Q&A's_2.pdf

1. For staffing purposes and fundamental pricing requirements, what is the estimated trip quantity or frequency per month or per year for each location and/or trip listed on the Schedule?

There is no set number of trips; it depends on the volume of samples each client needs to have tested.

Last year a total of 194 trips were made for 19 different trip combinations (i.e. line items).

Many trips (line items) were not made and the remainder were between 5 – 10.

Below I’ve provided some examples from last years contract:

• Line item 01 13 trips

• Line item 02 2 trips

• Line item 04 59 trips

• Line item 13 40 trips

• Line item 15 29 trips

• Line item 26 8 trips

2. We reviewed the Q&A posted 3/20/19, but would still like clarification on the following: Is the

Mileage Chart and rates and figures therein intended to be a contractor pricing guide, or pricing requirements to be followed precisely?

Pricing requirement to be followed precisely.

3. Is the contractor required to supply dry ice for sample transport and storage?

Refrigeration is not required but materials do need protection from the elements and kept dry.

Drivers will need to be able to lift up to 50 lbs.

4. What are the vehicle sizes required?

Vehicle size is up to the contractor but should be sufficient for carrying multiple 50 lbs nylon bags.

5. Will this contract be SCA enforced? After reviewing the solicitation on FBO, it contains language and dollar values regarding the Service Contract Act. This solicitation stipulates $12.61 minimum wage for 31043 – driver courier, $4.48 minimum H&W, Sick Time/Vacation.

Do you verify now that those are the minimum required rates to be performed on this contract upon award?

Yes the Service Contract Act (SCA) applies. The contractor shall review the Statement of Work and the actual job duties and compare them to the occupations listed on the Wage Determination to determine the SCA classification.

6. SBA Final Rule regarding FAR Clause 52.219-14 Limitations on Subcontracting, dated June 30, 2016, reclassifies Independent Contractor drivers as Subcontractors — 13 CFR 125.6 “Work performed by an independent contractor shall be considered a subcontract.” Please inform us how the USDA would like us to proceed upon award regarding this rule change given that it will affect our offer regarding pricing and performance.

Small businesses subcontracting to small businesses do not count towards the limitations of subcontracting.