Q&A - Amendment 0006.pdf

Question Nos.

Question Answer Posted Amend

The Government intends to award on initial offers but reserves the right to conduct discussions. The Government will make multiple awards to the qualifying offerors. The Government has the complete discretion to determine the number of awards for each region.

Each Region will be evaluated independently from all other Regions. Each Offeror will receive one award to include all Regions in which they are found responsible. Proposals that take exception to any term of the solicitation will not be considered for award; therefore, any exception to the Government’s terms must be resolved prior to the solicitation closing date.

I am unclear about the HSP sourcing taken account the regions. Meaning, is the intent 1 HSP be selected per region or is it possible multiple HSP’s could be selected per region ?

The intent is to select multiple HSPs per region. A00002

If a port does not offer something (i.e. min 500 pax water ferry ) do we need to calculate to make it work in any case, such as bringing the water ferry in from another location to the hiring port ?

The HSP is responsible for meeting the requirements of the RTOP. The HSP determines how to ensure the service is available pursuant to the performance work statement (PWS). At the time of the RTOP, the contractor can suggest an alternative method but if the RTOP is not changed, the contractor will otherwise have to follow the RTOP. Therefore, in the example provided if the requirement is for a min 600 pax water ferry and the port does not offer this, the HSP can request whether an alternative method such as two (2) 300 pax water ferries is allowed to be proposed.

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3 For each country, what are the specific ports that will require service ?

The Government does not specify at the basic contract level the ports to be serviced in each region. Only the region and corresponding countries are identified. The specific ports will be identified at the RTOP level.

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4 For services that could expereince price increases due to market / economic conditions Pricing is not required at the basic contract level thus allowing offerors to better adjust pricing to reflect current market conditions at the task order level.

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5 Is the mobile crane service for land or sea?

Please note the PWS references both shore and floating crane. The specific type will be identified at the time the RTOP is issued.

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6 What type of services are included in the Pratique Agricultural services? This will be further defined at the RTOP level. A00002

Is the offeror to insert pricing as a full package for all regions, or pricing within the excel sheets provided per location? And if so, are we to price per SubCLIN/ELIN? Or fill the cell "Port Total" on the excel sheet as a lot price and not a task order price?

Pricing is not required at the basic contract level thus allowing offerors to better adjust pricing to reflect current market conditions at the task order level.

A00002

We have more than 250 different Sub-Agents spread around the globe and they cannot be considered First-tier Subcontractors for the above detailed reasons. Furthermore, as per the Global Husbanding Support Services Contract, all the contractual responsibility is solely and exclusively on the Contractor, in view of that, we would deem correct not to provide the information required at point 4. of Section L-2 but, alternatively, we would like to propose that all Contractors satisfying above mentioned clauses, should be responsible for issuing a Certified Self-statement declaring that all Sub-agents that will be appointed are duly authorized to operate and work in a given location.

The requirement to include the subcontractor information will be removed from the basic RFP.

A00002

For HSP Global Region 20 (Italy), the required “self-declaration” to be submitted in accordance with DPR 445/2000, has to be submitted immediately with our Offer, or after the eventual award or at RTOP level, for each port visit?

The self-declaration must be submitted with the RTOP proposal - not at the basic award level.

A00002

We have downloaded all the attached files.

Please note that the excel files have NO place for us to put our unit prices. Kindly advise the soonest.

Pricing is not required at the basic contract level thus allowing offerors to better adjust pricing to reflect current market conditions at the task order level.

A00002

The ITEM Numbers on pdf file N68171-20-R-0001 are not accurately written for us to indicate the prices from EXHIBIT A to EXHIBIT Z.

Pricing is not required at the basic contract level thus allowing offerors to better adjust pricing to reflect current market conditions at the task order level.

A00002

Calendar Days - for example crane charges are per DAY as measure of unit. If ship will order 1 lift only for that day is there minimum hours or it will still be 1DAY chargeable.

There are no minimum hours; therefore, a crane ordered will be charged and paid on a daily basis. Per Schedule Note no. 8, a calendar day begins at 0000 and ends at 2359. Equipment and/or labor are required to be available and immediately capable of operation during the entire timeframe. The ship may provide estimated timeframes in which the ship expects to use a particular service, but these estimates are only to assist with planning. Regardless if a timeframe is provided, the services shall be the same price for the entire day.

A00002

Tug Services - per JOB. If Tugs are ordered and standing by for the arrival / or departure and its being delay, will charges just continue and be calculated in total after job complete?

Some countries have PT (Port Tariff) so invoice will be submitted with the final costing , some countries booking is not PT and booking done on estimated hours for this job. How it would be calculated and charged? Normally ships will require 2 Tugs , so in exhibit / RTOP it will be reflected 2 JOB in and 2 JOB out?

The HSP is responsible for providing a price for the services in accordance with the RTOP regardless if the services are priced differently by the port. Please review the PWS in regards to Tug services and the definition of the "job" - it is not identified as "job per tug" but as arrival tug services and departure tug services. HSP should include any foreseeable causes of delay in its price. Specific delays or issues, which may arise, will be reviewed to determine responsibility.

A00004

Brow Services - per DAY. Understand all services included in set up, however in circumstances where few days after arrival ships decided or weather conditions worsened, brow must be re-positioned and entirely new set of services (i.e. crane, forklift, manpower) must be called in. How would that be chargeable as it will not count set up on arrival or departure, but few days in use already. Some countries will charge separately as totally new job. Re-positioning will no be applicable as its not concurrent job while arrival or departure.

The HSP is responsible for meeting the requirements of the RTOP. The HSP determines how to ensure the service is available pursuant to the performance work statement (PWS) and should include any foreseeable costs in its price. As per Schedule Note (2), prices shall be inclusive of performance at night, overtime, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, Holidays, performance under heavy rain and other inclement weather, and service to tankers and ships carrying explosives, as well as any cost associated with all necessary insurance (including Admiralty insurance) as required by local laws, licenses and permits or incurred to comply with applicable laws, codes, and regulations, in connection with the performance of the work.

Anything perceived outside the original RTOP needs to be raised with the Contracting Officer at the RTOP level. Any pricing questions after task order performance will be reviewed in accordance with schedule notes on pricing and the

PWS.

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Amendment 0006 N68171‐20‐R‐0001 Q&A ‐ 3

Line Handlers- per JOB. In some circumstances on arrival or departure ships delay for more than 1-3hrs and line handlers are standing by on scheduled timing, how will their time be chargeable as JOB includes immediate current job not 4-6hrs sitting waiting on the pier.

Booking for services is done hourly in some countries and any ships delay may be resulting in multiple job booking. Man power will be released and booked again if delay is greater than 2-4hrs (as example). How this services will be chargeable.

The HSP is responsible for providing a price for the services in accordance with the RTOP regardless if the services are priced differently by the port. The HSP determines how to ensure the service is available pursuant to the performance work statement (PWS) and should include any foreseeable costs in its price. Anything perceived outside the original RTOP needs to be raised with the Contracting Office at the RTOP level. Any pricing questions after task order performance will be reviewed in accordance with schedule notes on pricing and the PWS.

A00004

In Solicitation each region Exhibit doesn't have columns to include prices / P1 or P2 as well as comments. How to provide process per Region per country?

Pricing is not required at the basic contract level thus allowing offerors to better adjust pricing to reflect current market conditions at the task order level.

A00002

Where do the prices for proposal have to be fulfilled? I´m not sure if the “yellow” cells in the Exhibits Attachments are the right ones. Also, I do not see any formula that shows the totals.

Pricing is not required at the basic contract level thus allowing offerors to better adjust pricing to reflect current market conditions at the task order level.

A00002

18 When might the Q&A be posted in beta.SAM? by 22 Jan 2020 - NEED to REVISE DATE A00002 19 Is the POC list planned for circulation The POC List should be submitted A00004

For services that are based per JOB, how can pricing reflect the actual JOB without knowing the specifics/characteristics of the vessel? Many ports calculate such ELINS basis Gross Tonnage (GT) and that will vary depending on the ship.

The Gross Tonnage information will be available at the task order level. A00002

In Mainland China (PRC, excluding Hong Kong), most of the foreign visiting warships shall berth at People's Liberation Army/Navy (PLA/N) Base. How can our contractor(s) get the permission into their base

This is the responsibility of the HSP to determine access requirements for its employees/subcontractors.

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22 Is it mandatory to use the PLA/N's designated contractors or their equipment and gear?

The HSP must follow port rules and regulations as to use of the ports designated contractors or their equipment and gear.

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How can our contractors liaise with PLA/N in PRC regarding logistic issues: Port information (such as pier configurations, navigational chart, approaching channel data, radio channels, pilot pickup, CHT/Water connectors), vehicle dispatching and special events?

This engagement is between the HSP and the PLA/N. A00004

24 Security issues in PVST in PRC, who is responsible? HSP or PLA/N?

The HSP should work with the PLA/N to determine the security issues in accordance with the force protection requirements of the ship. Per the PWS, the HSP is responsible for arranging the required services as stated in the RTOP.

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25 Can we propose other commercial piers/berth for US Naval vessel visit in PRC?

The HSP should propose in accordance with the RTOP requirements. At the time of the RTOP, the contractor can suggest an alternative method, such as as an alternate pier/berth, but if the RTOP is not changed, the contractor will otherwise have to follow the RTOP. Proposing alternative solutions but must be done within the definition of substitutions of the basic contract per clause H-2.

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26 Are Section B Amounts to be left blank in our submission Yes. Pricing is not required at the basic contract level thus allowing offerors to better adjust pricing to reflect current market conditions at the task order level.

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Schedule Note #2 - If “Pre-positioning/Pre-staging” for vetting can be required up to 5 days prior to ship arrival, then then this should be considered the commencement of the period of performance and the HSP eligible to be paid. How can cancellation of a task order after vetting be done fairly?

As noted in the RFP, the specific RTOP requirements may further define cancellation timeframes if they are outside what is listed in the basic contract. Any pre-vetting or pre-staging timeframes will be part of the RTOP, and the HSP can request additional information from the ordering officer.

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Schedule Note #8 – The second sentence, beginning “Time will”, and sentences 3, 4, & 5 are contradictory. If time begins at 0000 and ends at 2359 on day of delivery/removal regardless of actual time. Please clarify?

Schedule Note no. 8 has been revised to clarify that for hourly rates, time will begin to be measured once the equipment and/or labor is along-side the vessel and is capable of operation, and for daily rates, a calendar day begins at 0000 and ends at 2359.

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Schedule Note #8 - Examples – Who specifically will be available to conduct inspections at 0001 on first day of POP if the ship has not yet arrived? Having services available at 0001 would necessitate prior day mobilization, how would HSP be compensated?

The HSP is to price RTOPs in accordance with the Pricing Notes. The firm fixed price should be inclusive of mobilization and demobilization. The timing definition is to ensure HSPs are aware when services should be available for inspection whether or not they are inspected at that time. Specific instructions may be provided in the RTOP that further clarify timeframes.

A00002

Schedule Note #8 – Task Orders do not advise arrival time of ships, they only advise date in POP, arrival time is obtained from the LOGREQ when available. Is the LOGREQ considered part of the Task Order? How does the HSP proceed if the LOGREQ is not provided

The logreq is not considered part of the task order and may or may not be provided as additional information. Specific arrival time will be provided as part of the RTOP process.

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Schedule Note #13 – Does the minimum guarantee amount of $3,000.00 apply per region or in total to the contract regardless of the number of regions awarded?

This is applicable to the overall contract regardless of how many regions are included in the award.

A00002

PWS 2.1.1 – “HSP’s responsibilities…start prior to the arrival of the ship and continue after the ship’s departure”. This statement is in conflict with the POP of the task order. How can HSP’s be held to an unspecified commitment timeframe? Task orders should have a established start and end date/time if the POP does not apply.

Per the PWS, the HSP is responsible for arranging the required services as stated in the RTOP. The contractor provides firm fixed prices for the overall port visit and ensures the services are available at the date and time specified by the Government.

The HSP is required to take whatever action is necessary prior to the port visit start date to ensure services are available at the time requested. The husbanding management fee defines what should be included as part of that fee including any indirect costs associated with preparation for the port visit. Additionally, when the port visit is completed, the HSP is required to perform the necessary steps to ensure the final invoice is submitted for the port visit.

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PWS 2.1.6.3 – In much of the world, volumetric units of issue are mandated by national/local regulation, host nation military, and/or local industry standards. The “providing vendor” invoices will possibly not be in units of issue stated in the MAC. The HSP has no jurisdiction to mandate MAC units of issue. What procedure will be utilized validate quantities in these cases?

If the HSP provides vender invoices that are in a unit of issue other than what is in the HSP contract, the ordering officer may request the HSP provide a basis for how the vender unit of issue was converted.

A00002

PWS 2.1.6.3 – The unit of issue for Trash is CZ, a volume measurement. In much of the world national/local regulation requires measurement of Trash in KG, a weight measurement. There is no conversion between volume and weight measurements. What procedure will be utilized in these cases?

The ships only calculate in terms of volume. Therefore, the Contractor is responsible for Volume as determined by the RTOP in accordance with the PWS and is required to price accordingly.

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PWS 2.2 Pilot Services & 2.3 Tug Services – How will extraordinary delays in berthing or unberthing due to mechanical, harbor traffic, weather, etc. be handled?

The HSP is responsible for meeting the requirements of the RTOP. The HSP determines how to ensure the service is available pursuant to the performance work statement (PWS) and should include any foreseeable costs in its price. As per Schedule Note (2), prices shall be inclusive of performance at night, overtime, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, Holidays, performance under heavy rain and other inclement weather, and service to tankers and ships carrying explosives, as well as any cost associated with all necessary insurance (including Admiralty insurance) as required by local laws, licenses and permits or incurred to comply with applicable laws, codes, and regulations, in connection with the performance of the work.

Anything perceived outside the original RTOP needs to be raised with the Contracting Officer at the RTOP level. Any pricing questions after task order performance will be reviewed in accordance with schedule notes on pricing and the

PWS.

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PWS 2.7 Trash – Trash that cannot be removed from the ship by ship’s force, i.e. tri-walls, pallets, etc. will required both crane and truck service. HSP’s will need accurate estimates in advance. How will the HSP be advised in advance in order to provide an accurate quote?

The RTOP will include the estimates. A00004

PWS 2.37 & 2.38 - Please advise size differentiation between a Breasting Barge and a Fendering Barge.

The PWS does not define the size of the breasting or fendering barge. The minimum definition for the fendering and breasting barge are stated in the PWS, but the size is dependent on the size of the ship and is left to the HSP to decide based on the size of the ship and the safety elements required per the PWS.

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PWS 2.42 – Drayage does or does not include Hazardous Material which in many locations national regulations and laws required special handling and segregation from non-hazardous material? Frequently, USN shipments are co-mingled requiring additional steps in the handling and storage process. USN is notoriously lax in providing accurate piece, weight, and content of inbound shipments. Prior proper notification of HSP’s concerning inbound Hazardous Material is essential to ensure health protection of HSP and vendor employees.

How will the Government provide?

The Government will provide as much information as possible for drayage requirements to the HSP. If during the course of performing drayage services the HSP finds there is Hazardous material included with the drayage request, then the HSP should immediately notify the Contracting Officer Representative (COR) and Contracting Officer/Ordering Officer.

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PWS 2.42 & 2.43 – Drayage & Lighterage. Drayage is by definition transportation over land while Lighterage is by definition transportation over water. Drayage would transport material to the berth, Lighterage would transport material from berth to ship at anchor. Can these paragraphs be reworded to properly reflect actual definitions?

PWS indicates that drayage is for pierside services while lighterage is for anchorage type services.

A00002

PWS 2.48 Sandbags – If Unit of Issue is DY, how will HSP be notified the quantity of sandbags required?

If sandbags are required, specific information will be provided in the RTOP. A00004

PWS 5.12.1 – Trained Walk-Thru Explosive Detector Operator. Please explain how a walk-thru explosive detector will search “host national vehicles”?

The walk-thru explosive detector operator is responsible to ensure any vehicle including host national vehicles is inspected.

A00002

PWS 5.16.1 – Dive & Vetting, 5.16.1 directs inspection “before ship arrival.” Yet, includes requirement to inspect ship’s hull. How is this possible?

The PWS lists the extent of the requirement. Dive services may be required prior to the ship pulling in as well as when the ship pulls in. Specific information will be provided at the RTOP level.

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PWS 7.2.9 & 7.3.9 – Traffic Violations & Fines. This paragraph makes no sense. The HSP should not be left holding the fine regarding traffic violations and fines incurred by ship’s personnel. HSP’s routinely experience ship’s not notifying us when tickets are received, ship’s hiding tickets until after departure, ship’s refusing to pay tickets, and even “We are leaving, you’ll never see us again; the ticket is yours”. What enforcement mechanism will the Government establish within the contract?

Understanding that traffic violations and fines may not be assessed until after the Ship has left port, notification to the Contracting Officer is required as soon as practicable to coordinate payment by the responsible party.

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PWS 7.2.10 & 7.3.10 – By what mechanism and funding is an HSP to return left items after the ship departs?

If items are left by the ship after the port visit, the HSP must notify the COR and Contracting Officer. The Contracting Officer will make a determination on how to return the items and how that service will be paid.

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45 PWS 7.5 & 7.6 – Does not address water transport to ship’s at anchor Any water transport required for ships at anchor will be addressed separate from these elins.

A00004

Is there any column where we could add the Amount/Cost per Line Item in every "N68171- 20-0001 Exhibit"?

Pricing is not required at the basic contract level thus allowing offerors to better adjust pricing to reflect current market conditions at the task order level.

A00002

Daily Rate: The unit of issue for several services- Forklift, Manlift, Cranes has been changed from "hourly" to "day". In this case it won't be a minimum guaranteed price and the contractor has to include minimum price into the day charge? Please specify the day charge will be from 0800 to 1700 or 24hours? In many cases, customer requires couple hours for the service, but if they have to pay 24hours rate(day charge) it will not be cost effective?

Correct - there is no minimum guarantee. Per Schedule Note no. 8, a calendar day begins at 0000 and ends at 2359. Equipment and/or labor are required to be available and immediately capable of operation during the entire timeframe. Therefore, services will be billed on a daily basis. The ship may provide estimated timeframes in which the ship expects to use a particular service, but these estimates are only to assist with planning. Regardless if a timeframe is provided, the services shall be the same price for the entire day.

A00004

Tug Services: Unit of issue will be "job" instead of hourly. When ships arriving/departing, depending on weather and ship's condition, it could take more hours than average.

Contractors will submit price for this service with average price based on the port tariff. If it takes a way more than average for many reasons(weather, harbor traffic and condition of the ship), contractor has to take price risk since tug association charges based on actual hour.

In this case, can the contractor submit Request for Equitable Adjustment?

To the extent delays are foreseeable at time of RTOP award, those delays should be factored into the price. Just because, the visit takes longer than "average" is not the basis for an equitable adjustment. Extraordinary and unforseeable circumstances are required. Although the HSP may submit a request for an equitable adjustment (REA) or a Claim pursuant to the disputes clause, FAR 52.233-1, the contractor may not be paid additional costs for any delay. Specific delays or issues will be reviewed to determine responsibility.

Volumetric Pricing: The new volumetric pricing will have VMF and VUP. Please see below if our understanding is correct. 3-1. i.g) DDG in port for 5days discharged 200CM of CHT.

VMF: i.g)$1,500.00/day x 5days=$7,500.00. VUP: i.g)$100.00/CM. x 200CM=$20,000.00.

Total:$27,500.00. Also is the VMF include all equipment and labors price?

The equation is correct. The HSP is free to choose whether equipment and labor are included as part of the VMF or the VUP. At the end of the port visit, the HSP will only be entitled to receive payments based on the calculations noted.

A00002

Why Ordering Office could give an HSP direct awards after reviewing available pricing list evaluation? What is the reason in case direct awards required?

There could be multiple reasons why an Contracting Officer/Ordering Officer may need to use the direct award approach, such as urgency, availability, etc. The pricing list, as discussed in H-2 Ordering Procedures, allows for a quick determination in these circumstances. Other issues may also arise, but it is ultimately the determination of the Contracting Officer/Ordering Officer in accordance with FAR

16.505 Ordering as related to fair opportunity and exceptions to fair opportunity.

A00004

Section B- From the page 2 of 150 to 10 of 150. Please confirm offeror is not required to fill up prices on these pages.

Pricing is not required at the basic contract level thus allowing offerors to better adjust pricing to reflect current market conditions at the task order level.

A00002

For pages 2 through 10. For the proposal submission, are amounts to be entered into the spaces provided for the CLIN's and SubCLIN's? If so, the instructions are clear for what pricing is to be entered in the spaces provided for the Base Period and Option Period CLIN's but, it's NOT clear what pricing is to be entered into the SubCLIN spaces. Can you provide an explanation and examples?

Pricing is not required at the basic contract level thus allowing offerors to better adjust pricing to reflect current market conditions at the task order level.

A00002

On page 10, item 1 States "All prices as a result of this contract shall be Firm-Fixed-Prices and shall be expressed in U.S. Dollars."

Item 3 States; "Firm-Fixed-Prices for all items shall be set at the Task Order level."

At the Industry Day conference, it was specified the Firm-Fixed-Prices would be set at the RTOP level. Please clarify if any pricing at all will be set at the contract level.

Pricing is not required at the basic contract level thus allowing offerors to better adjust pricing to reflect current market conditions at the task order level. The Request for a Task Order Proposal (RTOP) is the solicitation for the subsequent task order.

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Paragraph 2.3 TUG SERVICES (ELIN XX05 - XX06): Tug services Unit Of Issue is JOB;

Please clarify does this mean "JOB per Tug" or, "JOB per Tug Service (one or more tugs used)" Example: If 2 tugs are needed for both arrival and departure of a ship. Will this be listed in the RTOP as 4 JOBS (2 tugs for arrival & 2 tugs for departure) or just 2 JOBS (1 tug service for arrival & 1 tug service for departure)

The PWS defines tug services in terms of arrival tug services and departure tug services. The services are inclusive of all equipment necessary. Therefore, regardless of the number of tugs used, arrival tug services would be 1 Job and departure tug services would be 1 Job. For the example provided, if 2 tugs are needed for both arrival and departure of a ship, this would be listed as 2 JOBS (1 tug service for arrival and 1 tug service for departure).

A00004

If a contractor bids for multiple regions but, is deemed ineligible for one or more of the regions by the Contracting Officer, does this render the contractor ineligible for all regions bid on? Example: Contractor bids for 3 regions but, Contracting Officer deems contractor not eligible for one of the regions bid on. Can contractor still be selected, if all criteria is met, for the other two regions in contractor's proposal?

Contractors will be determined eligible on a region by region basis. Exclusion from one region may not indicate exclusion from all regions.

A00002

Under Section 11 (Cyber Security Requirements for Hisbanding Service Providers) of RFP N6817120R0001 the RFP states, “The HSP that receives a MAC award shall confirm with the KO that its computer systems conform to these requirements immediately after contract award. This confirmation shall be in writing via email to KO”. Will the Navy conduct any audits or verifications of HSP compliance? If so, we request that vendors found to be non compliant be removed from the contract until they are compliant!

Thank you for your suggestion. We will take your suggestion under advisement for both the verification of HSP compliance as well as the removal of an HSP that is not compliant.

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We noticed that from the draft of the solicitation to the final version some Countries have been correctly removed being landlocked, however we believe that also the following Countries (as all of them are landlocked too) should be removed from their respective Region: - Paraguay and Bolivia from Region 9; - Ethiopia and eSwatini from Region 15; - Buthan from region 26.

Thank you for the information. We have updated the country listings in the regions table.

A00002

Pag. 16 out of 150, Section C - Paragraph 1.6.

At this paragraph it is quoted Attachment J-1 titled "Port Visits – Historical Data”. Actually, the Attachment J-1 is the QASP, while the Historical Data have not been provided with the Solicitation Docs.

Please, be so kind to correct the mistake on Paragraph 1.6 of Section C and, if available, to provide the Historical Data.

Thank you for the information. The attachments have been corrected. A00002

First-tier Subcontractor information. Apart from the contact information per region, is it enough to present the Articles of incorporation of a local agent? Which other document would be needed to justify their local presence and performance at a specific region/ports?

The subcontractor requirement will be removed from section L of the basic contract. A00002

Presenting an offer per region. Can we bid for a region quoting for just some ports and not all of them part of the region? For example: For Region 28: Southeastern Asia 1 - Can we go for French Polynesia and New Caledonia (France).

The basic contract will be awarded based on region, not particular ports or countries within the region. It is the HSP's decision, after contract award as to whether to bid on particular port visits within the region.

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As far as we know, we don't need to present any price at this time. So for the due date of this solicitation, we need to present what is asked on L-2 SUBMISSION INFORMATION (pages 146-147), which is mainly informative information and not financial information related to prices/quotes. Could you please confirm this? Please let us know whether we have to present any total prices or not at this stage.

No pricing is required to be submitted. Please follow the submission guidelines outlined in Section L as to what should be submitted.

Regarding RTOPs. Once we are selected in a Region and we sign a contract for that region, the Logistics Office/Vessel/POC will send us an RFQ and we'll have to quote in the time selected. Could you please describe more how the quoting stage (RTOP) is going to be?

The specific ordering instructions are provided in H-2. The RTOP process includes notifying all contractors who have been awarded a region, of an upcoming port visit.

The specific information necessary for the port visit will be included as part of that RTOP. The Contracting Officer/Ordering Officer will provide instructions on how to submit offers and how offers will be evaluated. Once an award decision is made, the ordering officer will notify the winning HSP for the port visit and the HSP will be required to take action for the port visit.

A00004

Warranty doubt. Schedule notes 13: This means that if we do any work in the first year, we are not paid the 3000 USD minimum warranty. If we don't get any work, we can invoice for $3,000 of that guarantee, so I understand that being on the list of subcontractors guarantees companies that they earn at least $3,000?

The Prime Contractor who wins an HSP Contract is guaranteed $3000. If the company does not win any port visits within the first year, then the HSP may invoice for $3000 at the end of the first year. If, however, the HSP has received port visits whose total invoiced amount meets or exceeds this minimum guarantee within the first year, then the HSP is not entitled to any additional money except that which it receives through port visits.

A00002

Inspection doubt. HSP'S RESPONSBILITIES FOR PRE-ARRIVAL ARRANGEMENTS:

1.1.5.1 If requested by the Government, the HSP shall ensure all services (land based and afloat) are available for inspection on the scheduled date and time requested by the Government. The Government shall provide 48 hours' notice prior to requested inspection to the HSP. So, apart from coordinating all the services, 48 hours before the vessel enters the Port, you can ask to make the services/etc available for inspection? What happens in case the services are buses? Do we take a bus to the port/inspection site so that you can see how they look like, is it worth sending you a photo, do we tell you who the supplier is so that you can see the bus?

The request for inspection is a case by case basis at the time of the RTOP. If the Government notifies the winning HSP that services are required to be available for inspection, then yes the HSP is responsible to ensure the services are available. For questions on availability of specific services, the HSP needs to work with the Contracting Officer/Ordering Officer.

A00002

65 Duration of the contract, What is the length of this contract? What could be the extension?

Per Section F-1 Ordering Period, the Contract is a 10 year contract composed of a base period of 5 years and an option period of 5 years. The HSP who wins a contract will be part of the ordering process over the first 5 year period. If the Government decides to exercise the option, the HSP will have an additional 5 years in which they can compete for port visits under this contract.

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HSP shall provide Tug Services on standby for each day the ship is in port. Standby Tug Services shall be able to support ship movements within 2-hours notification. What about ports where tug availability is charged? This means that if they come in on the 1st and leave on the 3rd, on the 2nd the tug service must also be available just in case?

That is correct. Standby tug services are to be available all days while the ship is in port. The government does not dictate how to price this service, but is expected to be available each day.

Could we have an outline of all the necessary documentation on the scale? As we see there are many things (apart from the Questionnaire to be delivered) e.g.: standard receipt documents for all supplies, materials and services provided to the ship. - SECTION 2.1.6.3

RECEIPT DOCUMENTATION

The listed documents are what is required. Please clarify what additional information is required.

A00002

Original vouchers. Do we need to send you the original vouchers of the port call (of the different services provided)? Or/And the invoices issued by our company?

Original vouchers are from the HSP. There may be occasion where original vouchers from subcontractors or vendors are required.

A00004

PILOT SERVICES (ELIN XX03) – Part 2.2.3 - One day prior to the ship’s departure, HSP shall relay changes and any additional information applicable to the ship and its departure.

Does this mean the client can send us necessary information/documentation until the last day before arrival?

This is reference to when the ship is departing the port. The HSP is responsible for coordinating with the port and the pilots and must notify the ship of any changes or relevant information from the port regarding the ship's departure.

A00002

HSP shall provide a power source capable of supplying power to lighting, 20 110-220VAC US outlets and miscellaneous portable electrical equipment (radios, stereos, hand tools, etc.).

The power source shall emit sound levels of less than 84 decibels. For such specific cases, are other alternatives admitted?

Any alternatives may be addressed to the Contracting Officer/Ordering Officer during the RTOP for a particular port visit.

A00004

Does the Navy object to the HSP advising the port prior to a port visit that although the HSP is contractually permitted to identify itself as the US Navy’s Agent , it is not in fact authorized to bind the Navy to any of the terms and conditions imposed by the port, including but not limited to the payment for any damage suffered by the port or by any other vessel visiting the port caused by US Navy or its ships. Similarly, the HSP is not able to accept any fines the port may levy on the Navy ship unless in an instance the fine is result of actions of the HSP?

The HSP can advise ports on the contractual relationship of the U.S. Navy and HSP.

The HSP can provide point of contact (POC) information for the COR for any fines or other administrative items from the port that are not related to the HSP.

A00004

If in response to the advice provided to the port in #1 above, the port refuses to permit entry to the US vessel, how shall the HSP proceed, given the tight time frames which frequently exist, particularly in times of international tension, between notice to the port of the visit and arrival of the ship?

Any potential issues with port access due to the contractual relationship should be raised during the RTOP process by promptly engaging the Contracting Officer/Ordering Officer per Section C, Paragraph 1.3.

A00004

If the port refuses entry to a US vessel because of the advice given in # 1 above, will that be grounds for an adverse performance finding on the HSP’s CPAR or cause for termination for default?

If the port refuses entry due to actions of the HSP, adverse performance can be entered into the Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting System ( CPARS) and actions taken by the Contracting Officer for termination of the task order. If the port refuses entry unrelated to any actions of the HSP, adverse performance would not be held against the contractor but may still be grounds for a termination of the task order. These issues should be brought to the Ordering Officer's attention before the award of the task order in response to an RTOP.

A00004

What is the Navy's position in the event that the Navy refuses to permit the HSP to disclose to the port either (a) that its description as the Navy's "agent" is solely cosmetic and it is actually bereft of any form of binding authority, or, (b) that the HSP is acting as "agent" without contracting authority on behalf of its principal (as internationally established concept of shipping agent infers) and that failure to disclose this is illegal under the law of the port?

Any potential issues with the port should be raised prior to award of the task order in response to the RTOP. As stated in response to question Number 71, above, the HSP can advise ports on the contractual relationship of the U.S. Navy and HSP. As set forth in Section C, Paragraph 1.3, "[a]lthough the HSP may not legally bind the United States, the HSP may make such representations in furtherance of its integration of services function under the contract. Any disputes that arise in connection with such services are to be promptly brought to the attention of the Contracting Officer and resolved directly between port officials and U.S. Government officials."

Although Paragraph H‐4 (p. 101 ) addresses the liability of the HSP in a situation where a Navy vessel is damaged because of the action/inaction of the port, port personnel or the HSP, nowhere in the solicitation is there any acknowledgment that the Navy would assume responsibility for damage to the port or its personnel when caused by a US Navy vessel or its crew. Please confirm that in the instance where a Navy vessel or a member of its crew causes damage or injury to the HSP, the port or port personnel or port contractors, the US Navy will accept responsibility for such damage or injury.

The HSP may submit a request for an equitable adjustment (REA) or a Claim pursuant to FAR 52-233-1 Disputes, incorporated by reference in the Contract (see page 108 of the solicitation), in order to address any issue, including damage/injury as described in this question, which may arise during task order performance. Any incidents, which occur during the subject port visit will be reviewed to determine responsibility.

A00004

Please confirm that offerors are not required to submit pricing with their solicitation offers because all pricing will be accomplished at the task order level.

Offerors are not required to submit pricing with their proposals as all pricing will be accomplished at the task order level.

A00002

There is a lack of clarity in the solicitation because although it most frequently states that RTOP prices are to be submitted either in response to Fixed‐Price ELINS or as part of the Husbanding Fee. (See, e.g., Para. 2.1.4.1 ‐ Other Direct and Indirect Costs and Para. H‐2.3), Para. H‐2.5 of the solicitation states that prices are to be submitted in response to Fixed‐Price ELINS or non‐Fixed‐Price “Other Items ELINS” without mention of the Husbanding Fee, and the spread sheet exhibits identify line items for “Other” costs. Are offerors to price support work which qualifies as “Other Items” as part of the lump sum Husbanding Fee or are they to individually price them?

The offeror shall submit pricing at the RTOP level in accordance with the instructions provided by the ordering officer. if the ordering officer specifies that certain services should be included as the "other items ELINs" , then contractors should follow those instructions. The government does not dictate how costs should be covered by the HSP or reported beyond what is stated for the ELINs, but does provide specific pricing notes which need to be followed in establishing pricing for the various services. The husbanding fee is an established ELIN and should be priced as required and cover the costs as outlined in the pricing notes.

A00002

We have noted there are some landlocked countries that are included on the lists of countries for various regions. Three examples: South America: Bolivia and Paraguay Middle East: Afghanistan Indian Ocean: Bhutan. We assume this is an oversight since the contract is for Husbanding US Government vessels and these are landlocked nations.

Accordingly, must we submit information on first tier subcontractors and certified statements for subcontractors for these landlocked countries and if so, please advise pertinent paragraphs in the PWS that define the type work to be conducted.

The Government is reviewing and will revise as necessary. A00002

Region 22 covers China, Russia and Taiwan. Please advise if Region 22 includes Hong Kong as part of China.

Region 22 includes Hong Kong. A00002

Paragraph 1.6 on page 16 of solicitation refers to Attachment J‐1 titled, “Port Visits – Historical Data”. The Attachment J‐1 received as part of the Navy’s Zip file is entitled “Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan. Could you please distribute the port visit historical data file as well?

Thank you for pointing out the notation error. The reference has been corrected. A00002

In paragraphs 2.24.1 (Brow) and 2.26.1 (Brow Stand) the term “Reposition” is used to describe one of the services that must be included as part of the all inclusive price. After the HSP has set the brow or stand on ship’s arrival, there should be no obligation to reposition the brow or stand after ship’s arrival without the HSP being able to charge for the equipment and labor necessary to affect the repositioning. Please clarify how the HSP would be required to “reposition brow or stand at no additional cost.

Any repositioning required due to the HSP not properly placing the brow will be covered at no charge. Any additional repositioning requirements need to be communicated with the COR and ordering officer to determine responsibility. The HSP is responsible for meeting the requirements of the RTOP. The HSP determines how to ensure the service is available pursuant to the performance work statement (PWS) and should include any foreseeable costs in its price. Anything perceived outside the original RTOP needs to be raised with the Contracting Officer at the RTOP level. Any pricing questions after task order performance will be reviewed in accordance with schedule notes on pricing and the PWS

A00004

Paragraph 2.27.1 indicates HSP shall provide crane services with operators, riggers and safety observers. Paragraph 2.27.5 lists the elements that make up the all inclusive cost for crane services. This list in 2.27.5 does not include riggers. Accordingly, does the Navy expect riggers to be provided with each crane order or is it the case that riggers will be ordered separately.

RTOP will provide specific information about the need for riggers. A00002

If riggers are part of the all inclusive price, how is HSP to determine how many riggers are required?

RTOP will provide specific information about the need for riggers. A00002

Paragraph 7.2 Vehicle Rental without driver. Paragraph 7.2.12 (still under Vehicle Rental Without Driver) indicates the unit price shall be inclusive of licensed operators. There should be no licensed operator necessary with a self drive vehicle. Please remove the reference to licensed operator.

Corrected. A00002

The following paragraph appears under every ELIN in the solicitation: “Unit price shall be inclusive of all pricing variables, including, but not limited to, all necessary equipment, licensed operators, holiday and overtime costs, customs clearances, mobilization and demobilization (including all associated equipment and labor required to satisfy ship and port requirement), removal, disposal, transportation, setup, pre-positioning, staging, charter, vetting of operations, detention or demurrage, fuel and operating expenses, dismantling and labor, repositioning, all applicable taxes and surcharges. Unit price shall be inclusive of performance at night, overtime, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, Holidays, performance under heavy rain and other inclement weather, and service to tankers and ships carrying explosives, as well as any cost associated with all necessary insurance (including Admiralty insurance) as required by local laws, licenses and permits or incurred to comply with applicable laws, codes, and regulations, in connection with the performance of the work”. For services that are priced by the job (JB) such as PILOTS, TUGS and LINE HANDLER SERVICES, in the event there are additional costs incurred due to unforeseen delays caused by a vessel, what recourse does an HSP have for recovering the additional cost(s) from the US government?

The HSP is responsible for meeting the requirements of the RTOP. The HSP determines how to ensure the service is available pursuant to the performance work statement (PWS) and should include any foreseeable costs in its price. Anything perceived outside the original RTOP needs to be raised with the Contracting Officer at the RTOP level. Any pricing questions after task order performance will be reviewed in accordance with schedule notes on pricing and the PWS.

A00004

Please confirm that for services involving the placement & removal of equipment such as brows, oil booms and fenders to name a few, prices offered are to be inclusive of one (1) mob and one (1) demob and that any additional services such as repositioning of equipment for ship’s convenience are to be priced separately at the Task Order (TO) level.

The HSP is responsible for meeting the requirements of the RTOP. The HSP determines how to ensure the service is available pursuant to the performance work statement (PWS) and should include any foreseeable costs in its price. Anything perceived outside the original RTOP needs to be raised with the Contracting Officer at the RTOP level. Any pricing questions after task order performance will be reviewed in accordance with schedule notes on pricing and the PWS.

For services such as CRANE, FORKLIFT, MANLIFT and VEHICLES WITH DRIVER/OPERATOR that are priced by the day (DY) will the unit of issue DY be defined at the RTOP level or are HSPs to price the service(s) to account for the availability pier side of drivers/operators 24/7?

Per Schedule Note no. 8, a calendar day begins at 0000 and ends at 2359. Equipment and/or labor are required to be available and immediately capable of operation during the entire timeframe. Therefore, services will be billed on a daily basis. The ship may provide estimated timeframes in which the ship expects to use a particular service, but these estimates are only to assist with planning. Regardless if a timeframe is provided, the services shall be the same price for the entire day.

A00004

For services that were not priced at the RTOP level but are required at the TO level please advise methodology KOs will utilize for determining that prices offered by an HSP are fair & reasonable considering costs, return on investment and rate of exchange to USD.

The Contracting Officer/Ordering Officer will make a fair and reasonable determination in accordance with FAR 16.505 Ordering and subsequent references within that FAR provision.

A00002

Paragraph 2.1.5.9.2 states that “In the event of any releases of oil, hazardous substances, Bilge water, CHT, chemicals, or gases due to HSP activity; immediately (within 15 minutes) notify the COR. HSP is responsible for verbal and written notifications as required by Navy Instructions. Spill response shall be in accordance with local regulations and at no cost to the Government”.