PS_QA_2.docx

Second Set of Questions and Answers **Please Note: In addition to the Second Set of Questions & Answers provided here, a Powerpoint presentation relating to this solicitation has been posted to the FedBizOpps website under the “Other” category**

(1) Question: Freight handling - is this a physical charge to handle in our depot or does it require a need to incorporate the transportation cost to our depot?

Answer. Freight handling is defined as any line items incorporated in the pricing structure Amendment A004, and as set forth in the freight and handling Attachment 1, paragraph 6 of the solicitation. Prospective offerors firm fixed prices must be in compliance with the aforementioned line items incorporated in Amendment A004 and solicitation Attachment 1, Per Section 1, paragraph 3 “Pricing” of the solicitation, “Freight handling shall contain all import and export costs to include but not limited to loading and unloading of the freight at the port or airport, agency fees, all tolls, etc. There shall not be separate reimbursement for any import or export related costs incurred in performance of this contract if the services are not included in the firm fixed line items above.”

(2) Question: With import shipments arriving at a port in Australia, will the government or general bill of lading (air or sea) include the cost of DTHC (Destination Terminal Handling Charges)?

Answer. The GBL does not include DTHC. Per attachment 1, paragraph 16 of the solicitation “NOTIFICATION OF COMPLETION OF SERVICES:” The Contractor shall tender the GBL to the carrier specified to transport the shipment to the port of embarkation. The Contractor shall contact the carrier in sufficient time to load the shipment on the carrier's vehicle in time to have the shipment delivered to the port of embarkation by the delivery date designated in the shipping data furnished by the Government. In addition, the Contractor shall ensure that all customs procedures have been accomplished, and shall obtain required documentation for all shipments. The Contractor shall notify the COR in writing if and why any shipment cannot be delivered to the port of embarkation by the date specified. Failure to provide this notice before the latest delivery to the pier may subject the Contractor to any liquidated damages to be paid by the Contractor to the carrier.

Additionally, as noted in Question 1 above, Freight handling as listed in the pricing structure Amendment 004 is all an inclusive cost as per the solicitation section 1, paragraph 3 “Pricing” of the solicitation (see FAR 52.228-4 and 52.228-5). Firm fixed prices must be in compliance with the aforementioned line items incorporated in Amendment A004.

(3) Question: We would like to know the specifics of what is required for 2 a check of personal residence, as written in the paragraph from the Packing and Shipping Solicitation:

"The Contractor shall subject its personnel to the Government's approval. All employees must pass a suitable investigation conducted by the Contractor, including recommendation(s) from their respective supervisor(s). Also required: (1) a police check covering criminal and/or subversive activities; (2) a check of personal residence, and (3) a credit investigation. The Contractor shall provide all such investigations in summary form to the COR for review and approval or disapproval. THE CONTRACTOR SHALL NOT USE ANY EMPLOYEES UNDER THIS CONTRACT WITHOUT GOVERNMENT APPROVAL."

a) We spoke with our regular provider of background checks and they were unfamiliar with what would be required for this personal residence check.

ANSWER: According to our local security office, the certified copy of a document from an organization that requires proof of identity to open an account is needed– usually this is a utility bill, a bank statement, a tax return, etc.

Please confirm also:

b) That 1, 2, and 3 above is required to be performed for each and every XX company resource that will be directly involved in the performing the scope of work

ANSWER: Per Section 1, Paragraph 8 of the solicitation “All employees must pass a suitable investigation conducted by the Contractor…. Also required: (1) a police check covering criminal and/or subversive activities; (2) a check of personal residence, and (3) a credit investigation. ”

c) That a summary of the investigations must be submitted with our response, for each and every XX company resource that will be directly involved in the performing the scope of work

ANSWER: This information will only be required following the award of the contract. As noted in section 1, paragraph 8 of the solicitation, “The contractor shall not use any employees under this contract without government approval.”

d) Would you please also clarify if this is required for those that will be providing the vehicle transportation services and for those handling goods into and out of storage and performing fumigation work?

ANSWER: Please refer to answer b) above - Per Section 1, Paragraph 8 of the solicitation “All employees must pass a suitable investigation conducted by the Contractor…. Also required: (1) a police check covering criminal and/or subversive activities; (2) a check of personal residence, and (3) a credit investigation.”