SOL-040ADV-22-R-0011.pdf

U.S. GOVERNMENT

PUBLISHING OFFICE

KEEPING AMERICA INFORMED

Issuance Date:

Deadline for Receipt of Questions:

Closing Date and Time:

Estimated Contract Effective Date:

July 13, 2022 July 18, 2022, 12:00 am local time July 27, 2022, 12:00 pm local time October 01, 2022

Subject: Solicitation No. 040ADV-22-R-0011, Request for Proposal (RFP) for paper, offset book paper and envelopes

To All Prospective Offerors, The Government Printing Office (GPO) is soliciting proposals from qualified suppliers interested in providing supplies and material described in Section C of the attached Request for Proposal.

This procurement is conducted under a full and open competition, for which the procedures described in the Materials Management Acquisition Regulation (MMAR) Part 15 “Lowest price technically acceptable” will apply.

GPO anticipates awarding multiple indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contracts.

Individual orders may be placed on a firm fixed unit price basis, the cumulative value of which will not exceed the maximum defined in the contract (Section B.3). The contract period will be for one base year period with four one-year options. The Government reserves the right to reopen competition to new potential contractors annually. Orders placed against the IDIQ contract will be in accordance with the MMAR. The terms and conditions of the IDIQ contract will be incorporated in any resulting order. Only the Government Publishing Office Contracting Officers may place orders against this contract.

Questions and requests for clarification in response to this solicitation must be submitted in writing only addressed to Ms. Sokunn Mealea Prak, Senior Acquisition Service at sprak@gpo.gov and curtesy copy the Contracting Officer, Mr. Rashid M Behi at abehi@gpo.gov with subject line “Questions on 040ADV-22-R-0011 RFP submitted by [Name of Company]” by the deadline indicated above. If GPO receives substantive questions that affect the solicitation or necessitates changes to the closing date, time, or other aspects of the RFP, GPO will amend this solicitation.

The amendments will be posted on the Government Business Opportunities website at https://www.SAM.gov . Offerors are strongly encouraged to check the SAM.GOV website periodically, as acknowledgement of any such amendments is required to accompany the offeror's proposal.

mailto:sprak@gpo.gov mailto:abehi@gpo.gov https://www.sam.gov/

Proposals received after the closing date and time will be processed as late and handled in accordance with MMAR 15.208(b). Offerors are responsible for ensuring that their proposals are received at GPO by the specified closing date and time.

Issuance of this solicitation neither obligates GPO to award a contract nor does it commit to pay for any costs incurred by the offeror in the preparation and submission of a proposal. Award of a contract will be subject to funds availability following the proper completion of required GPO internal processes and other internal GPO approvals.

Sincerely, /s/

Rashid M Behi Supervisory Contracting Officer U.S. Government Publishing Office

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL ITEMS

OFFEROR TO COMPLETE BLOCKS 12, 17, 23, 24, & 30

1. REQUISITION NUMBER PAGE 1 OF 37

2. CONTRACT NO. 3. AWARD/EFFECTIVE

DATE

4. ORDER NUMBER 5. SOLICITATION NUMBER

040ADV-22-R-0011

6. SOLICITATION ISSUE

DATE

07/13/2022

7. FOR SOLICITATION

INFORMATION CALL:

a. NAME

BEHI, RASHID M

b. TELEPHONE NUMBER (No collect calls)

8. OFFER DUE DATE/

LOCAL TIME

07/27/2022 12:00

9. ISSUED BY CODE GPO 10. THIS ACQUISITION IS UNRESTRICTED OR SET ASIDE: 0 % FOR:

GPO

732 North Capitol St NW

SMALL BUSINESS WOMEN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESS

(WOSB) ELIGIBLE UNDER THE WOMEN-OWNED

Washington, DC, 20401, US HUBZONE SMALL

BUSINESS

SERVICE-DISABLED

VETERAN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS

SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM

EDWOSB

8 (A)

NAICS:

SIZE STANDARD:

11. DELIVERY FOR FOB DESTINA-

TION UNLESS BLOCK IS

MARKED

SEE SCHEDULE

12. DISCOUNT TERMS

13a. THIS CONTRACT IS A

RATED ORDER UNDER

DPAS (15 CFR 700)

13b. RATING

14. METHOD OF SOLICITATION

RFQ IFB RFP

15. DELIVER TO

See Schedule

CODE 16. ADMINISTERED BY CODE

Same As Issuing Office

GPO

17a. CONTRACTOR/

OFFEROR

CODE FACILITY

CODE

18a. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY CODE

TELEPHONE NO.

17b. CHECK IF REMITTANCE IS DIFFERENT AND PUT SUCH ADDRESS IN 18b. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS SHOWN IN BLOCK 18a UNLESS BLOCK

OFFER BELOW IS CHECKED SEE ADDENDUM

19.

ITEM NO.

20.

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

21.

QUANTITY

22.

UNIT

23.

UNIT PRICE

24.

AMOUNT

See Schedule

(Use Reverse and/or Attach Additional Sheets as Necessary)

25. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA 26. TOTAL AWARD AMOUNT (For Govt. Use Only)

27a. SOLICITATION INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-1, 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-3 AND 52.212-5 ARE ATTACHED. ADDENDA

27b. CONTRACT/PURCHASE ORDER INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-5 IS ATTACHED. ADDENDA

ARE

ARE

ARE NOT ATTACHED

ARE NOT ATTACHED

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION

PREVIOUS EDITION IS NOT USABLE

STANDARD FORM 1449 (REV. 2/2012)

Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.212

28. CONTRACTOR IS REQUIRED TO SIGN THIS DOCUMENT AND RETURN

COPIES TO ISSUING OFFICE. CONTRACTOR AGREES TO FURNISH AND

DELIVER ALL ITEMS SET FORTH OR OTHERWISE IDENTIFIED ABOVE AND ON ANY

ADDITIONAL SHEETS SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS SPECIFIED

29. AWARD OF CONTRACT: REF. OFFER

DATED . . YOUR OFFER ON SOLICITATION

(BLOCK 5), INCLUDING ANY ADDITIONS OR CHANGES WHICH ARE

SET FORTH HEREIN, IS ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS:

30a. SIGNATURE OF OFFEROR/CONTRACTOR 31a. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (SIGNATURE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER)

30b. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (Type or print) 30c. DATE SIGNED 31b. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (Type or print) 31c. DATE SIGNED

19.

ITEM NO.

20.

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

21.

QUANTITY

22.

UNIT

23.

UNIT PRICE

24.

AMOUNT

See Schedule

32a. QUANTITY IN COLUMN 21 HAS BEEN

RECEIVED INSPECTED ACCEPTED, AND CONFORMS TO THE CONTRACT, EXCEPT AS NOTED:

32b. SIGNATURE OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT

REPRESENTATIVE

32c. DATE 32d. PRINTED NAME AND TITLE OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT

REPRESENTATIVE

32e. MAILING ADDRESS OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE 32f. TELPHONE NUMBER OF AUTHORZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

32g. E-MAIL OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

33. SHIP NUMBER 34. VOUCHER NUMBER 35. AMOUNT VERIFIED

CORRECT FOR

36. PAYMENT

COMPLETE PARTIAL FINAL

37. CHECK NUMBER

PARTIAL FINAL

38. S/R ACCOUNT NO. 39. S/R VOUCHER NUMBER 40. PAID BY

41a. I CERTIFY THIS ACCOUNT IS CORRECT AND PROPER FOR PAYMENT 42a. RECEIVED BY (Print)

41b. SIGNATURE AND TITLE OF CERTIFYING OFFICER 41c. DATE

42b. RECEIVED AT (Location)

42c. DATE REC'D (YY/MM/DD) 42d. TOTAL CONTAINERS

STANDARD FORM 1449 (REV. 2/2012) BACK

040ADV-22-R-0011

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL ITEMS

OFFEROR TO COMPLETE BLOCKS 12, 17, 23, 24, & 30

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

SECTION II: SOLICITATION FORM

A. SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES OR SERVICES

B. PRICE/COSTS SCHEDULE

C. DESCRIPTIONS / SPECIFICATIONS WORK STATEMENT

D. PACKAGING AND MARKING

E. INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE

F. DELIVERIES AND PERFORMANCE

G. CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

H. SPECIAL CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS

Section III: Contract Clauses

I. REGULATIONS GOVERNING PROCUREMENT

Section IV: List of Documents, Exhibits, and other Attachments

J. LIST OF ATTACHMENTS

Section V: Solicitation Provisions

K. REPRESENTATIONS, CERTIFICATIONS AND OTHER STATEMENTS OF OFFERS

L. INSTRUCTIONS, CONDITIONS AND NOTICES TO OFFERORS

M. EVALUATION FACTORS FOR AWARD

SECTION II: SOLICITATION FORM

A. SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES OR SERVICES

A.1 CONTRACT TYPE

This is a Firm Fixed Price Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract, a Lowest Price Technically Acceptable, for the procurement of copy paper, offset book paper and envelopes.

This solicitation will result in multiple indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contracts. Individual orders may be placed on a firm fixed unit price basis, the cumulative value of which will not exceed the maximum defined in the contract (B.3.) The contract period will be for one base year period with four one-year options.

The Government reserves the right to reopen competition to new potential contractors annually. Orders placed against the IDIQ contract will be in accordance with the MMAR. The terms and conditions of the IDIQ contract will be incorporated in any resulting order. Only the Government Publishing Office Contracting Officers may place orders against this contract.

A.2 PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE

The period of performance includes a one-year base period and four option periods as described below:

Base Period: October 01, 2022 thru September 30, 2023 Option Year One: October 1, 2023 thru September 30, 2024 Option Year Two: October 1, 2024 thru September 30, 2025 Option Year Three: October 1, 2025 thru September 30, 2026 Option Year Four: October 1, 2026 thru September 30, 2027

B. PRICE/COSTS SCHEDULE

B.1 Offerors shall update Attachment J-16 to complete the column entitled “PRICE SCHEDULE”.

This spreadsheet shall be provided with the quote submission in order for the submission to be considered complete.

B.2 Minimum/Maximum: The guaranteed minimum contract amount for each IDIQ contract is $500.00. The maximum cumulative amount that the Government may order and the Contractor shall be required to supply is to be determined (TBD) for each contract awarded under this solicitation.

C. DESCRIPTIONS / SPECIFICATIONS WORK STATEMENT

1. SCOPE

The United States Government Publishing Office (GPO) has a requirement to procure paper, envelopes, and corrugated containers. This contract will require the successful contractor(s) to deliver all the items in various quantities within a specified timeframe (specified at each award). GPO reserves the right to pick up paper from the contractor's designated facility.

This solicitation will cover a one-year base period beginning date of award through September 30, 2023 with four (4) additional one-year option periods.

The contractor shall provide to GPO, weekly reports emailed electronically to Paper Control at papercontrol@gpo.gov for each item on the contract as to the estimated contract quantity;

amount purchased by GPO; the amount available for rush deliveries; and the amount the contractor has on order with manufacturer/converter. The contractor shall also provide the GPO with access to their online store and capability for their online ordering.

Designated GPO officials reserve the right to visit and inspect the facility of the successful contractors.

2. Summary of Specification for GPO Paper and Envelopes

Paper and envelopes described in this solicitation shall be a commercial match to the Government standard sample for color unless otherwise specified below. The tolerance permitted for a color match varies with the grade of paper and is stated below. A commercial color match generally should not exceed DE (CIELAB) = 5.0 from the Government's established color standard and subject to approval by the Government prior to the first delivery. The "white" color standards have been coded B through F while colors are designated as "business colors" or “vellum colors”.

The standard samples program is also described in greater detail in part 3 of the Government Paper Specification Standards. The written specification requirements can be viewed on GPO's website at the following address: https://www.gpo.gov/docs/default-source/forms-and-standards-files-for-vendors/vol_12.pdf .

Definition of Color Standard Code:

(1) SAE means "Same As Except".

(2) Standard samples for "business colors":

Buff ………………….

Blue ………………… Salmon ……………..

(3) Standard samples for "vellum colors":

Vermillion ……………… Sand gray ……………… Venice blue …………….

Dawn gray ………………

(4) Standard samples for "white":

B ……………… D ………………

3. Minimum Content Standards for Paper and Envelopes

The specifications which are referenced in this solicitation incorporate the paper "Products Recovered Materials Advisory Notice" (Paper RMAN II) dated June 8, 1998 (63 FR 31217) under the authority of Sections 2002 (a) and 6002 of the Solid Waste Disposal Act of 1976, as amended, 42 U.S.C. 6912(a) and 6962, and Executive Order 13101, "Greening the Government Through Waste Prevention, Recycling, and Federal Acquisition," dated September 14, 1998. Subsequent "Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines (CPG)" includes the 2007 "Buy Recycled Series Paper Products" available from the Environmental Protection Agency website. The minimum content requirement for recovered materials including cotton/linen and/or postconsumer fiber/material, as applicable has been summarized for each item required in this IFB and included in Section J.

mailto:papercontrol@gpo.gov https://www.gpo.gov/docs/default-source/forms-and-standards-files-for-vendors/vol_12.pdf https://www.gpo.gov/docs/default-source/forms-and-standards-files-for-vendors/vol_12.pdf

Generally, the recovered and/or postconsumer fiber/material content follows the Government Paper Specification Standards. In some instances, GPO requires a minimum content that is different from what is stated in Government paper specifications book. The minimum content requirements (in Section J) are mandatory for all paper and envelope specified in the IFB.

4. Use of the Government Paper Specifications Standards

The contract resulting from this solicitation will be subject to the applicable provisions and supplemental specifications contained in the Government Paper Specification Standards, No. 13 dated May 2019, and as modified in this solicitation. Should the information not be available in No. 13, or on the web, consult the No.12 edition of the Government Paper Specification Standards. The specifications are available for viewing on the Internet address: https://www.gpo.gov/docs/default-source/forms-and-standards-files-for-vendors/vol_13.pdf

5. Standard Samples The original set of standard samples cited in the specification standards is maintained and preserved at the U.S. Government Publishing Office. They are available upon request from the CO or COR.

6. General Paper Requirements

Sizing: Paper shall be surface- and internal-sized suitable for satisfactory printing on both sides of the paper on high- speed offset presses and/or sheet-fed offset presses equipped with low voe dampening systems.

Pick Resistance: Sheet-fed offset: Average, each side, not less than 13-A Dennison wax number for sheet sizes exceeding 17 X 22 inches; 10-A Dennison Wax number for sheet sizes 17 X 22 inches or less.

Surface: Paper shall be free from lint, fuzz, or any particles which will pick, lift, fluff, or pile on the blanket under normal press conditions.

Size and Trim: Mixing of precision trimmed and guillotine trim paper for any item is not permitted.

Precision trimmed paper must be evenly jogged.

Sheets: Paper shall be furnished in the sizes(s) ordered and shall be flat, trimmed square on four sides with clean smooth edges, and evenly jogged. A tolerance of +/- 1/16 inch shall be allowed except for sheets 81/2 x 11 or less; then a tolerance of +/- 1/32 inch shall be allowed. Successive sheets within any package shall not differ from each other by more than 1/64 inch. Paper with the long dimension 32 inches or less shall be considered square if the variation does not exceed +/-1/32 inches over 32 inches +/- 1/16”.

Grain: Unless specified, the direction of the grain shall be optional.

Curl: Paper shall be flat and capable of coming into equilibrium with pressroom conditions of 24 +/- 2 °c and 45 +/- 8% relative humidity.

Watermark: Paper shall not bear any watermark or other similar impression, except as herein specified. Drawings of watermarks are illustrated in Section J. Stock used in making envelopes is exempt.

A Contractors will be permitted to sell mill sorting and rejected stock bearing the Government watermark. The Government watermark must not be applied to any paper other than ordered by a duly authorized officer of the U.S. Government.

https://www.gpo.gov/docs/default-source/forms-and-standards-files-for-vendors/vol_13.pdf https://www.gpo.gov/docs/default-source/forms-and-standards-files-for-vendors/vol_13.pdf

B. All watermarked paper shall be stacked on the skids so the watermarks are all facing the same direction. The watermark in the full-size sheet shall be oriented so when the full-size paper is cut down to 8-1/2 X 11 inches grain long; the paper grain shall run through the eagle's head to its feet.

C. Upon request, the contracting officer will supply the full-size watermark design required for each grade of paper.

Laser Printer Compatible: The following grades of paper shall be suitable for processing in laser printers before and after printing: JCP G45, G70, and 0-65.

Color: Paper shall match the Government's standard sample for color. A deviation of DE(CIELAB) =

1.5 from the color standard is allowed unless otherwise specified. A color difference of 1.0 DE unit between the wire and felt sides is permitted.

White and Colored Papers

A. For WHITE stock, a commercial match to the Government's established color standard is acceptable, unless otherwise specified. A commercial color match should not exceed DE (CIELAB)

5.0 from the Government's established color standard. The commercial match is subject to acceptance by the Government prior to the first delivery and shall not exhibit a color variation between deliveries that exceed the specification requirement for color variation. The color/shade of the envelopes for Lot 481 and 488 must match the color shade of the paper for Lots 128, 128a, 129, and 131.

1. Lot 202 shall match the Government's established standard.

B. For COLORED paper

1. Lot 203 stock shall match the Government's established standard for "vellum colors."

Standard Samples illustrating these colors are available from the CO or the COR. The technical definitions of these standards are in Part 3 of the Government Paper Specification Standards.

7. General Envelope Requirements

All envelopes shall be of the dimensions given, shall be made in the most thorough and workmanlike manner, and shall be cut sufficiently high to prevent the adhesive from coming in contact with the contents of the envelope. The quality and width of adhesive applied on the flaps and seams shall be sufficient to ensure permanent adhesion of the seams and flap when sealing. Split gumming on flaps is permissible (unless otherwise specified), not to exceed the width of the seam it covers and to be positioned over the seams. Envelopes must be capable of being run on all types of automatic Inserting and sealing equipment. Care shall be exercised to prevent an excessive amount of adhesive being used on the seams, causing the inside seams to adhere to the inside of the envelope. The flaps must not stick to the body of the envelopes, but shall be capable of being quickly and securely sealed by application of the specified pressure after moistening.

Style: The style shall be "high-cut diagonal seam" or Style A illustrated in Section J except when otherwise specified.

Window: Envelopes requiring a window shall be round cornered 1-1/4 X 4-3/4 inches in size located 3/4 inch from the left side of the envelope and 1/2 inch from the bottom. Window material shall be transparent and clear so that the printed matter inside is distinctly legible through the window.

Adhesive Quality: All adhesives used shall be free from ingredients which would tend to discolor the paper. They shall be clean and free from offensive odor, and of such consistency when applied to the seams and sealing flaps of the envelopes as to prevent curling of the envelopes after drying, or adhering of the sealing flaps prematurely in storage, use in common office laser printers, etc. The adhesive shall be able to resist the heat and pressure of common office laser printers so that the flap adhesive does not become soft and tacky causing the flap to stick to the body of the envelope, since the envelopes ordered will be addressed by a variety of office machines, including laser printers.

Envelopes will be rejected if they seal when subjected to the heat and pressure conditions common to office laser printers. Envelopes drawn from cartons opened for inspection shall not show curl or warping due to moisture in the adhesive and on the seams or sealing flaps.

Laser Printer Capable: Envelopes shall be suitable for processing in laser printers before and after offset printing.

8. General carton Requirements

All corrugated cartons shall be of the dimensions given, shall be made in the most thorough and workmanlike manner. All dimensions given are inside measurements and are in the following order, length, width, and depth. A tolerance of +Yz inch and -1/8 inch shall be allowed from the nominal size.

Style: Cartons shall be regular slotted container (RSC).

Corrugation: Carton shall be constructed with a B- or C-flute linerboard. B-flute is 47 to 53 flutes per linear foot and C-flute, 39 to 45 flutes per linear foot.

Flaps: The sealing flaps, both top and bottom, shall have the outer surfaces treated with a colloidal silica compound to prevent carton slippage when stacked on pallets.

Body Joints: At the joint, one edge of the corrugated board shall overlap the adjacent edge not less than 1-1/4 inches and shall be secured either by staples, stitching wire, glue, or adhesive. When metal fasteners are used, they shall be spaced not more than 2 inches apart and the distance between the outer stitches and the end of the joint shall not exceed one inch. An additional tie stitch shall be used about ½ inch from the outer stitches at each end of the body joint. Glue or adhesive when used, shall form a bond over the entire area of contact of the joint.

Bursting Strength: Cartons shall have either a minimum PSI or Edge Crust Test (ECT) rating. A bursting strength of 275 lb/in2 is equivalent to ECT, 44 lb/inch.

Printing: The inside dimensions of containers shall be printed on one outside lengthwise flap above the normal flap fold. Additionally, GPO property number shall be printed in the same location.

D. PACKAGING AND MARKING

PACKING, WRAPPING, AND LABELING REQUIREMENTS

Skids: Paper shall be delivered on standard size commercial-quality skids, which permit tiering without damage to the stock. Runners are to be one piece and run the full length of the skid. Loaded skids shall not exceed 60 inches in height.

Cut Sheets: Cut sheets include 8-1/2 X 11 inch and 17-1/2 X 22-1/2 inch sized paper.

Cut sheets, size 8-1/2 X 11 inch and 17-1/2 X 22-1/2 inch shall be trimmed square four sides, wrapped and securely sealed in 500-sheet packages, but so designated on skid labels and shipping memoranda as well as labeled, stamped, or stenciled on one end to show type of paper, quantity, color, size, paper weight, name of contractor, and GPO order number. Lot number 128a must be delivered on skids, in cartons. Cartons must be labeled to show type of paper, quantity, color, size, substance number, name of contractor, and GPO order number.

Envelope Packing: All envelopes shall be packed in a single row or layer, resting on their long dimension, with flaps up and closed and faced in the same direction. All envelope outer cartons shall have directional arrows stamped on side of carton indicating upright position and all cartons stacked on pallets according to direction of arrows.

Envelope Boxing: All envelopes shall be packed in strong interior chipboard or strawboard boxes.

Envelopes shall be securely packed so as to prevent curling or warping due to excessive space.

Boxes shall be labeled in such manner as to show the name of the contractor, property number, order number, date of manufacture, manufacturing run number, size of envelope, and quantity enclosed.

Envelope Quantity, to be packed as follows:

Lot # Property# Delivery Spec's

481 13528 4-1/8 x 9-1/2" 500 per box 2,500 per carton 24 Lb 488 13951 4-1/8 x 9-1/2" 500 per box 2,500 per carton 24 Lb

Envelope Palletzing: Envelope orders consisting of 2 or more tiers shall be banded or stretch wrapped and shipped on four-way entry pallets conforming to ASME MH1 a, part 9, dated 1993 Type 111, Four-way (Partial) Flush Pallet. Containers shall be securely stacked on a pallet without overhang and shall not exceed 60 inches in height and not damage the envelopes and containers. The American Society of Mechanical Engineers standard MH1 a can be obtained from the AS.ME, telephone 800-843-2763 (www.asmeny.org).

All cartons of envelopes shall be cross tied on the pallets and not stacked perpendicular (one on top of the other in a straight line). If false or empty containers are used, or if partially filled containers are included on the pallet, these containers shall be stacked on the top layer, and be conspicuously identified by either a bright color or by large lettering indicating these containers require special attention. Insert between the bottom 3 tiers of envelopes a binder's board with a minimum thickness of

0.0098 inch.

Weight, Banding, and Marking

Data Field Description Type of Marking

GPO Contract Award (Purchase Order) Number

Barcode (1D) and Person Readable Text

GPO CLIN Number Barcode (1D) and Person Readable Text

GPO Property Number Three to six digits with “.GP” suffix

Barcode (1D) and Person Readable Text

Quantity Rolls: gross weight with non-returnable core

Pallets and Skids: total number of sheets, envelopes or cartons

Barcode (1D) and Person Readable Text

Unit of Measurement Rolls: Pounds (LB)

Pallets and Skids : Each (EA)

Barcode (1D) and Person Readable Text http://www.asmeny.org/

All flat paper shall be packed on skids. The gross weight shall not exceed 3,500 pounds. Single rolls are not to exceed 3,200 pounds. Ream markers are required. Grain direction must be shown on the label whether or not the grain is stated in the specifications. The height of a loaded skid shall not exceed 60 inches unless approved by the Contracting Officer.

All skids, pallets, or rolls shall be distinctly and accurately marked with barcoded labels. The supplier shall provide all labels.

The supplier shall use a linear, one dimensional (1D) barcode with Code 128 alphanumeric barcode symbology. The readable text for the applicable barcode can be located above, below, right or left of the barcode symbol. All barcodes shall have appropriate spacing between one another to ensure they can be clearly distinguished when being interpreted/read by a barcode scanner.

The barcoded labels shall show these required data fields consisting of person readable text and barcode or person readable text only as defined below:

Barcoded labels are to be pasted on the upper right corner of 2 sides of each pallet or skid at minimum and opposite sides of rolls at a minimum.

The vendor shall send examples of barcoded packaging labels to GPO two weeks prior first order filled under these barcoded label requirements. GPO will test whether our handheld scanners will read these barcodes properly.

The paper shall be securely banded on the skid with a minimum of four (4) plastic or steel bands.

Wrapping: All wrapping material for skids and/or rolls must be recyclable.

Sheet Stock: All paper shall be packed on skids and shall be carefully wrapped and completely encased, top, bottom, and all four sides, securely sealed at all joints with best commercial practice (asphalt-laminated wrappers not acceptable). The wrapping must be sufficient to give adequate protection against damage in transit and ordinary handling. All palletized loads that are stretch-wrapped must be stretch-wrapped all over except the top, which must not be covered with plastic film.

Type of Paper Person Readable Text Only

Color Person Readable Text Only

Size Person Readable Text Only

Substance Person Readable Text Only

Lot Number Person Readable Text Only

Basis Weight Person Readable Text Only

Weight Pallets and Skids: gross, tare and net

Person Readable Text Only

Name of Contractor Person Readable Text Only

Labels and Shipping Memoranda: Labels shall be easy to read and entries printed, stenciled and/or stamped. Skids, pallets, and rolls shall be numbered in consecutive numerical order with no more than a four (4) digit number starting with "1" (one) for each purchase order. All labels are to be provided by the contractor.

All cartons of envelopes shall be distinctly and accurately marked on each end to show type of envelop, quantity, color, size, order number, lot and property numbers, and name of contractor.

Labels are to be pasted on both ends of cartons.

All skids, pallets, or rolls shall be distinctly and accurately marked with labels to show type of paper, quantity, color, size, substance; gross, tare and net weights on skids and gross weight only on rolls with non-returnable cores; order number, lot and property numbers; and name of contractor. Labels are to be pasted on the end and left side of skids and pallets, and on opposite sides of rolls, not on the ends.

On shipments made to the GPO Warehouse, shipping documents shall accompany each shipment to the GPO Warehouse. Failure to comply with these instructions may result in delay in payment or rejection of shipment.

Additionally, an electronic manifest must also be furnished and emailed to Quality Control & Inventory Management Department qcimd@gpo.gov for each shipmen\. The contractor shall provide a manifest in accordance with the EMBARC standard. An alternate format may be acceptable and provide the following information subject to acceptance by the Government:

supplier name, ship date, shipping weight, total items in shipment, and a detailed skid/roll listing with basis weight, stock description, skid/roll identifier, size, tare weight and gross weight, and sheet count. Information on EMBARC standards is available through www.idealliance.org:

On direct shipments made to other federal agencies, the shipping documents shalt be emailed to Paper Control at papercontrol@gpo.gov within 2 days after delivery has been made. Requested Proof of Delivery documents are to be furnished within three working days.

E. INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE

(a) Inspection and acceptance of services to be furnished hereunder shall be performed at place of performance or destination, by the COTR or his designated representative, in accordance with Section E.1, and any other provisions specified in this contract. The Government reserves the right to conduct any inspection and tests it deems reasonably necessary to assure that the services provided conform in all respects to the contract specifications. Services which upon inspection are found not to be in conformance with contractual specifications shall be promptly rejected and notice of such rejection, together with appropriate instructions will be provided to the Contractor by the Contracting Officer.

(b) Inspection will be completed within thirty (30) calendar days after completion.

E.1 INSPECTION, TESTING, ACCEPTANCE OR REJECTION

a. Mill Inspection

The contracting officer may at any time cause inspection to be made of the manufacturer of the paper, paperboard, corrugated containers, or envelope stock and/or converting plant in such manner as either may desire.

mailto:qcimd@gpo.gov http://www.idealliance.org/ mailto:papercontrol@gpo.gov

The contractor shall maintain records, for purposes of Government audit, that will verify (i) the contractor's certification of the minimum recovered materials including cotton/linen and/or postconsumer fiber used in the performance of the contract, (ii) that the paper, envelopes and corrugated containers are in compliance with the specification requirements and, (iii) the paper, envelopes and corrugated containers are manufactured in accordance with the minimum content standard stated in the solicitation, whether the material are manufactured by the contractor or another manufacturer. The contractor if not the manufacturer, shall obtain this information from the manufacturer. The contractor shall maintain and make these documents available to the Government, upon request, for one year after the expiration of the contract.

b. Mill Letter

Each bidder shall submit a separate mill letter with their bid containing the complete names and mailing addresses, including zip codes, of the manufacturer of the paper, proposed by the bidder. The mill representative's name, telephone and email address shall also be included. No change shall be made in the name or location of the manufacturer without prior approval by the U.S. Government Publishing Office.

c. Commercial Colors Commercial colors are acceptable for all grades in this solicitation except for lots 202 and 203. Once the Government has accepted a color/shade for a particular item, color/shade uniformity shall be maintained throughout the term of the contract. Products (brand name or item numbers) offered must be on the Qualified Products List or the color/shade shall be approved prior to the first delivery.

(Section J).

d. Sheets Damaged In Transit All sheets will be inspected for transit damage upon receipt and the damage will be photographed.

Sheets with excessive damage will not be accepted. Photographs of damaged sheets will be forwarded to the contractor via email. The contractor has 48 hours to examine the transit damage at GPO before sheets are placed into inventory and processed as a charge back for the lost paper due to transit damage

e. Testing All items shall be subject to inspection and tested by the Government to the extent practicable and at all times and places including the period of manufacture, and in any event, prior to acceptance. Testing standards use in measuring the characteristics of paper and envelope are found in Part 2 of the Government Paper Specification Standards and those standards used in testing cartons include the following:

Bursting strength (carton): Use T- 81O Corrugation: Use ASTM 04727 ECT (carton): Use T-839 Construction of Carton (style, flaps, joints, etc.): Use T-827, T-829, and ASTM 05118

A. Contractor Inspection Responsibility- The contractor's manufacturer shall provide and maintain an inspection system that is acceptable to the Government covering the lots to be delivered hereunder. The inspection system required to be maintained by the contractor's manufacturer may be at the contractor's own facilities or any other inspection facilities or services acceptable to the Government. It shall be utilized to perform all Inspection and tests of materials and components prior to incorporation into end articles and for such end articles prior to offering them for delivery under the contract. The contractor’s manufacturer is responsible for controlling product quality and for offering to the Government for acceptance only items that conform to contract requirements. Copies of all the inspection records and test results shall be furnished with the outturn (beginning, middle, end of run), samples. The right is reserved by the Government to evaluate the acceptability and effectiveness of the contractor's manufacturer inspection system prior to award and periodically during the contract period.

B. In no event shall the Government's right to inspect and test completely any or all Lots offered for delivery or ordered under the contract be waived. Failure of the contractor's manufacturer to maintain an acceptable inspection system may result in termination of the contract.

f. Sampling and Testing of Deliveries

All items supplied under this solicitation must be approved prior to the first delivery for color and construction of the item. The CO may waive prior approval of an item if the product is on the Qualified Products List (QPL). See Section below for sample submission requirements (also in Section J). After an item has been approved, QC Samples are required for each new manufacturing run of an item manufactured specifically for the GPO rather than a commercial item.

A. Qualified Product -A product supplied under this solicitation shall conform to the specification requirements. In order for a brand name to be ·included in the GPO's QPL, it must be tested and qualified. The brand name product shall meet all the requirements for qualification. For qualification testing/evaluation, the sample set described below in the QPL sample requirement paragraph is required.

QPL Sample -The bidder shall submit not less than 25 pieces for paper, 10 for envelopes and 2 for corrugated Cartons for testing/evaluation. The sample set shall be marked QPL Samples and Include an original signed and dated covering document with the following information: (A) Product name or product identification number (B) Lot number(s) or JCP number (C) the recovered materials Including cotton/linen and/or postconsumer fiber content (D) the typical characteristics of the product.

B. QC Samples- Submission of QC samples apply to items manufactured SPECIFICALLY for GPO.

Detailed manufacturing test data and/or a certificate of analysis (COA) shall be provided electronically, via e-mail to gcimd@gpo.gov upon completion of the manufacturing /converting run along with submission of QC samples under separate cover. The COA and/or test data from the paper manufacturer and inspection test data from the envelope and carton converting operation must be certified by the QNQC official and not the contractor. The submissions shall include the email address for the technical contact at the manufacturing or converting operation.

From each manufacturing/ converting run, the manufacturer shall submit to the GPO 3 sets of outturns (beginning, middle, end of run), samples consisting of not less than 25 pieces in each 8-1/2 X 11 inches or equivalent in size for paper, not less than 10 envelopes in each set or 2 cartons per set. The outturn samples (not less than 75 pieces total for paper, 30 totals for envelopes and 6 totals for corrugated cartons), shall be marked and represent the beginning, middle, and end for each manufacturing/ converting run. (A manufacturing or converting run is defined as the continuous product of an item using the same lot of raw materials and equipment.) Sampling shall be conducted in accordance with the current edition of TAPPI T-400, Sampling and accepting a single lot of paper, paperboard, container board, or related product, or equivalent sampling plan. The sample set shall include an original signed and dated covering document with the following information: (a) GPO purchase order number, (b) the manufacturing /converter's run number and date, (c) the quantity manufactured for GPO represented by the sample (d) the description of the item including the GPO lot number, (e) a statement as to the sampling plan used, (f) the recovered materials including cotton/linen and/or postconsumer fiber content of the item, and (g) a statement as to the date the test data was emailed.

C. Standard stock item of paper envelope or corrugated container supplied to GPO. The contractor may simply provide a statement certifying to the recovered material and/or- postconsumer fiber content, product name, item number, or other information to identify the commercial product. Test data is not required. Each stock item shall have a manufacturing run or date to identify each individual unit.

Send all samples marked "QC Samples" or "QPL Samples" to:

US Government Publishing Office Chief, Testing and Technical Services Division Stop QCT, Room 502 Washington, DC 20401

All technical correspondence should be emailed to qcimd@gpo.gov or sent to the above address to the attention of the Chief, Testing and Technical Services Division.

g. Acceptance Criteria

In order to ensure that contractual requirements are met, an acceptance criterion is a part of the technical evaluation. The acceptance criteria are in the Government Paper Specification Standards Part 4. Some properties have 2 levels in their acceptance criteria "precision requirements" or "regular requirements". The applicable acceptance criteria are stated in the "Specifications for Paper, Envelope, and Carton Lots" table. For those properties not listed in Part 4, use criteria number 34 or 35 as applicable in the Government Paper Specification Standards.

A. Testing-- Paper and envelopes will be inspected and tested physically, microscopically, and chemically by the U.S. Government Publishing Office, Testing and Technical Services Division.

Necessary tests will be conducted and the findings, along with the test data furnished by the manufacturer, will be used to ascertain whether the specifications have been complied with, and will be compared with the established standards to determine their conformity in color, finish, formation, cleanliness, and writing and printing qualities.

Recommendations of acceptance or rejection of the stock will be based on these tests and manufacturers' furnished test reports. All testing and measurements are made against the primary requirements.

B. Rejection--The contractor will be notified in writing of the determination of the contracting officer to reject nonconforming stock. The decision of the contracting officer shall be final and conclusive unless within 5 days from the date of receipt of said decision the contractor mails or otherwise furnishes to the contracting officer a written request for retesting of the allegedly deficient paper. Such request must include specific rationale for the dispute along with supporting documentation such as the manufacturer's test data for each item in question. In the event of such request, the U.S. Government Publishing Office will make a new test. At the option of the Government, the new test will be made on the representative samples obtained by re-sampling of the delivery (is) or through resubmission by the manufacturer.

1. If a requested retest confirms the original test results for the item rejected, it must be removed within two days.

2. If a requested retest does not confirm the original test results for the item rejected, the Government will use all test results in making a new determination.

C. Removal of Deficient Stock -- If the contractor fails to request the retest within the period herein provided, any lots rejected by the contracting officer must be removed from the U.S. Government Publishing Office by the contractor at his expense within three (3) calendar days after receipt of notice of rejection. The contractor must call the warehouse, 202-512-0808, for an appointment prior to removal of stock. An out charge of $6.00 per skid or pallet, $8.00 per roll, or $2.50 per carton will be charged the contractor for loading all rejected paper on trucks. Should the contractor fail to furnish disposition instructions for any rejected stock within the three (3) calendar day period specified above, the GPO shall charge the contractor's account as storage charges at the rate of $20.00 per month or fraction thereof for each skid or pallet, $12.00 per month or fraction thereof for each roll, and $1.50 per month or fraction thereof for each carton. The contracting officer reserves the right to return any rejected stock which has not been removed as specified above to the point of origin freight charges mailto:qcimd@gpo.gov collect.

D. Appeal •• The decision of the contracting officer to reject deficient stock based upon the original inspection and that result or the result of a re-Inspection and retest requested by the contractor shall be final and conclusive unless within 90 days of receipt of said decision, the contractor furnishes the contracting officer with a notice pursuant to the Disputes Clause. The contractor shall proceed diligently with performance and in accordance with the contracting officer's decision. Any stock rejected by the contracting officer on appeal shall be removed in accordance with the provisions of Paragraph (C) above, Removal of Deficient Stock.

E. Risk of Loss - The risk of loss for damage to or destruction of any stock covered by this contract shall remain with the contractor until final acceptance by the Government, at which time, it shall pass to the Government, regardless of when or where the Government takes physical possession.

h. Replacement of Rejected Paper, Envelopes or Corrugated Containers

Rejected stock must be replaced by delivery within 48 hours after receipt of notice of rejection unless otherwise authorized by the contracting officer. Contractor must identify replacement shipments as such on skid, carton, or roil labels and ail shipping documents. Any additional costs incurred by the Government due to delay in making replacement will be charged to the contractor's account.

Latent Defects: Latent defects are discovered after acceptance. The paper, envelope or corrugated containers may be rejected if the defect is of such a nature as to cause excessive lost production.

Unsatisfactory performance in the pressroom or bindery, excessive curl or waviness, etc., are causes for rejection and replacement or penalty.

Latent defect rejections must be replaced in 48 hours.

Deductions: The contractor will be notified in writing of any loss incurred by the Government on account of the delivery of stock which is rejected or found to be defective in any respect, including transit damage to roils, defective packing, marking, winding, flagging, splicing, gumming or curling and ail items of cost, for which a charge will be made to his account. Charges for spoilage and down press time in production will be made at current rates for labor, machine time, stock and material. No deduction will be made unless the estimated loss to the Government exceeds $100.00.

F. DELIVERIES AND PERFORMANCE

F.1 Term of the Contract

This contract consists of a base period of one-year for the period beginning Date of Award through September 30, 2023 and four 1-year option periods.

F.2 Option to Extend Term of Contract

(a) The Government may extend the term of this contract by written notice to the Contractor at any time within the term of the contract, provided that the Government gives the Contractor a preliminary written notice of its intent to extend at least thirty (30) days before the contract expires. The preliminary notice does not commit the Government to an extension.

(b) If the Government exercises this option, the extended contract shall be considered to include this option clause.

(c) The total duration of this contract, including the exercise of any options under this clause, shall not exceed sixty (60) months from the Service Start Date in F.1 above. The Option Year Period of Performance(s) are as follows:

Option Year One: October 1, 2023 thru September 30, 2024 Option Year Two: October 1, 2024 thru September 30, 2025 Option Year Three: October 1, 2025 thru September 30, 2026 Option Year Four: October 1, 2026 thru September 30, 2027

F.3 Limitation of Performance

No delivery schedule more than 90 calendar days past the last day of the contract period will be specified, unless with the consent of the Contractor.

F.4 Deliveries

All deliveries will be F.O.B. U.S. Government Publishing Office, Washington, DC, and/or any destinations within the Washington, DC metropolitan area. Normal delivery hours are from 7:30AM. To 3:30P.M., Monday through Friday. Rush orders will be accepted at any time. Call 202-512-0808 for delivery appointment.

Delivery Addresses: U.S. Government Publishing Office 44 H Street, NW Washington D.C. 20401

For skids, pallets, sheets, envelopes, and containers and roll paper stock (Street Address is Subject to Change). Rush orders require delivery occasionally on a next day, 24-hour, 7 days a week basis including nights, weekends and holidays.

F.5 Delay in Deliveries

The contractor will be considered delinquent if shipment is not made as specified. If shipment is made later than the specified dates, the contractor will be notified immediately of the nonconformance, and any additional cost exceeding $100.00 incurred by the Government as a result thereof shall be charged to the contractor. Penalties and/or damages shall not be applied against the contractor for delays in delivery occasioned by unforeseeable causes beyond the control and without the fault or negligence of the contractor, including but not restricted to, acts of God, or the public enemy, acts of the Government, fires, floods, epidemics, quarantine restrictions, strikes, freight embargoes, unusually severe weather, and delay of a subcontractor due to such causes unless the contracting officer shall determine that the services, materials, or supplies to be furnished under the subcontract were obtainable from other sources in sufficient time to permit the contractor to 1)1881 the required delivery schedule: Provided, that the contractor shall, within 3 calendar days from the beginning of such delay, notify the contracting officer in writing of the cause of the delay: Provided further, that such notice to the contracting officer shall contain the justification for such delay.

The contractor will be considered delinquent if the shipment is not made as specified. If a shipment is made later than the specified date, the contractor will be notified immediately of the nonconformance. If no manufacturing downtime occurs due to the late delivery, a penalty of $1000 per day will be assessed against the contractor for his failure to deliver product within the timeframe specified in section C. If manufacturing downtime does occur due to the late delivery, a penalty of $4000 per day will be assessed against the contractor for his failure to deliver product within the timeframe specified in section C.

G. CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

G.1 ORDERING ACTIVITY

Paper, envelopes, and corrugated containers to be furnished under this contract shall be ordered by issuance of purchase orders issued by the U.S. Government Publishing Office, Acquisition Services.

Orders may be placed only by those individuals designated in writing as Ordering Officials by the

Director Acquisition Services. After award of contract, the paper items ordered under this contract may be ordered by the Contracting Officer or her designee via email, telephone or fax.

Except as this contract may otherwise provide, if the Government's requirements do not result in orders in the quantities described as "estimated" in the contract, that fact shall not constitute the basis for an equitable price adjustment. The Government is not required to purchase from the Contractor any items not ordered during the contract period.

G.2 CONTRACT MANAGEMENT

Notwithstanding…