Questions regarding 12639523Q0147(1).docx

Questions regarding 12639523Q0147

1. Do I understand from Clause 452.216-73 that the base year (12 mos of service), minimum contract amount is $100,000. Or is the $100,000 for the full contract term including optional terms. ANSWER: During the base period specified in FAR clause 52.216‐18, Ordering, the Government shall place orders totaling a minimum of $100,000.

2. Acknowledgement of solicitation requirements . . . is this simply a statement saying we understand the requirements that are laid out in the solicitation? Or something further like restating all requirements? ANSWER: (if applicable) Yes, is just acknowledging any amendments done to the solicitation.

3. Representations and certifications in SAM. We are “current” in SAM and have a Unique Identifier (that does not expire for another 10 months). Does this meet the requirement? Is there anything additional we must do in SAM (or otherwise) to certify as a small business (we fall under the revenue threshold but I didn’t see in the solicitation where we declare that we are a small business). ANSWER: Yes, this meets the requirement. If the Offeror has not completed the annual representations and certifications electronically, the Offeror shall complete only paragraphs (c) through (v)) of this provision (pages 55 thru 69).

4. Turn around times. I wanted to clarify this. I would assume we would count when the order is entered into the secured portal until results are available in the secured portal. So if order entered on Monday, shipped to us on Tuesday and Wednesday we provided results, the Turnaround Time would be two business days? Would the same be true if order entered on Friday, shipped on Monday, and results provided on Tuesday? Two business days? ANSWER: Turnaround times (TAT) is defined as the time interval between when the specimen is picked up to the time the results have been delivered to NBAF. The Contractor shall transport NBAF lab specimens collected onsite from NBAF to the contractor’s laboratory facility. The Contractor shall deliver test results and/or reports to the USDA COR or designated authority via secure portal, encrypted electronic email, or fax within the turnaround times (TAT) established in the contract for that test, Monday through Friday.