463L Cargo Pallet

Added: Dec 17, 2012 2:42 pm Modified: Feb 22, 2013 2:14 pmTrack Changes Amendment 0003 has been posted.  The proposal due date has been changed to INDEFINITE.


Amendment 0002 has been posted.  The proposal due date has been changed to 25 February 2013.


Amendment 0001 has been posted.  The proposal due date has been changed to INDEFINITE.



 The Government intends to award an Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) type contract with a two year basic and three one year options for the repair and production of the 463L cargo pallet. NSN: 1670-00-820-4896CT; P/N: MIL-DTL-27443 TYPE I; Quantity: Basic period ~ Repair max 96,000 each and Production max 28,000 each; Option periods ~ Repair max 48,000 each and Production max 9,500 each. Deliveries shall begin 30 days ARO funded order or reparable asset, whichever is later.  The Government's minimum required delivery output is 3,500 per month repair and 1,167 per month production.

Award will be made utilizing the Tradeoff source selection procedures IAW FAR 15.3 as supplemented by the DoD Source Selection Procedures referenced in DFARS 215.300 and the AFFARS Mandatory Procedures 5315.3 to make an integrated assessment for a best value award decision. The Government will make a determination of acceptability or unacceptability on offerors' small business participation volumes.  For those offerors whose proposals are determined to have an acceptable Small Business Concern Participation, tradeoffs will be made between present/past performance and cost/price.    Award will be made to the responsible offeror whose proposal conforms to all required terms and conditions, includes all the required representations and certifications, meets all the requirements set forth in the RFP and also provides the best value to the Government. 

First Article will be required for non-qualified sources. This acquisition will be processed utilizing the Insurance Policy procedures in accordance with AFMCI123-102, Chapter 10 for Mission Essential Quantities. If the low offeror is an unproven source then Insurance Policy procedures will be utilized. Authority 10 U.S.C. 2304(c)(1) as implemented by FAR 6.302-1, "Supplies (or services) required are available from only one or a limited number of responsible source(s) and no other type of supplies or services will satisfy agency requirements" may apply only to the quantity identified as the mission essential quantity in the solicitation. MEQ Repair quantity is 96,000 ea and MEQ Production quantity is 28,000 ea plus Out-year Option One Repair quantity is 48,000 ea and Out-year Option One Production quantity is 9,500 ea.

ANTICIPATED solicitation issue date is 3 Jan 2013

Added: Feb 21, 2013 3:14 pm  

Questions and Answers as of 20 February 2013

Q.  Should our pricing reflect the total price to replace only one ring assembly or one corner strap or is the intent to price the repair of one pallet with the replacement of the ring assemblies/corner straps as required (one pallet may have multiple ring assemblies or corner straps requiring repair)?   On the PWS, paragraph 4.9.1 General states that any pallet repair beyond replacement of rings and corner brackets shall require disassembly of the pallet...so this leads us to understand that it is possible to have an unserviceable pallet that only requires replacement of the ring assembly/assemblies or corner bracket(s) without replacing the entire core and PWS 4.9.5 Ring Assemblies provides guidance on when the ring assembly is required to be replaced.  If you could clarify the intent of CLINs 0017BB and 0017BC as replacement per one item (ring or corner strap) or is it repair of the entire pallet with the replacement of one or more item (rings or corner straps), it would help us on our pricing strategy for those CLINs.  As an example, let's say that an unserviceable pallet is received that requires a new core, the side rails are reusable, but requires 5 ring assemblies that also need to be replaced and 4 new corner straps (if we could not reuse due to corrosion or damage).  This pallet would be billed under CLIN 0017 AV with a quantity of one (1) for the new core with top and bottom skins, CLIN 0017BB with a quantity of five (5) for the replacement of the ring assemblies, and CLIN 0017BC with a quantity of four (4) for the replacement of the corner straps.  Would we be correct in doing so?

A.  See solicitation amendment 0002 which has been posted to clarify the CLIN structure.  For example, pallet repairs requiring disassembly, i.e., all repairs apart from a ring replacement (0004BB,0009BB,0017BB,0019BB,1001BB, 2001BB,3001BB), corner bracket replacement (0004BC,0009BC,0017BC,0019BC,1001BC,2001BC,3001BC), or inspection without repair (0004AA,0009AA,0017AA,0019AA,1001AA,2001AA,3001AA), the contractor shall include the cost for repairing or replacing any corner brackets or ring assemblies in the price of the CLIN.  For price estimation purposes, the contractor shall assume all 4 corner brackets can be reused and 2 ring assemblies per repairable pallet will need replacing.  This would apply when CLIN 0004AV,0009AV,0017AV,0019AV,1001AV,2001AV, or 3001AV, for example, is being exercised in which case all 4 rails will be reused.  When a rail is in need of replacement, a contractor may decide to reuse acceptable rings from the damaged rail or fasten new rings (5 rings for a short rail/6 for a long rail) to the newly replaced rail. 

CLINs 0004BB and 0004BC (or equivalent repair CLINs with different numbers) shall be used only in circumstances when a ring and/or corner bracket is the only repair(s) needed.  CLINs 0004BB and 0004BC shall not be used in conjunction with CLINs 0004AA through 0004BA (or equivalent repair CLINs with different CLIN numbers), as all of these repair CLINs have the price for replacement of corner brackets, ring assemblies, and all other materials and labor included.  Quotes for CLIN 0004BB shall be for replacement of a single ring assembly in the event this is the only repair needed.  Quotes for CLIN 0004BC shall be for replacement of a single corner bracket; therefore, as an example, if after inspection of a repairable pallet, 2 rings and 1 corner bracket are found to be in need of replacement (with no other repairs needed), the contractor shall bill for CLIN 0004BB twice and 0004BC once. If, however, it is found that a skin, core, rail, etc., is in need of replacement, the contractor shall disassemble the pallet and bill only for one of CLINs in 0004AB through 0004BA.

Q.  This question relates to pricing the Methods 0004AB through 0004AU.  For example, in the process of removing the skin under Method 0004AB the skin becomes damaged.  Are we permitted to change the Repair Method from 0004AB to 0004AW, when the skin is damaged to disassembly procedures?  Under the current pricing of 0004AB through 0004AU, we are required to reuse the skins.  The solicitation also states that we are prohibited from adding pricing to the Repair Method.

A.  There is no need for changing from one CLIN to another as all repairs except CLINs 0004AA, 0004BB, and 0004BC require full disassembly (see the last sentence of 4.9.1 in the PWS).  When a pallet comes in for repair, the contractor shall inspect the pallet and if the contractor finds that the pallet requires full disassembly, the contractor shall remove the skins and core from the pallet.  Typically, this causes the skins and core to be condemned, with the remaining 4 rails reusable (see 4.9.4 of the PWS for the reuse of rails). Once a contractor has inspected a pallet, they will then know how many rails may be salvaged, as well as whether the skins or core can be salvaged.  At this point, the contractor will know which CLIN to bill for and shall bill for one of the following CLINs accordingly:  0004AB through 0004BA.  If after inspection, the contractor finds that ring assembly or corner bracket replacement are the only repairs needed, the contractor shall not disassemble the pallet and shall bill for only CLINs 0004BB and/or 0004BC. If after inspection, the contractor finds no problems with the pallet, the contractor shall only bill for CLIN 0004AA.

Added: Dec 17, 2012 2:42 pm Modified: Feb 20, 2013 3:59 pmTrack Changes Amendment 0002 has been posted.  The proposal due date has been changed to 25 February 2013.


Amendment 0001 has been posted.  The proposal due date has been changed to INDEFINITE.



 The Government intends to award an Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) type contract with a two year basic and three one year options for the repair and production of the 463L cargo pallet. NSN: 1670-00-820-4896CT; P/N: MIL-DTL-27443 TYPE I; Quantity: Basic period ~ Repair max 96,000 each and Production max 28,000 each; Option periods ~ Repair max 48,000 each and Production max 9,500 each. Deliveries shall begin 30 days ARO funded order or reparable asset, whichever is later.  The Government's minimum required delivery output is 3,500 per month repair and 1,167 per month production.

Award will be made utilizing the Tradeoff source selection procedures IAW FAR 15.3 as supplemented by the DoD Source Selection Procedures referenced in DFARS 215.300 and the AFFARS Mandatory Procedures 5315.3 to make an integrated assessment for a best value award decision. The Government will make a determination of acceptability or unacceptability on offerors' small business participation volumes.  For those offerors whose proposals are determined to have an acceptable Small Business Concern Participation, tradeoffs will be made between present/past performance and cost/price.    Award will be made to the responsible offeror whose proposal conforms to all required terms and conditions, includes all the required representations and certifications, meets all the requirements set forth in the RFP and also provides the best value to the Government. 

First Article will be required for non-qualified sources. This acquisition will be processed utilizing the Insurance Policy procedures in accordance with AFMCI123-102, Chapter 10 for Mission Essential Quantities. If the low offeror is an unproven source then Insurance Policy procedures will be utilized. Authority 10 U.S.C. 2304(c)(1) as implemented by FAR 6.302-1, "Supplies (or services) required are available from only one or a limited number of responsible source(s) and no other type of supplies or services will satisfy agency requirements" may apply only to the quantity identified as the mission essential quantity in the solicitation. MEQ Repair quantity is 96,000 ea and MEQ Production quantity is 28,000 ea plus Out-year Option One Repair quantity is 48,000 ea and Out-year Option One Production quantity is 9,500 ea.

ANTICIPATED solicitation issue date is 3 Jan 2013

Added: Dec 17, 2012 2:42 pm Modified: Feb 14, 2013 4:23 pmTrack Changes Amendment 0001 has been posted.  The proposal due date has been changed to INDEFINITE.



 The Government intends to award an Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) type contract with a two year basic and three one year options for the repair and production of the 463L cargo pallet. NSN: 1670-00-820-4896CT; P/N: MIL-DTL-27443 TYPE I; Quantity: Basic period ~ Repair max 96,000 each and Production max 28,000 each; Option periods ~ Repair max 48,000 each and Production max 9,500 each. Deliveries shall begin 30 days ARO funded order or reparable asset, whichever is later.  The Government's minimum required delivery output is 3,500 per month repair and 1,167 per month production.

Award will be made utilizing the Tradeoff source selection procedures IAW FAR 15.3 as supplemented by the DoD Source Selection Procedures referenced in DFARS 215.300 and the AFFARS Mandatory Procedures 5315.3 to make an integrated assessment for a best value award decision. The Government will make a determination of acceptability or unacceptability on offerors' small business participation volumes.  For those offerors whose proposals are determined to have an acceptable Small Business Concern Participation, tradeoffs will be made between present/past performance and cost/price.    Award will be made to the responsible offeror whose proposal conforms to all required terms and conditions, includes all the required representations and certifications, meets all the requirements set forth in the RFP and also provides the best value to the Government. 

First Article will be required for non-qualified sources. This acquisition will be processed utilizing the Insurance Policy procedures in accordance with AFMCI123-102, Chapter 10 for Mission Essential Quantities. If the low offeror is an unproven source then Insurance Policy procedures will be utilized. Authority 10 U.S.C. 2304(c)(1) as implemented by FAR 6.302-1, "Supplies (or services) required are available from only one or a limited number of responsible source(s) and no other type of supplies or services will satisfy agency requirements" may apply only to the quantity identified as the mission essential quantity in the solicitation. MEQ Repair quantity is 96,000 ea and MEQ Production quantity is 28,000 ea plus Out-year Option One Repair quantity is 48,000 ea and Out-year Option One Production quantity is 9,500 ea.

ANTICIPATED solicitation issue date is 3 Jan 2013

Added: Feb 08, 2013 4:41 pm

                            Questions and Answers (February 8 2013)



Q.  The repaired pallet includes removing the skins that are riveted to the aluminum extrusion.  The repaired pallet contains a provision for installing new rivets in new holes.  What provision requirements are there for the old rivet holes in the aluminum extrusion?

A.  See note 23 on Dwg # 7031843 for instructions on this.  Old rivet holes should not be used for new rivets.

Q.  What is the warranty is on the repaired pallet?

A.  See Note 6 in NOTES TO SCHEDULE page 3

Q.  Can we make shipments ahead of schedule?

A.  Shipping instructions will be communicated by contract modification for quantities place on order.  First article can be produced ahead of schedule.

Q. Can we increase the ramp-up quantity?

A.  Maximum quantities as specified in the schedule cannot be exceeded. There may be some flexibility month to month during the ramp up period.

Q.  Due to the open technical issues related to pallet repairs, pallet new production, pallet material scheduling and pallet automated equipment pricing, we are requesting a two-week extension on the proposal due date.

A.  No extension will be granted. Typical response time is 30 days but we have allowed 45 days for this solicitation.

Q.  How many repair pallets will the contractor receive per month for repairs?

A.  This is an IDIQ contract.  Requirements will generate as needed within the minimum and maximum quantities specified in the schedule.

Q.  How many repair pallets will the contractor receive per shipping load?

A.  The typical truck load holds 100 pallets.  This could be more or less depending on the quantity available to ship or depending on the demand for repair.

Q.  What is the determination for the replacement value for each repaired pallet verse a new pallet?

A.  If an order is placed to repair a pallet, it must be repaired if it falls within the CLIN structure.  See PWS paragraph 4.6.4.

Q.  Is there a requirement for the wood panels to be bonded as one solid piece?

A.  The requirement is that the core modules are adhesively bonded to the side rails in accordance with 3.3.2 of MIL-DTL-27443F and the drawings.  It is not required that the lateral edge (2.08 +/- 0.02"; see note 10 on Dwg # 7031843) of a balsa module be bonded to the lateral edges of other balsa modules.

Q.  We have a request for clarification on the Attachment 5 for the Solicitation FA8519-12-R-00516.  We have submitted the forms to be processed and delivered as requested in the solicitation.  Is the Attachment 5 required for the critical subcontractor when the text of the information relates to contracting as opposed to a supplier.  Please clarify as the context is unclear... as suppliers are raising questions on how to complete the questionnaire.

A.  Attachment 5 is present/past performance for the contractor, any joint venture partner, and/or any critical subcontractors.  Please refer to the definition of a critical subcontractor found in Section M, page 136, of the solicitation.

Q. Mil-DTL-27443, Page 18, Par. 4.5.9, section d. ....Any gap between the core modules that exceeds 0.020 inches in width and 4 inches in length (along) the bond line) shall be cause for rejection.  Page 6, Par. 3.3.2 ...Wedges may be inserted between the core modules and no part of the core shall be movable (see 4.5.9 d., 4.5.11).  One paragraph requires the modules to be adhesively bonded, while the other paragraph provides a different explanation.  Please clarify which paragraph is correct.

A.  The 0.020 inches should only refer to the gap between the core and rails.  It's not feasible to try to get gaps between modules to 0.020", and this is impossible as we allow the use of wedges (see 3.3.2) to remove gaps between the rail and core.  Modules do not need to be bonded to themselves, only to the side rails and skins.

Q.  In reference to question 22 what is the permissable gap for filling with adhesive?

A.  The gaps between core modules should be minimized to pass the requirement in 4.5.9, Section c, of MIL-DTL-27443. 

Q.  What guidelines are required for determining acceptable levels of adhesive?  This impacts all pallets as adhesive colors vary and the acceptance level for rework will require complete disassembly of all pallets regardless of condition and reassembly.  Please clarify the parameters for discoloration of adhesive as it relates to levels acceptance and cause for rejection?  

A.  There is no requirement for levels of discoloration of adhesive.  Per MIL-DTL-27443F paragraph 3.2.3.1 Adhesive dye, a red dye shall be added to the adhesive (see 3.2.3) to identify the pallet as one manufactured with a thermally cured adhesive (see 4.5.1).  The adhesive red dye is a quick view to determine if the thermally cured adhesive has been used in the manufacturing process. There are a number of test to identify the adhesive has been applied and cured appropriately.  MIL-DTL-27443F paragraph 4.4.3 Adhesive tests.

Q. What proposal pricing provisions are available for Outyear Pricing Options 1, Options 2 and Options 3?

A.  This is a Firm Fixed Price effort.  The total evaluated price will be calculated as stated in the solicitation.

Q.  What types of material escalation pricing provisions are available? What basis will be used for Material Escalations?

A.  CLINs are Firm Fixed Price. Please take any material escalation into consideration in your unit prices.

Q.  We are looking at bidding this program but don't see where the proposal requires any technical volume. What will the evaluation criteria be for standing vs. future capability of being able to produce first article units in the timeframe required?

A.  Correct, no technical volume is required.  See RFP for additional information on how present/past performance is evaluated.

Q.  For further clarification of Question 11 previously posted on January 24, 2013, regarding equipment: In the event that long lead time capital equipment is required to manufacture or repair product, which may not arrive until after first delivery requirements, is it allowable to utilize prototype equipment for First Article?

A.  First article items need to be manufactured under the same conditions as production items to ensure the process produces an item consistent with what has previously been approved during first article testing.  Otherwise, the equipment used to manufacture the production articles may induce variables that would produce a pallet differently from the approved first articles. Based on responses from our Requests for Information (RFI), sufficient time has been allotted for first article approval (375 days after receipt of order; see CDRL A008).

Q.  Section I of the solicitation contains reference to the Service Contract Act (SCA). Is there a current wage determination available for all labor categories required? Does this contract allow for increases based on SCA and Health & Welfare (H&W) increases throughout the life of the contract?

A. Wage determination per contract award is applicable to the county in which the work will be performed.  In regard to wages throughout the life of the contract:

 Per 52.222-41(c)(2)(iv)(B) In the case of a contract modification, an exercise of an option, or extension of an existing contract, or in any other case where a Contractor succeeds a contract under which the classification in question was previously conformed pursuant to paragraph (c) of this clause, a new conformed wage rate and fringe benefits may be assigned to the conformed classification by indexing (i.e., adjusting) the previous conformed rate and fringe benefits by an amount equal to the average (mean) percentage increase (or decrease, where appropriate) between the wages and fringe benefits specified for all classifications to be used on the contract which are listed in the current wage determination, and those specified for the corresponding classifications in the previously applicable wage determination. Where conforming actions are accomplished in accordance with this paragraph prior to the performance of contract work by the unlisted class of employees, the Contractor shall advise the Contracting Officer of the action taken but the other procedures in subdivision (c)(2)(ii) of this clause need not be followed.

Q.  Can we use manual application for the adhesive?

A.  Yes

Added: Jan 24, 2013 1:31 pm  

Solicitation FA8519-12-R-00516

Question and Answers (24 January 2013)

 An offer was extended during the Market Research/RFI portion of the acquisition to examine the 463L Cargo Pallet BUT is not available during the official source selection process, as the PCO must be central point of information exchange between the Government and offerors.

1. Do you have drawings and or samples of the pallets available?

All documents, including the technical drawings, are available on FedBizOps.  Everything that is associated with the 463L Cargo Pallet solicitation has been posted as Distribution A, meaning that it is approved for public release with no restrictions.  If you still have a problem with any of the links, I would suggest contacting the FedBizOps help desk. 

2. Would Plastic Pallets be an option for this project?

No; Plastic pallets are not in accordance with the drawings included with the posted solicitation and would not be acceptable for this effort. Alternative materials are being researched and could possibly be integrated into future requirements for pallets; however, if you are interested in proposing on the current effort, please see the requirements of solicitation FA8519-12-R-00516, including all attachments.

3.  The released solicitation # FA8519-12-R-00516 for the 463L Cargo Pallet is "unrestricted".  We understood from the initial market survey, that the acquisition plan was to be considered for a total small business set-aside. Our entire proposal program was developed utilizing a total small business approach, and this change now impacts that approach.  Please help us understand the reason for the change from a total small business set-aside to an unrestricted acquisition.

Our Initial Market Surveys were conducted during the fact-finding stage of the acquisition. During this planning stage the requirement was still being formulated. You will also notice that our requirement changed from repair only to production and repair during this time.   Throughout this whole process we emphasized an acquisition strategy had not been approved and that the official solicitation documents, when posted, would outline the approved acquisition strategy.  There was not a change in determination from a Small Business Set-Aside to an Unrestricted acquisition. After conducting Market Research, the Government decided that an unrestricted acquisition is in its best interest. It is always our goal to maximize opportunities for Small Businesses and this is something that is being taken into consideration for future pallet designs and acquisitions; however, for solicitation FA8519-12-R-00516, which utilizes the current pallet design, an unrestricted acquisition was determined to be the best approach.

4. We are requesting clarification on the specification MIL_DTL-27443, Page 4, 3.2.3 Adhesive.  The adhesive used for bonding the core to the skin and the rails shall be vinyl phenolic FM-47 liquid adhesive in accordance with MMM-A-132, Type I, Class 3.  The adhesive to be used to bond the balsa shall be a Urea-Resin type in accordance with ASTM D4690 and the following requirements.  The FM-47 is a brand name product for a specific supplier.  The QPD (QPL) lists additional sources that meet the MMM-A-132, Type I, Class 3 specification for the Adhesive.  Are we non-compliant with the specification if we offer another suppliers product that complies with the MMM-A-132, Tpe I, Class 3 requirements? 

The spec states that FM-47 liquid adhesive in accordance with MMM-A-132, Type I, Class 3 shall be used.  There are 5 QPLs that fall under this classification Class 3 of this spec.  MMM-A-132, Type I, Class 3, Form P, Group 4 would be the one that is applicable for pallet production.  Any contractor bidding on the pallets should be using only FM-47 liquid adhesive, which would be Form P, Group 4 under MMM-A-132 Type I, Class 3 QPL.  FM-47 is the only adhesive that is listed on this QPL. 

5.  We are requesting clarification that removes the paint requirements and replaces it with an adhesive on the pallet based on the Engineering Order (WRAFB - AF IMT 3925, 20020819, V1) Notes 12 and 16: replace "MIL-PRF-2615" with "SAE AMS-P-38336." No Vendors Listed on the associated QPL for MIL-PRF-26915.  (See Attachments)  This Engineering Order stipulates the paint shall be replaced with an adhesive.

The adhesive IAW SAE AMS-P-38336 has zinc in it and prevents corrosion of the rivets holding the rings and corner brackets in place.  FM-47, which is for bonding metal to metal to metal to wood for aerospace applications, would not be suitable for this application, as it's not a corrosion inhibitor because it does not have zinc to act as a sacrificial anode.

That's why there are two different adhesives being used; one is coating a corrosive material and the other is for bonding aluminum which doesn't warrant a corrosion inhibitor.

6.  Repair method description clarification for the Pallet Repair: CLIN 0004AB thru 0004AG "Reuse Top Skin & Bottom Skin. New Complete Core...".  The CLIN 0004AH thru 0004BA "Reuse Bottom Skin. New Top Skin and Complete Core..."  Clarification is being requested on the description for the New Top Skin and Complete Core.  Please explain the difference between the two descriptions.  The first description states a "New Core", whereas the second description states a Complete Core".  What's the difference between the two descriptions?  Does all Repair Pallets require New Complete Cores, as the wording the second description is unclear?  This description is repeated in the applicable CLINs for the Repair of Pallets.   

As clarification:

CLIN 0004AA - Repair Method #1 - General Inspection without Repair

CLIN 0004AB - 0004AG - Repair Method #2 - meaning the top and bottom skins are reusable and the core is replaced with new.

CLIN 0004AH - 0004AN - Repair Method #3 - meaning the bottom skin is reusable and the top skin and core are replaced with new.  Repair method #3 is NEW top skin and NEW complete core.

CLIN 0004AP - 0004AU - Repair Method #4 - meaning the top skin is reusable and the bottom skin and core are replaced with new.  Repair method #4 is NEW Bottom skin and NEW complete core.

CLIN 0004AV - 0004BA - Repair Method #5 - meaning the top and bottom skin and core are replaced with new.  Repair method #5 is NEW Bottom skin, NEW top skin and NEW complete core.

7.  Selected Items reference "Associated Document(s) FD20601200512 - Request a copy of document. Items 0010 & 0017 Associated Document(s) FD20601200522, FD20601200516 referenced and drawings needed for NSN 1670-00-820-4896.

 Associated Document(s) FD20601200516 and FD20601200522 are internal documents that are used to generate a requirement and are not releasable.  All documents, including the technical drawings, are available on FedBizOps.  Everything that is associated with the 463L Cargo Pallet solicitation has been posted as Distribution A, meaning that it is approved for public release with no restrictions.

8.  The PWS Specification, Page 11, Paragraph 4.10.2.1 First Article Test Procedures, CDRL reference A007 does not reflect the First Article reporting, see attachment item 3.  Please clarify the appropriate CDRL reference for First Article Inspection. 

CDRL A007 posted in FedBizOps for subject solicitation is titled Test Procedure and subtitled First Article Test Procedure as referenced in PWS paragraph 4.10.2.1.  CDRL A011 is Mishap Notification and Reporting.

9.  The Questions and Answers item 3. References a "Section L-409 First Article Applicability and/or Conditions of Waiver" will state the First Article testing is a requirement for this contract.  What are the conditions for the FA Examination Testing? Are we required to have all equipment in-place for the FA Testing, since the only assurance of the Government is to acquire the FA Article Test Units?  Please explain, the methodology for the requirements and what is required to satisfy the FA acceptance?     

In reference to First Article conditions for waiver, please see page 125 of solicitation "Provision L-409 First Article Applicability and/or Conditions for Waiver".

 First Article testing and requirements are located in clauses 52.209-3, 52.209-3 Alternate I, 52.209-4, and 52.209-4 Alternate I.

10.  Who pays for the transportation costs from the Inspection/Acceptance back to the manufacture of the 5 Repaired Pallets? Please clarify transportation responsibility.

PWS 4.10.2.2 First Article Testing of the Pallets.  After Government approval of the first article test procedures, the Contractor shall schedule the testing to be conducted. If shipping is required to move the item(s) to and from a test site away from the Contractor's facility, the Contractor shall be responsible for all costs associated with the shipment. The Contractor shall notify the Government of the date, time, and location of first article testing 30 calendar days prior to the start of testing. The test shall be witnessed by one or more Government representatives.

11.  Are we required to have all equipment in-place for the FA Testing?

There is contractor testing and Government testing as specified in the solicitation.  All deliverables and dates must be met as spelled out in the solicitation schedule and solicitation clauses.

Added: Jan 04, 2013 2:14 pm 463L Cargo Pallet solicitation is now posted with a response date of 19 Feb 2013.

Questions must be submitted in writing to Mandy.Mathews@robins.af.mil or Donna.Pallini@robins.af.mil

Added: Dec 17, 2012 2:42 pm  The Government intends to award an Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) type contract with a two year basic and three one year options for the repair and production of the 463L cargo pallet. NSN: 1670-00-820-4896CT; P/N: MIL-DTL-27443 TYPE I; Quantity: Basic period ~ Repair max 96,000 each and Production max 28,000 each; Option periods ~ Repair max 48,000 each and Production max 9,500 each. Deliveries shall begin 30 days ARO funded order or reparable asset, whichever is later.  The Government's minimum required delivery output is 3,500 per month repair and 1,167 per month production.

Award will be made utilizing the Tradeoff source selection procedures IAW FAR 15.3 as supplemented by the DoD Source Selection Procedures referenced in DFARS 215.300 and the AFFARS Mandatory Procedures 5315.3 to make an integrated assessment for a best value award decision. The Government will make a determination of acceptability or unacceptability on offerors' small business participation volumes.  For those offerors whose proposals are determined to have an acceptable Small Business Concern Participation, tradeoffs will be made between present/past performance and cost/price.    Award will be made to the responsible offeror whose proposal conforms to all required terms and conditions, includes all the required representations and certifications, meets all the requirements set forth in the RFP and also provides the best value to the Government. 

First Article will be required for non-qualified sources. This acquisition will be processed utilizing the Insurance Policy procedures in accordance with AFMCI123-102, Chapter 10 for Mission Essential Quantities. If the low offeror is an unproven source then Insurance Policy procedures will be utilized. Authority 10 U.S.C. 2304(c)(1) as implemented by FAR 6.302-1, "Supplies (or services) required are available from only one or a limited number of responsible source(s) and no other type of supplies or services will satisfy agency requirements" may apply only to the quantity identified as the mission essential quantity in the solicitation. MEQ Repair quantity is 96,000 ea and MEQ Production quantity is 28,000 ea plus Out-year Option One Repair quantity is 48,000 ea and Out-year Option One Production quantity is 9,500 ea.

ANTICIPATED solicitation issue date is 3 Jan 2013