Federal contracting can seem like a maze from the outside. Acronyms, portals, set-asides, certifications — it’s enough to make most small business owners look the other way.But for a certified SDVOSB courier, the federal contracting system is one of the most powerful revenue channels available. Here’s how it actually works.Step One: SAM.gov RegistrationBefore a small business can compete for any federal contract, it must be registered in SAM.gov — the System for Award Management. This is the federal government’s primary vendor database. Registration is free and must be renewed annually.Your SAM.gov profile includes your business information, NAICS codes (industry classifications), and certifications. Contracting officers use this database to find and verify vendors.Step Two: SDVOSB CertificationTo compete for SDVOSB set-aside contracts, you must be certified through the SBA VetCert program. Self-certification is no longer valid for federal set-aside bids. The certification process requires documentation including your DD-214 and VA disability rating letter.Step Three: Finding OpportunitiesFederal contract opportunities are posted on SAM.gov. Bid-match services can alert you when solicitations matching your NAICS codes and capabilities are posted. For courier and logistics companies, NAICS code 492110 covers courier and express delivery services.Step Four: Teaming and PartnershipsMany federal contracts require capabilities beyond what a single small business can provide. Teaming agreements — where an SDVOSB acts as the prime contractor and partners with larger companies as subcontractors — allow small businesses to compete for larger contracts while maintaining their certification requirements.The prime contractor must perform at least 51% of the work. This protects the integrity of the set-aside program and ensures the certified veteran actually runs the operation.Step Five: Performance and GrowthWinning a federal contract is the beginning, not the end. Performance on initial contracts builds past performance records that make future bids stronger. One contract leads to another.Schaner Logistics is actively pursuing federal courier contracts through SAM.gov, SBA VetCert certification, and strategic teaming partnerships. The pipeline is being built — one relationship and one contract at a time.