Cover_Letter_IFB2015064.doc

CAUTION TO PROSPECTIVE BIDDERS

This is a two-step sealed bidding process. Step one consists of request for submission of bid samples, descriptive literature and past performance information. Bid samples must meet all salient characteristics set forth in Sections C.1 and C.2. of the solicitation. Step two involves the submission of sealed priced bids by those who submitted acceptable technical proposals in step one. All Bid Samples, Descriptive Literature and Past Performance information must be received by 1:00PM EST, August 4, 2015. All Bids must be received at 1:00PM EST on August 20, 2015.

Bidders, who attach their standard company quotation, bid form or bid letters, or incorporate such by reference with their bids run the risk of having their bid be determined non-responsive by the Government. Almost invariably such standard company quotation forms contain terms or conditions which are inconsistent with the general or special provisions of the sealed bid solicitation. Or such company quotation forms may contain disclaimers such as “Prices are subject to change without notice” which renders the bid non-responsive due to the firm bid rule.

All information and prices required by the terms of this solicitation must be furnished. Important items for you to check are included in, but not limited to, those listed below. The check list below is furnished only to assist you in submitting a proper bid. Mistakes can be costly, check as you read.

The original and two (2) copies of the solicitation must be returned to the address shown in Block 9 of the Standard Form (SF) 1449.

Bids will be opened publicly and read aloud. It is recommended that all bid price(s) be inserted on the solicitation itself at Section B, Supplies and Prices, and a separate page is included for your total price for all three years.

F.O.B. DESTINATION: If the solicitation states “F.O.B. Destination Within Consignee’s Premises”, this term means free of expense to the Government, delivered and laid down within the doors of the consignee’s premises, including delivery to specific rooms within a building. Ensure your bid price includes all transportation charges.

MAIL BID TO ARRIVE ON TIME: Your bid must arrive at NIH, 6011 Executive Boulevard, Room 541D, Bethesda, Maryland 20892-7663, prior to 1:00 p.m. local time on the date of opening as stated in Block 8 of the SF 1449. Delivery of bids will only be accepted Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. through 5:00 p.m. (local time).

If delivery of your bid will be made by other than the U.S. Postal Service, i.e., Federal Express, UPS, Express Mail or a courier service, the state and zip code should read:

Rockville, MD 20852

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