IFB-33-5004_QnA.pdf

IFB 33-5004 Q&A

5/9/2025

Question 1: I am interested in bidding on these cars but wonder if you can provide the wheel reports for the listed cars? (This report would come from RailInc under the EHMS application)

Answer 1: Please see the attached wheel report, which has been uploaded as part of IFB 33-5004. Railcars are required to be listed on a wheel report when they pass over a detector and trigger an alert that is based on predefined parameters. These parameters determine the severity of the wheel condition and are classified into the following levels:

- Warning – indicates a minor issue that may require attention but does not necessitate immediate repair.

- Opportunistic – indicates a defect that has reached a stage where the wheel should be replaced if it goes on a repair track.

- Condemnable – indicates a wheel defect that requires immediate replacement for continued safe operation.

If a rail car is not listed on the report, it does not have a documented repair alert. The wheel report was provided to the Defense Logistics Agency by RailInc. Further questions regarding the wheel report should be directed at RailInc.

As specified in section A.3 – Item Description, IFB 33-5004, these rail cars are offered as-is/where-is with no guarantee or warranty, express or implied, for future use as a railcar.

Question 2: The document states the car must be removed from the property without downsizing and without the use of the rail, however, I do not believe this is possible. Can you please advise how you envision the removal of this railcar with the given constraints or whether there is an avenue to allow downsizing for this railcar?

Answer 2: The IFB has been amended to indicate that downsizing is authorized at the Pueblo site. Please refer to the updated attachment.

Question 3: It is customary for the car owner to request a OTMA which involves submitting a request to the FRA after which the FRA will want the cars inspected and if pass inspection the OTMA would be granted. It’s undetermined about the time it takes to complete this process but very doubtful this can all happen prior to the bid deadline date. Do you know if the OTMA for the movable cars will be provided for us?

Answer 3: As specified in sections A.7 – Loading and Removal and A.8 – Information on obtaining a one-time rail movement permit, IFB 33-5004, the winning bidder is responsible for obtaining the OTMA. The removal period is six months. OTMA processing typically takes 3–5 days and is valid for approximately 30 days. If an OTMA cannot be obtained, the purchaser will be responsible for alternative removal methods, including authorized downsizing (where permitted) or other approved means.

NO FURTHER QUESTIONS WILL BE ANSWERED AFTER 5/12/2025