Attachment 3 - SPE30023R0007 Amendment 0002.pdf

Attachment 3- SPE300-23-R-0007 Amendment 0002

This amendment contains three (3) sections:

- Section I: provides answers to questions that were submitted in reference solicitation

SPE300-23-R-0007

- Section II: contains additional revisions to the solicitation not otherwise included in Section I.

- Section III: contains revisions to the pricing spreadsheet – Attachment 2.

Section I – Questions and Answers

Note: DLA Troop Support received the following questions in response to this solicitation, SPE300-23-R-0007. The responses to these questions are provided for clarification purposes only but may change portions of the solicitation requirements. In the event of any discrepancy between the answers provided in this amendment and the solicitation documents, the solicitation documents will take precedence.

General/Miscellaneous

1. What companies are allowed to apply for this project (SPE300-23-R-0007 Subsistence Prime Vendor Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, and Syria)?

DLA Troop Support Response: This acquisition, SPE300-23-R-0007 Subsistence Prime Vendor Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, and Syria, is being solicited as “Unrestricted.”

2. Since this is an extremely large and complex RFP and OCONUS program, does the government intend to host an industry day or conference?

DLA Troop Support Response: No. A Pre-Proposal Conference will not be held for this acquisition. However, industry questions received will be provided via an amendment to the solicitation.

3. We would like to know if this is a lump sum contract for all the countries mentioned or it will be distributed by country?

DLA Troop Support Response: This solicitation seeks offers for subsistence Prime Vendor support to military and other federally funded customers located throughout the countries of Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, and Syria. The Government intends to make one award, and the SPV must have the ability to support all requirements for each of these locations as outlined in the Request for Proposal (RFP).

4. Can the statement of work be provided for this acquisition, as well as information related to the last contract for this region (dollar values, etc.).

DLA Troop Support Response: This solicitation was posted to the DLA Internet Bid Board System (DIBBS), SAM.gov website, and the Subsistence website. In addition, refer to the Subsistence website for information related to all Subsistence Prime Vendor (SPV) contracts and solicitations.

5. Solicitation – Attachment 1, Page 135, Section VIII. Inventory, Warehouse Management, and Office Space, D.2. states: "…If equipment is required for these inspections, Army Veterinary Service will notify the Prime Vendor accordingly and the Prime Vendor will provide this equipment at no additional cost to the Government." Request Government delete from solicitation, or edit with specific equipment details for Prime Vendor to quote against.

DLA Troop Support Response: Solicitation – Attachment 1, Section VIII. Inventory, Warehouse Management, and Office Space, Paragraph D.2. will be revised, via an amendment to the solicitation, to read, “If equipment is required for these inspections, Army Veterinary Service will notify the Prime Vendor accordingly and the Prime Vendor will provide this equipment for the Army Veterinary Service to complete its inspection. The Prime Vendor will notify the Contracting Officer, after completion of the inspection, of the acquisition of such equipment required if not already in the possession of the Prime Vendor.

Upon review and discretion of the Contracting Officer, the Prime Vendor may be entitled to be reimbursement of such equipment.”

6. Is there a minimum associated dollar value to a normal delivery? Is the minimum order size for Prime Vendor delivery correct at $250.00 as listed in clause 52.216.19 on page 27?

DLA Troop Support Response: Reference is made to FAR Clause 52.216-19 Order Limitations (OCT 1995). Within this clause, Section (a) Minimum order, states, “When the Government requires supplies or services covered by this contract in an amount of less than $250.00, the Government is not obligated to purchase, nor is the Contractor obligated to furnish, those supplies or services under the contract.”

7. Considering the nature of the Solicitation, the area of operations and the complex logistics requirements involved, would DLA consider revising this limit to $2,500.00?

DLA Troop Support Response: No. Reference is made to FAR Clause 52.216-19 Order Limitations (OCT 1995). Within this clause, Section (a) Minimum order, states, “When the Government requires supplies or services covered by this contract in an amount of less than

8. Will awarded Prime Vendor receive CAC Cards/Entry permits for US and Host National Military bases to perform deliveries and customer visits?

DLA Troop Support Response: Reference is made to the solicitation – Attachment 1, Procurement Note H14 Contractor Personnel Security Requirements (JAN 2021) and Section IX: Security Measures/Force Protection and Theater Support Paragraph C, Theater Support for details related to CAC/Cards/Entry permits.

9. The following is included in the SOW: When requested, the Prime Vendor is required to furnish beverage dispensing machines and beverage products, as specified herein. The cost and upkeep of the machines consisting of, but not limited to, labor, transportation, and supplies required to repair and maintain the equipment, shall be the sole responsibility of the

Prime Vendor. Additionally, The Prime Vendor shall furnish mechanically refrigerated dispensing machines. Is the SPV responsible for purchasing these machines if the product vendors will not provide the machines?

DLA Troop Support Response: Refer to the solicitation – Attachment 1, Section V.

Product Sourcing and Pricing, Paragraph O. Dispensing Supplies and Services, for information related to dispensing machines and beverage products.

10. SOW: “The Subsistence Prime Vendor will be responsible for costs incurred for delays due to improper or erroneous documentation.” What if the Government issued customs documents for importation of goods are late or incorrect resulting in delays and demerges and other costs. Please advise who will be responsible.

DLA Troop Support Response: Reference is made to the solicitation – Attachment 1, Section VI. Transportation, Paragraph I. Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), 4. which states, “The U.S. Government is not responsible for any costs resulting from or related to delays due to improper or erroneous documentation.” Additional information can be found in Section VI. Transportation, Paragraph C. Customs, which states, “The ocean carrier via the USTRANSCOM contract will be responsible for all customs clearance from the point of debarkation through to the Prime Vendor’s OCONUS facility(s). Therefore, the Prime Vendor is only responsible for customs clearance from his OCONUS facility(s) to the final delivery points within the region. The Prime Vendor is, however, responsible for providing any necessary documentation to assist in customs clearance.

11. Has DLA TS considered in the timeline of this solicitation includes Ramadan and associated EID holidays which approx. represents 25% of the biding window? If not, should the closing date of this solicitation not be put at a later date?

This period significantly affects the time it takes to engage with suppliers and subcontractors and to receive information to support the development of a proposal. Requesting a minimum 5-week extension to accommodate this religious period and to reflect the current escalated security situation within the region.

DLA Troop Support Response: Amendment 0001 to the solicitation extended the closing date to 3:00 PM Eastern Time on May 19, 2024.

12. On page 5 of the solicitation attachment 1, block 8 is omitted. Should there be a block 8?

DLA Troop Support Response: Refer to the Standard Form (SF) 1449 for Block 8 details.

The solicitation (Attachment 1), specifically when referencing Block 8, is a continuation from the SF1449.

13. On page 6 of the solicitation, attachment 1, in box 12 the language reads "Limit your technical proposal to no more than 200 pages. An additional 75 pages will be allowed for supporting documentation such as lease and carrier agreements. Font must be Times New Roman size 12. Pages must be single sided", however, on page 197 "Initial technical proposals are limited to no more than 75 pages. An additional 75 pages will be allowed for supporting documentation such as lease and carrier agreements. Font must be Times New Roman size 12. Pages must be single sided." Can you please clarify the page limit for the technical proposal and also the supporting documentation.

DLA Troop Support Response: Initial technical proposals are limited to no more than 75 pages. An additional 75 pages will be allowed for supporting documentation such as lease and carrier agreements. Number 12 of the Caution Notice/checklist will be updated, via Amendment 0002 to the solicitation, to correct the error. Number 12 of the Caution Notice/checklist now reads: “Limit your technical proposal to no more than 75 pages. An additional 75 pages will be allowed for supporting documentation such as lease and carrier agreements. Font must be Times New Roman size 12. Pages must be single sided.”

14. Page 196 seems to have conflicting information under b) general submission requirements information (i)"All information is to be submitted in writing" and then (iii) "are required to be uploaded". Please confirm that no printed offers should be sent to the Contracting Officer.

DLA Troop Support Response: Confirmed. No hard copy, printed offers shall be sent to the Contracting Officer.

15. Could DLA confirm that the Offeror must be registered and authorized to operate within each country covered under this Solicitation? Could DLA further confirm if Offerors are permitted to be incorporated and registered within Syria?

DLA Troop Support Response: This solicitation seeks offers for subsistence Prime Vendor support to military and other federally funded customers located throughout the countries of Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, and Syria. All offerors should consult the U.S. Department of State and other appropriate resources for the latest information on operations in Iraq and Syria.

16. Please could DLA confirm if there are any non-US customers supported under this contract, such as local Iraqi Military, Jordanian Military, Host Country Nation / Coalition Forces?

DLA Troop Support Response: The Prime Vendor will be required to support all authorized DLA customers located in Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, and Syria (i.e. military shore and/or ship facilities, mobile kitchen tents (“MKTs”), ration break points, trailer-transfer points, and military training exercise locations, etc.). These customers include military or other federally funded customers. Though the solicitation describes existing customers known to the Contracting Officer at the time of the solicitation’s issuance, other customers, including military, Department of Defense (“DoD”), or non-DOD, may be added as necessary during the life of any resultant contract. The addition of said customers located within the solicitation’s specified region will be at no additional cost to the Government.

Section D. Local Market Ready Items of the solicitation – Attachment 1 also references support of LMR items for local partner forces.

17. Please confirm what is the annual and total dollar value of the current contract held by the incumbent?

DLA Troop Support Response: Refer to the Subsistence website for information related to Subsistence Prime Vendor (SPV) contracts and solicitations.

18. Please can DLA share a full list of Local Partner forces delivery locations, product specifications, pack size, brand, photos, as per current catalogue and frequency of deliveries?

DLA Troop Support Response: Historically, deliveries in support of these customers are made to locations within Jordan and Iraq; however, details and locations of these deliveries are subject to change throughout the life of this resultant contract.

19. Please could you provide the anticipated date of award of this Solicitation?

DLA Troop Support Response: That information is unknown at this time and is not generally made public.

20. Please could you confirm if there are any planned new countries to be added into this contract / zone in the near future?

DLA Troop Support Response: No additional countries are anticipated to be added at this time.

21. Is there a SOFA / MOU or other similar documented agreement between the USG and each country within the AOR that covers USG contractor / PV status? If so, please could DLA provide copies of any such agreements?

DLA Troop Support Response: Reference is made to the solicitation – Attachment 1, Section VII. International Agreements, Workers Compensation Insurance, and Interpretations/Translations, Paragraph A. International Agreements (i.e. Defense Cooperation Agreement, Diplomatic Notes, Status of Forces Agreement (“SOFA”), etc.), which states, “Shipments to the solicited zones are subject to whatever country-to-country agreements may exist between those countries and the United States. Each offeror, and ultimately the Prime Vendor selected as the awardee, is therefore responsible for ascertaining, for all countries to which their offers apply, the precise rules and regulations, limitations, documentation requirements, and restrictions that apply to imports for the use of the U.S. Forces.”

22. Please can DLA confirm how many Blanket Purchase Agreements for FFV, water, beverages and LMR are in place across the area of responsibility and whether these are going to be terminated, with volumes given back into the new SPV contract.

DLA Troop Support Response: DLA Troop Support is the Executive Agent for Class I.

Purchases of these items for this area of responsibility should be made through DLA Troop Support under the SPV IJKS contract. Historically, BPAs have been in place for various OCONUS locations, but DLA Troop Support is not aware of any DLA Troop Support BPA’s in place at this time for this area of responsibility.

23. Section V. Paragraph O. Dispensing Supplies and Services, Subsection 4. states: "Any equipment or material furnished by the Prime Vendor shall remain the property of the Prime Vendor and must be returned to the Prime Vendor at the conclusion of the contract in the same condition in which it was received by the customer." Question: Is DLA's expectation for the incoming Prime Vendor to replace all dispensing equipment with brand new equipment?

DLA Troop Support Response: Reference is made to the solicitation – Attachment 1, Section V. Product Sourcing and Pricing, Paragraph O. Dispensing Supplies and Services, 1.

which states, “When requested, the Prime Vendor is required to furnish beverage dispensing machines and beverage products, as specified herein. The cost and upkeep of the machines consisting of, but not limited to, labor, transportation, and supplies required to repair and maintain the equipment, shall be the sole responsibility of the Prime Vendor.”

24. Given the complex logistics and security considerations in the regions covered, could you provide more detailed guidance or examples on how delivery schedules have been managed in past contracts, especially regarding any flexibility during unforeseen circumstances?

DLA Troop Support Response: Detailed guidance or examples on how delivery schedules have been managed in past contracts will not be provided. It is incumbent on the Prime Vendor to perform the duties and responsibilities set forth in this Statement of Work (“SOW”). In addition, reference is made to the solicitation - Attachment 1, Section II.

Introduction, which states, “As an offeror, each firm must be aware of the overall fluidity of the political, legal, economic, security, and military climate of the region and incorporate that into its proposal accordingly. Offerors are also advised to consult with the U.S. Department of State and other appropriate resources for the latest information on the political and security conditions inside Iraq and Syria.”

25. Will the 2% tax requirement be added to the Contractor proposed price, or should the Contractor estimate accordingly?

DLA Troop Support Response: Reference is made to the solicitation – Attachment 1, Section F. Payments, 8., which states, “The Internal Revenue Services issued its final regulations in Federal Register Vol 81, No. 160 on August 18, 2016 concerning section 301 of Public Law 111-347 (dated January 2, 2011), which added section 5000C to the Internal Revenue Code. The final regulations provide guidance on the applicability of Section 5000C(a) which imposes on any foreign person that receives a specified Federal procurement payment, a tax equal to 2 percent of the amount of such payment. The Defense Logistics Agency is working on implementation, and once that is complete collection will commence.”

Additional reference is made to FAR Clause 52.229-12 Tax on Certain Foreign Procurements, which is incorporated into the solicitation by reference.

DLA Internet Bid Boards System (DIBBS)

26. Regarding DIBBS registration, should the company be registered on the website (DIBBS)?

How does the company handle challenges with the website?

DLA Troop Support Response: Reference is made to the solicitation - Attachment 1, SF1449 – Continuation Page, Administrative Data/Delivery Schedule, which states, “All offers are required to be uploaded to the DLA Internet Bid Boards System (DIBBS). Please visit the DIBBS website to submit your proposal: https://www.dibbs.bsm.dla.mil.”

“NOTE: The DLA Internet Bid Boards System (DIBBS), IS NOW THE ONLY form of transmission for submission of initial proposals. Please visit the DIBBS website to submit your proposal: https://www.dibbs.bsm.dla.mil. As directed by the Contracting Officer, facsimile, e-mail, and the DoD Safe electronic platform (https://safe.apps.mil/) may be used during discussions/negotiations, if discussions/negotiations are held, for proposal revision(s), including Final Proposal revision(s).”

Please also refer to Attachment 4 - DIBBS Proposal Instructions for the instructions on how to submit an offeror proposal through DIBBS. As stated in this attachment, “NOTE: If the ability to upload proposals is unavailable for any reason, this does not constitute an acceptable reason for a late bid.”

27. The Solicitation states that the DLA Internet Bid Boards System (DIBBS) is now the only form of transmission for submission of initial proposals. In order to register for DIBBS, a Physical Address Verification Number is required, which is sent to the contractor via post card to the address listed in SAM. According to the DIBBS Help Desk, two attempts must be made before an alternate means of providing a Physical Address Verification Number can be obtained. OCONUS mail delivery systems in certain parts of the world are not necessarily as reliable as in the US, so the Contractor may not receive them in a timely manner, if at all.

In the event the mail system fails to deliver these post cards in a timely manner, will the Government facilitate expediting a method of delivery for the Physical Address Verification Number in order to register in DIBBS in time to be able to meet the proposal submission deadline?

If the answer to the question above is "NO", will the Government authorize an alternate means of proposal submission in the event DIBBS registration cannot be obtained in time to meet the proposal deadline?

DLA Troop Support Response: No. In the event the mail system fails to deliver these post cards in a timely manner, the Government will not facilitate expediting a method of delivery for the Physical Address Verification Number in order to register in DIBBS.

Notice to Offerors/Caution Notice

28. Please advise if page limitation is exclusive of cover page and Table of Contents.

Respectfully request specific instructions/guidance on page limitation.

https://www.dibbs.bsm.dla.mil/ https://safe.apps.mil/

DLA Troop Support Response: Initial technical proposals are limited to no more than 75 pages. An additional 75 pages will be allowed for supporting documentation such as lease and carrier agreements. These page limitations are exclusive of cover pages and Tables of Contents included within an offeror’s technical/non-price proposal submission. This is also exclusive of cover pages and quote sheets for an offeror’s Business/Price proposal submission.

29. Given the page and font size limitations, will the Government allow for a reduced font for Tables and Graphics?

DLA Troop Support Response: No. To ensure legibility for evaluation purposes, the font for all documentation must be Times New Roman size 12.

30. Please Clarify which Volume to include the Small Business Subcontracting Plan (Number 13 of Caution Notice).

DLA Troop Support Response: See FAR 52.219-9 for Small Business Subcontracting Plan submission requirements. In addition to the submission of Volumes I through III of this solicitation, an offeror’s Small Business Subcontracting Plan shall be submitted as a separate document by the solicitation closing date. This document is not to be included in the page limitation requirements outlined in Questions 13 and 14 above.

31. The subcontracting goals listed in the reminder are the DoD FY2023 goals. Should Offerors use the current goals for DoD FY2024 as of 01/12/2024?

DLA Troop Support Response: Reference is made to Factor III – Implementation and Management Plans, Submission Requirement, 5., and Evaluation Criteria – Section A -Factor III for details on small business subcontracting goals. However, the DoD small business subcontracting goals, as outlined in the Caution Notice within the solicitation – Attachment 1, will be updated, via Amendment 0002, to reflect the FY24 small business subcontracting goals.

Clauses/Provisions

32. FAR Clause 52.215-6 (b), within the solicitation states that if the place of performance is different than the address of the Offeror, the Offeror "shall insert in the following spaces the required information:". This is essentially the same as information required in the Technical Proposal. Can the Government clarify whether or not this section will be waived for completion as part of the Solicitation submission if Offeror provides this information in the Technical Proposal?

DLA Troop Support Response: Offerors shall provide all information required within this clause, as applicable, as well as in accordance with the submission requirements for Factor I

– Warehouse Location and Capability.

33. In the Addendum to FAR 52.212-4 – Contract Terms and Conditions – Commercial Items, Section 2.(c)(3), recommend changing verbiage from "…causes an increase of decrease in…" to "…causes an increase or decrease in…"

DLA Troop Support Response: Section 2.(c)(3) should read: “If such change causes an increase or decrease in the cost of, or time required for, performance for any part of the work under this contract, the Contracting Officer shall make equitable adjustment in the contract price, the delivery schedule, or both, and shall modify the contract.” This change will be reflected, via Amendment 0002, to the solicitation, to correct the error.

34. Will the Gov't consider including the following Clauses:

52.228-4 Workers Compensation and War Hazard Insurance, 52.246-23 Limitation of Liability, 52.246-24 Limitation of Liability - High Value Items, 52.246-25 Limitation of Liability - Services, 52.249-14 Excusable Delays, 252.228-7000 Reimbursement for War- Hazard Losses and 252.228-7003 Capture and Detention

DLA Troop Support Response: No. It is not the Government’s intention to include these clauses in this solicitation or resultant contract at this time. Should these clauses be deemed necessary at a later date, these will be incorporated via an amendment to the solicitation or post award, via a contract modification.

35. On page 26 clause 52.216-1, is missing a period at the end of the sentence. Is there any additional information pertaining to the fill in portion of the clause that was omitted that was meant to be included?

DLA Troop Support Response: No. No additional information pertaining to the fill in portion of the clause was meant to be included. This will be updated, via an amendment to the solicitation, to correct the error and add a period at the end of the clause.

36. In reference to H14 Contractor Personnel Security Requirements (JAN 2021), please confirm that NACI, or equivalent, and any required IT checks, are to be progressed, as needed, post contract award and there are no requirements prior to proposal submission?

DLA Troop Support Response: Please review details of H14 Contractor Personnel Security Requirements (JAN 2021) for clarification.

Contract Implementation/Transition

37. Page 71 under Section IV. CONTRACT IMPLEMENTATION PHASE, a.2.iii., in the first bullet it states: “In accordance with the average demand history for each item, quantities sold to the new Prime Vendor shall be a minimum of 4 months of stock (where available) and shall not exceed 8 months of stock, unless otherwise approved by the Contracting Officer, which would account for a total pipeline (stock on hand and receipted replenishment quantities to include stock levels for surge and sustainment requirements).” Under this provision, it appears that the new Prime Vendor must purchase a minimum of 4 months of stock and not more than 8 months of stock from the current Prime Vendor.

In the sixth bullet it states” The new Prime Vendor will only be entitled to 50% of its standard distribution price (non-standard distribution price, if applicable, will be paid in full) for product purchased from the incumbent Prime Vendor in accordance with this section and ultimately delivered to customers under the resulting contract. The incumbent Prime Vendor will receive 100% of its standard distribution price for delivery of this product to the new Prime Vendor’s warehouse(s).”

a. Given that warehousing costs, risk, and shipping costs represent the largest portion of the standard distribution price, how did DLA determine 50% of the standard distribution price to be justifiable, fair, and reasonable?

b. The outgoing Prime Vendor may have no incentive to properly manage their supply chain, based on their ability to recover 100% of their distribution fees for all products sold to the new Prime Vendor. Their operating costs and profits for their stock will be realized in a short period of time (during the duration of product transfer from their warehouse to the new Prime Vendor warehouse), and not during the standard distribution period that would otherwise apply when executing the contract.

c. How will DLA calculate each bidder’s distribution fees/pricing for the first year of operations when evaluating proposals? Will the total evaluated cost be reduced to offset the 50% distribution fee? Will the incumbent’s cost proposal be increased?

d. The incumbent may have a 50% distribution fee/cost recovery advantage in their cost/offer model, when compared to other bidders that will be forced to increase the distribution fees to recover the missing 50% during the life of the contract. This provision may be unreasonable and may lack an understanding of the specific cost element’s impacts (negative or positive) on the outgoing and new Prime Vendor.

DLA Troop Support Response: This language, as written, is correct. First, in accordance with the average demand history for each item, quantities sold to the new Prime Vendor shall be a minimum of 4 months of stock (where available) and shall not exceed 8 months of stock, unless otherwise approved by the Contracting Officer, which would account for a total pipeline (stock on-hand and receipted replenishment quantities to include stock levels for surge and sustainment requirements). Second, the incumbent Prime Vendor will be entitled to 100% of its standard distribution price for delivering any residual inventory to the new, incoming Prime Vendor not only to cover those delivery costs to the new Prime Vendor, but also to cover those inbound transportation costs for ordering and inventorying those items prior to the transition, as well as any other costs not included in its non-standard distribution price(s). That said, it was determined fair and reasonable that the new Prime Vendor would then, only be entitled to 50% of its standard distribution price for those residual items purchased from the incumbent Prime Vendor given the absence of those risks and costs outlined in the solicitation. Each offeror’s distribution prices for the entire 60-month performance period covered under this solicitation will be evaluated as outlined in the solicitation. The total evaluated price will neither be reduced to offset the 50% reduction in the new Prime Vendor’s standard distribution prices nor increased for that of the incumbent Prime Vendor.

38. The Sample Implementation Phase chart within Section IV. Contract Implementation Phase, Paragraph A. Contract Implementation Phase – Ramp Up, 2, refers to “last” and “first”

OCONUS replenishments. Should this reference not be to the last CONUS replenishment of the outgoing SPV and first CONUS replenishment of the incoming SPV?

DLA Troop Support Response: No. Reference to these terms is for the incoming and outgoing SPV replenishments at the respective OCONUS facilities.

Product Sanitarily Approved Source Requirements

39. Based on customer requirements reflected during cataloging, the Prime Vendor will select LMR vendors when required from the United States Central Command (“CENTCOM”) listing of Sanitarily Approved Establishments and/or the Worldwide Directory of Sanitarily Approved Establishments for Armed Forces Procurement listing for approved local Kuwaiti, Iraqi, Syrian and Jordanian vendors. The Sanitary Approved Establishment Listing does indicate approved sources in Iraq neither in Syria and limited approved vendors in Jordan.

Can you please provide the listing of approved suppliers in those countries for items listed in the market basket sheet?

DLA Troop Support Response: Please see the Worldwide Directory of Sanitarily Approved Food Establishments for Armed Forces Procurement, (Worldwide Directory) (available at:

http://phc.amedd.army.mil/topics/foodwater/ca/Pages/DoDApprovedFoodSources.aspx), for the listing of approved food establishments. Post-Award, the awardee may contact the Contracting Officer with questions regarding this process and available establishments in the requested regions.

Food Service Operating Supplies (FSOS)

40. Is FSOS, Class II, currently supplied by the incumbent?

DLA Troop Support Response: Yes; however, FSOS items are considered Class I supplies.

41. If so, would this be the case under the new contract?

DLA Troop Support Response: The Prime Vendor may be required to supply FSOS items to the customers.

42. Is FSOS LMR or US made?

DLA Troop Support Response: This depends on the items being procured.

Global Positioning System (GPS)

43. Do all countries under the Solicitation allow the use of GPS on trucks / delivery vehicles?

DLA Troop Support Response: Reference is made to the solicitation -Attachment 1, Section VI. Paragraph G. Global Positioning System (GPS) for all information related to the use of GPS. The Prime Vendor is required to have a Global Positioning System (GPS) that closely monitors all bobtails, flatbeds, shipment containers, reefers, non-tactical vehicles, etc.

http://phc.amedd.army.mil/topics/foodwater/ca/Pages/DoDApprovedFoodSources.aspx that are destined for delivery to all locations to include Iraq. The units are required to be tagged with GPS devices.

44. If any country does not allow the use of GPS, please confirm that the Prime Vendor will be relieved from the responsibility to provide GPS tracking?

DLA Troop Support Response: The Prime Vendor is required to have a Global Positioning System (GPS) that closely monitors all bobtails, flatbeds, shipment containers, reefers, non-tactical vehicles, etc. that are destined for delivery to all locations to include Iraq. The units are required to be tagged with GPS devices.

45. Provide more details on RF-ITV and a list of GPS units that are compatible and can interface with RF-ITV?

DLA Troop Support Response: This is the Prime Vendor’s responsibility to determine what GPS units are compatible and can interface with RF-ITV. Reference is also made to the solicitation – Attachment 1, Section VI. Transportation, Paragraph G. Global Positioning System (GPS), for details related to GPS and RF-ITV systems/devices.

Emergency Orders

46. Is there a minimum associated dollar value to warrant a customer emergency delivery?

DLA Troop Support Response: Reference is made to FAR Clause 52.216-19 Order Limitations (OCT 1995). Within this clause, Section (a) Minimum order, states, “When the Government requires supplies or services covered by this contract in an amount of less than

47. What defines an emergency order and will all emergency orders be approved by the contracting officer?

DLA Troop Support Response: Reference is made to the solicitation - Attachment 1, Section XV. Delivery, Title, Orders, and Order Fill Rates, Paragraph G. Emergency Orders, 1., which states, “Emergency orders placed by the customer are those that are required outside of the normal delivery schedules. The Prime Vendor will provide a maximum of two

(2) such “emergency” orders (excluding mobilization actions) per month per customer at no additional cost to DLA Troop Support or its customers. Any emergency greater than two (2) allowable “emergency” orders will need to be approved at the Contracting Officers discretion and must be entered into STORES.” Additionally, Section VI. Transportation. Paragraph J.

Airlifts, 1. states, “No more than three (3) emergency airlifts pertaining to customers located within Kuwait may be directed by the Contracting Officer in any given calendar year.”

48. How does the PV recognize an emergency order from a normal order?

DLA Troop Support Response: Reference is made to the solicitation - Attachment 1, Section XV. Delivery, Title, Orders, and Order Fill Rates, Paragraph G. Emergency Orders, 1., which states, “Emergency orders placed by the customer are those that are required outside of the normal delivery schedules.”

Customer Ordering

49. Regarding customer ordering, the Statement of Work (SOW) indicates:

a. For Kuwait customers, most locations will require deliveries every other day, but some may be required every day. Could a specific weekly delivery frequency be provided per location?

DLA Troop Support Response: Overall estimates are included in the solicitation. It is incumbent on the Prime Vendor to perform the duties and responsibilities set forth in this Statement of Work (SOW).

b. For Iraq customers, most locations will require deliveries at least twice a week. Could a specific weekly delivery frequency be provided per location?

DLA Troop Support Response: Overall estimates are included in the solicitation. It is

c. For Jordan customers, most locations will require deliveries at least twice a week. Could a specific weekly delivery frequency be provided per location?

DLA Troop Support Response: Overall estimates are included in the solicitation. It is

d. For Syria customers, the SOW does not include customers in Syria but it is anticipated that deliveries to Syria may be required during the five-year contract term. Could DLA please provide past delivery locations in Syria?

DLA Troop Support Response: Overall estimates are included in the solicitation. It is

e. For all customers, can you provide the frequency for airlift transportation?

DLA Troop Support Response: Please refer to the solicitation - Attachment 1, Section VI. Transportation, Paragraph J. Airlifts for information related to airlift transportation.

50. Under “Customers” the solicitation lists the customers in the various countries that are part of this solicitation.

a. Both Kuwait and Jordan listed customers have US Navy and USCG ships listed. Are these homeported ships or are these visiting ships?

DLA Troop Support Response: A general guide as to the number of delivery points and customers for all locations under this solicitation have been provided.

b. Can additional location details be provided (city, grid)?

DLA Troop Support Response: No. This information will not be provided at this time.

c. Is there an additional breakdown available by location / site within Kuwait, Jordan and Iraq?

DLA Troop Support Response: No. This information will not be provided at this time.

d. Must the PV use dedicated trucks for customer deliveries? If not, are commercial goods allowed on base?

DLA Troop Support Response: As outlined in the solicitation – Attachment 1, this solicitation seeks support for subsistence items only. In addition, Section XV. Delivery, Title, Orders, and Order Fill Rates, Paragraph A. Customer Deliveries, vii. states, “Products for individual customers/dining facilities must be segregated. Many of the military bases have more than one delivery point. All products shall be segregated by drop-off point. The intent is to provide expeditious off-loading and delivery to the customer.” Additionally, viii. states, “Trucks/aircraft shall also be properly registered with each activity to ensure smooth admission to the compound, while fully honoring all local security protection measures of the military activities.”

Joint Contingency Contracting System (JCCS)

51. Page 217 of the solicitation states that the JCCS Registration Information should be provided as Volume IV. Can you please confirm if Section B - Past Performance should be submitted in the same volume as Section A – Technical Factors, or if these should be separate Volumes? If these are to be submitted in one volume, can you please confirm that the JCCS Registration would then be Volume III instead of IV?

DLA Troop Support Response: Volume I includes the Completed Solicitation; Volume II includes the Non-Price Proposal, encompassing both Section A – Technical Factors I, II, and III and Section B - Past Performance; Volume III includes the Price (Business) Proposal/Pricing; Volume IV includes JCCS Registration Information. Amendment 0002 to the solicitation will correct any inconsistencies in Volumes I through IV.

52. Please confirm if completion of JCCS registration at Solicitation submission stage is sufficient, with the status of the registration being made active, following contracting office request, at contract award.

DLA Troop Support Response: Please refer to the solicitation, Attachment 1, Section IX.

Security Measures/Force Protection and Theater Support, Paragraph D. Mandatory Eligibility for Installation Access, Addendum to FAR 52.212-1 – Instructions to Offerors – Commercial Items, (e). Submission Requirement – Joint Contingency Contracting System (JCCS) Registration – Volume IV, for information related to JCCS submission requirements under this solicitation. Please also note that additional updates to information related to JCCS submission requirements have been made via Amendment 0002 to the solicitation.

53. What is the review process of prime and subcontractors for a contract/RFP evaluation?

DLA Troop Support Response: Please refer to the solicitation, Attachment 1, Section IX.

Security Measures/Force Protection and Theater Support, Paragraph D. Mandatory Eligibility for Installation Access, Addendum to FAR 52.212-1 – Instructions to Offerors – Commercial Items, (e). Submission Requirement – Joint Contingency Contracting System (JCCS) Registration – Volume IV, and Addendum to FAR 52.212-2 – Evaluation – Commercial Items, JCCS Registration Evaluations, for information related to JCCS requirements under this solicitation. Please also note that additional updates to information related to JCCS submission requirements have been made via Amendment 0002 to the solicitation.

Transportation

54. If a USTRANSCOM ocean carrier is not providing timely and quality service, will DLA allow the Prime Vendor to book containers with an alternate ocean carrier until the performance is improved and/or corrected?

DLA Troop Support Response: Please refer to the solicitation, Attachment 1, Section VI.

Transportation, Paragraph A. Best Services, for information related to container bookings.

55. USTRANSCOM has included an EPA clause in the USC09 contract for US Flag Carriers. Will DLA consider the inclusion of an economic price adjustment (EPA) should another COVID, or similar, incident occur where the USTRANSCOM ocean carriers increase the ocean transit time to an extent where stock levels must be increased far above the current solicitation requirements? Added transit times will increase stock requirements, cash carry, warehouse capacity, etc.

DLA Troop Support Response: Reference is made to the solicitation, Attachment 1, Section VI. Transportation, Paragraph A. Best Services, which states, “…The Prime Vendor is solely responsible for maintaining sufficient stock levels in its OCONUS facility(s) to cover any such delays in transport…The Prime Vendor must consider all factors impacting the supply chain when making their supply chain management decisions. The Prime Vendor is solely responsible for ensuring its supply chain is properly managed to satisfy contract requirements.”

56. The Prime Vendor will be required to ship the products from the United States within the United States Defense Transportation System (“DTS”). The Prime Vendor will use contracts established by United States Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) for those shipments. The Cost of Shipments made under DTS are going to be covered by the Government?

DLA Troop Support Response: Reference is made to the solicitation, Attachment 1, Section VI. Transportation, Paragraph A. Best Services, 1, which states, “The USTRANSCOM contracted carrier will be responsible for the transportation of the Prime Vendor’s products from the specified CONUS manufacturer or CONUS distribution facility to the Prime Vendor’s OCONUS distribution facilities.”

Pork Items

57. Please confirm if any of the 4 countries under this Solicitation fall under this provision, where it will not be possible to import/delivery/transit pork: “however, there are countries, regardless of prime vendor or US Government intercession, wherein importation of pork and other theater restricted items will not be allowed.”

DLA Troop Support Response: Please refer to the solicitation – Attachment 1, Section V.

Product Sourcing and Pricing, Paragraph F. Pork Items, for information related to the procurement and delivery of pork items.

58. Please confirm how DLA/USG would assist the Prime Vendor with import, storage and movement of pork in each country?

DLA Troop Support Response: Please refer to the solicitation – Attachment 1, Section V.

Product Sourcing and Pricing, Paragraph F. Pork Items, for information related to the procurement and delivery of pork items.

Warehouse Location/Distribution Network

59. Please confirm whether DLA would allow a minimum of two distribution platforms to be utilized instead of just Kuwait, as stipulated in the Solicitation? The use of a secondary platform would provide multiple benefits in terms of contingency and support for customers via a secondary hub in case of border closures and other unforeseen circumstances.

DLA Troop Support Response: Reference is made to the solicitation – Attachment 1, Section II. Introduction, which states, “At a minimum, the Prime Vendor is required to have one (1) Outside the Continental United States (“OCONUS”) physical warehouse location and distribution network located within Kuwait.”

60. Please could DLA confirm why it is leaving it to future Contracting Officer discretion regarding the use of a secondary OCONUS warehouse platform outside of Jordan to support this contract? This seems to provide future ambiguity and limit Offerors from providing innovative solutions.

It is requested that the Solicitation is amended to reflect the below:

• The Prime Vendor’s primary OCONUS physical warehouse should be located within

Kuwait and all subsistence support for Kuwait should originate from this warehouse.

• The Prime Vendor is free to propose additional OCONUS physical warehouse facilities and distribution platforms, outside of Kuwait, to provide support to Jordan, Iraq and Syria only and to act as a backup facility to Kuwait.

DLA Troop Support Response: Reference is made to the solicitation – Attachment 1, Section II. Introduction, which states, “At a minimum, the Prime Vendor is required to have one (1) Outside the Continental United States (“OCONUS”) physical warehouse location and distribution network located within Kuwait.”

61. Please confirm if any PV product is currently listed for delivery under one country, with the actual final destination customer being in another country i.e. is ground delivery utilized, for example within Kuwait, with then final mile delivery conducted via US military airlift? If so, please confirm which customer locations are supported with deliveries via US miliary airlift?

DLA Troop Support Response: Title of all products purchased by the Government remains with the Prime Vendor during the shipment, and title passes to the Government only when products are inspected and accepted at the final delivery point by an authorized Government receiving official.

Airlifts

62. Please could you specify if this is related to US Military airlifts or commercial airlifts. It is imperative to understand that in case of commercial airlifts, such orders cannot be easily returned to warehouse once cargo handed over to airport cargo terminal where export clearance file processed, customers must process order cancellations prior to cargo hand over to terminal.

DLA Troop Support Response: Commercial airlifts. Reference is made to the solicitation – Attachment 1, Section XV. Delivery, Title, Orders, and Order Fill Rates, Paragraph E. Order Cancellation, for order cancellation procedures/requirements.

63. Please confirm under the current contract if, within the past 12 months, all deliveries to Syria have been via air.

DLA Troop Support Response: Please refer to the solicitation – Attachment 1, Section VI.

Transportation, Paragraph J. Airlifts, 3., which outlines the requirements for airlifting into Iraq and Syria.

64. In reference to Solicitation – Attachment 1, Page 175, Section XV. Delivery, Title, Orders, and Order Fill Rates, E.4., as manhours time and materials (e.g. banding, wrapping, dry ice, etc.) have been expended to prepare loads for airlifts, suggest changing following verbiage to include "…customers may cancel orders 48 hours prior to loading of product onto aircraft."

DLA Troop Support Response: Section XV. Delivery, Title, Orders, and Order Fill Rates E.4. will be updated, via Amendment 0002 to the solicitation, to read: “In regard to airlifts, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, and Syria customers may cancel orders 48 hours prior to loading of product onto aircraft. No restocking charges will apply. Restocking charges may only be applied at the Contracting Officer’s discretion, for cancellations after the aircraft is loaded on orders over $10K.”

Order Cancellations

65. If the customer cancels the order late and products have already crossed borders and cannot be returned, what compensation will DLA provide to the PV?

DLA Troop Support Response: Reference is made to the solicitation – Attachment 1, Section Delivery, Title, Orders, and Order Fill Rates, Paragraph E. Order Cancellation, for order cancellation procedures/requirements.

Private Convoy Security (PCS)

66. Please confirm under the current contract if, within the past 12 months, private convoy security has been mandatory and present on all Iraq / Syria deliveries?

DLA Troop Support Response: Reference is made to the solicitation – Attachment 1, Section VI. Transportation, Paragraph H. Private Convoy Security in Iraq and Syria (i.e.

Security not provided by the U.S. Government), which states, “All shipments to Iraq and Syria must be accompanied by private security unless otherwise approved by the Contracting Officer based on conditions on the ground.”

67. Please provide a list of all private security firms that are approved for use within Iraq and Syria?

DLA Troop Support Response: A list of all private security firms approved for use will not be provided. Reference is made to the solicitation – Attachment 1, Section II. Introduction, which states, “Offerors are also advised to consult with the U.S. Department of State and other appropriate resources for the latest information on the political and security conditions inside Iraq and Syria.”

Fill Rate Exceptions

68. V01: Monthly Item Demand Exceeds Average Demand by >300% (OCONUS Only) – does this mean that the SPV would need to support 300 cases if demand is 100 cases?

DLA Troop Support Response: Refer to the solicitation – Attachment 1, Section V.

Product Sourcing and Pricing, Paragraph M. Surge and Sustainment for details pertaining to surge and sustainment requirements. Additionally, as it pertains to fill rate exception codes, Section J. 11. states, “The following applies to the exception code V01 Monthly item demand exceeds average demand by >300%:

1. Demand is defined as the sum of stock ordered via 850 EDI transactions into the Vendor’s system excluding documented ordering error exceptions approved by the Contracting Officer/COR (V04 & V05).

2. A vendor is required to support up to and including 300% of the AMD.”

Days of Supply (DOS)/Stock on Hand (SOH)

69. The solicitation states: “The Prime Vendor will be required to maintain a minimum of 90 days of supply on-hand for every line item of CONUS procured Prime Vendor items at all times at each OCONUS warehouse location” AND “DLA Troop Support has been advised by USTRANSCOM that the “Point to Point” delivery time to Kuwait or Jordan from the Eastern and Western U.S.