Washington's Department of Energy on Friday opened a bidding window for the exchange of up to 17 million barrels of crude from its Strategic Petroleum Reserve.
The proposal follows a June attempt that attracted only 500,000 barrels from companies, who were required to return 24% more crude as a premium. The terms are tough.
The move is part of a broader international package announced in March, where the United States pledged 172 million barrels and the IEA coordinated 400 million barrels worldwide.
Energy markets remain strained; Brent crude traded around $106 a barrel amid ongoing Gulf shipping attacks and Strait of Hormuz disruptions, keeping supply concerns high.
Companies now have a limited window to submit bids; the Department will evaluate proposals and decide which offers to accept, aiming to stabilize fuel prices before the next IEA meeting.