency: Department of Homeland Security

Start Date: 2025-11-24

End Date: 2026-04-30

Contract Duration: 157 days

Daily Burn Rate: $2.0K/day

Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION AFTER EXCLUSION OF SOURCES

Number of Offers Received: 2

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE

Sector: Other

Official Description: CONTRACTOR TO PROVIDE ONE HUNDRED THREE (103) RUGGED, LONG-RANGE, HANDHELD BARCODE SCANNERS WITH PIV CARD READER CAPABILITY TO UTILIZE WITHIN ITS WAREHOUSE MANAGEMENT MODULE IN FEMA WAREHOUSE FACILITIES. DEVICES SHALL MEET OR EXCEED THE SPECS OF THE

Place of Performance

Location: FORT WORTH, TARRANT County, TEXAS, 76115

State: Texas Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Department of Homeland Security obligated $321,036.58 to V3GATE, LLC for work described as: CONTRACTOR TO PROVIDE ONE HUNDRED THREE (103) RUGGED, LONG-RANGE, HANDHELD BARCODE SCANNERS WITH PIV CARD READER CAPABILITY TO UTILIZE WITHIN ITS WAREHOUSE MANAGEMENT MODULE IN FEMA WAREHOUSE FACILITIES. DEVICES SHALL MEET OR EXCEED THE SPECS OF THE Key points: 1. The contract focuses on essential warehouse management tools, indicating a need for reliable inventory tracking. 2. The use of PIV card readers suggests enhanced security protocols for accessing sensitive warehouse data. 3. The fixed-price contract type aims to control costs and provide budget certainty for the agency. 4. The delivery order structure implies this is part of a larger indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract. 5. The relatively small award amount suggests this is a targeted procurement for specific operational needs.

Value Assessment

Rating: good

The award of $321,036.58 for 103 rugged barcode scanners appears reasonable given the specialized nature of the equipment, which includes PIV card reader capability. While direct comparable contract data for this specific configuration is limited, the per-unit cost of approximately $3,117 falls within a plausible range for high-durability, secure mobile computing devices. The firm-fixed-price structure provides cost control, and the limited number of units suggests a focused operational requirement rather than a broad deployment.

Cost Per Unit: Approximately $3,117 per unit.

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: full-and-open

This contract was awarded under full and open competition after exclusion of sources, indicating that multiple vendors were likely solicited and had the opportunity to bid. The presence of two bidders suggests a competitive environment, though the specific details of the bidding process and the number of proposals received are not provided. A competitive process generally leads to better price discovery and value for the government.

Taxpayer Impact: The competitive nature of this procurement is beneficial for taxpayers, as it likely resulted in a more favorable price compared to a sole-source award.

Public Impact

Warehouse personnel within FEMA facilities will benefit from enhanced inventory management capabilities. The contract delivers rugged, long-range handheld barcode scanners essential for efficient warehouse operations. The primary geographic impact is within FEMA warehouse facilities, specifically in Texas. The procurement supports the operational workforce by providing necessary tools for their daily tasks.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Potential for vendor lock-in if this is a specialized system with limited interoperability.
Dependence on a single vendor for future maintenance and upgrades of these specific devices.
Risk of obsolescence if technology advances rapidly and these devices cannot be easily updated or replaced.

Positive Signals

Use of rugged devices ensures durability and longevity in demanding warehouse environments.
Inclusion of PIV card readers enhances security for accessing sensitive warehouse data.
Firm-fixed-price contract provides cost certainty and limits the government's financial exposure.

Sector Analysis

This contract falls within the broader IT services sector, specifically focusing on specialized hardware for supply chain and logistics management. The market for rugged mobile computing devices is competitive, with numerous vendors offering solutions tailored for industrial and government use. The demand for such devices is driven by the need for efficient data capture and management in challenging environments, such as warehouses and field operations. Comparable spending benchmarks would typically involve other government procurements for similar ruggedized scanners or mobile data terminals.

Small Business Impact

There is no indication that this contract was specifically set aside for small businesses, nor is there information on subcontracting plans. Given the nature of the product (specialized hardware), it is possible that larger manufacturers are involved, with V3GATE, LLC acting as a reseller or integrator. Further analysis would be needed to determine the extent of small business participation.

Oversight & Accountability

The contract is subject to standard federal procurement oversight. As a delivery order under a potential IDIQ, oversight would involve monitoring performance against the contract terms and ensuring timely delivery. The firm-fixed-price nature simplifies financial oversight. Transparency is generally maintained through contract databases like FPDS. The Inspector General for DHS would have jurisdiction over any potential fraud, waste, or abuse related to this award.

Related Government Programs

FEMA Warehouse Management Systems
Department of Homeland Security Supply Chain Management
IT Hardware Procurement
Mobile Data Terminals
PIV Card Enabled Devices

Risk Flags

Potential for vendor lock-in
Device obsolescence risk
Security vulnerability if not maintained
Dependence on specific hardware configuration

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Department of Homeland Security awarded $321,036.58 to V3GATE, LLC. CONTRACTOR TO PROVIDE ONE HUNDRED THREE (103) RUGGED, LONG-RANGE, HANDHELD BARCODE SCANNERS WITH PIV CARD READER CAPABILITY TO UTILIZE WITHIN ITS WAREHOUSE MANAGEMENT MODULE IN FEMA WAREHOUSE FACILITIES. DEVICES SHALL MEET OR EXCEED THE SPECS OF THE

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is V3GATE, LLC.

Which agency awarded this contract?

Awarding agency: Department of Homeland Security (Federal Emergency Management Agency).

What is the total obligated amount?

The obligated amount is $321,036.58.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2025-11-24. End: 2026-04-30.

What is the track record of V3GATE, LLC in providing similar ruggedized hardware to federal agencies?

Information regarding V3GATE, LLC's specific track record in providing ruggedized barcode scanners with PIV card reader capabilities to federal agencies is not detailed in the provided data. A comprehensive assessment would require reviewing their past performance on similar contracts, including client satisfaction, delivery timeliness, and adherence to specifications. Examining contract databases for previous awards to V3GATE, LLC for comparable equipment would offer insights into their experience and reliability in this niche market. Understanding their history with secure device integration, such as PIV card readers, is also crucial for evaluating their suitability for this FEMA requirement.

How does the per-unit cost of these scanners compare to similar market offerings?

The per-unit cost of approximately $3,117 for these rugged, long-range handheld barcode scanners with PIV card reader capability is at the higher end for mobile computing devices, but potentially justified by the specialized features and ruggedization. Standard industrial barcode scanners can range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars. However, the inclusion of PIV card reader capability, long-range functionality, and rugged construction for demanding warehouse environments significantly increases the cost. Benchmarking against specific government contracts for similar PIV-enabled rugged devices or consulting industry pricing for enterprise-grade mobile computers with these features would provide a more precise comparison. Without direct market data for identical configurations, it's difficult to definitively state if this price is high or low, but it suggests a premium for specialized, secure hardware.

What are the primary risks associated with the use of these specific barcode scanners in FEMA warehouses?

Primary risks include potential technical failures or malfunctions of the devices, especially given the rugged requirements which can sometimes introduce complexity. Obsolescence is another risk; technology evolves rapidly, and these specialized scanners might become outdated before their expected lifecycle ends. Security vulnerabilities, although mitigated by PIV card readers, could still exist if the devices' firmware or operating systems are not properly maintained and updated. Furthermore, reliance on a single vendor for these specific devices could lead to vendor lock-in, making future replacements or upgrades more costly and complex. Ensuring adequate training for warehouse staff to effectively use the new devices and troubleshoot common issues is also critical to mitigate operational risks.

What is the expected impact of these scanners on FEMA's warehouse operational efficiency?

The introduction of 103 rugged, long-range handheld barcode scanners is expected to significantly enhance FEMA's warehouse operational efficiency. These devices should streamline inventory tracking, reduce manual data entry errors, and speed up processes like receiving, put-away, picking, and shipping. The long-range capability allows for scanning items from greater distances, improving workflow in large warehouse spaces. The PIV card reader integration adds a layer of security and accountability, ensuring that only authorized personnel can access and update inventory data, thereby improving data integrity. Overall, these tools are designed to modernize warehouse management, leading to more accurate inventory counts, faster order fulfillment, and better resource utilization.

How does this contract align with FEMA's overall IT and logistics modernization efforts?

This contract aligns with broader efforts in federal agencies, including FEMA, to modernize IT infrastructure and logistics operations. By procuring advanced hardware like rugged barcode scanners with PIV card capabilities, FEMA is investing in tools that support digital transformation within its supply chain. This move towards more sophisticated data capture and management systems is crucial for improving situational awareness, response times, and overall effectiveness during disaster relief operations. It reflects a commitment to leveraging technology to enhance the efficiency and security of critical functions, such as managing essential supplies and equipment stored in warehouses.

Industry Classification

NAICS: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services › Computer Systems Design and Related Services › Other Computer Related Services

Product/Service Code: COMM/DETECT/COHERENT RADIATION

Competition & Pricing

Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION AFTER EXCLUSION OF SOURCES

Solicitation Procedures: SUBJECT TO MULTIPLE AWARD FAIR OPPORTUNITY

Offers Received: 2

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE (J)

Evaluated Preference: NONE

Contractor Details

Address: 555 MIDDLE CREEK PKWY STE 120, COLORADO SPRINGS, CO, 80921

Business Categories: Category Business, Hispanic American Owned Business, Limited Liability Corporation, Minority Owned Business, Partnership or Limited Liability Partnership, Service Disabled Veteran Owned Business, Small Business, Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business, Veteran Owned Business

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $321,037

Exercised Options: $321,037

Current Obligation: $321,037

Contract Characteristics

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES

Cost or Pricing Data: NO

Parent Contract

Parent Award PIID: NNG15SD27B

IDV Type: GWAC

Timeline