ARS Reflectance Spectrophotometer-Brand Name

The USDA Agricultural Research Service, through the Department of Agriculture Forest Service, seeks a Reflectance Spectrophotometer on a total small business set-aside with proposals due September 14, 2026. The procurement is a combined synopsis/solicitation under FAR Part 12 for commercial items, and no separate written solicitation will be issued.

Place of performance is Raleigh, North Carolina. The spectrophotometer must include a minimum two-year Performance Assurance Program and on-site instrument training on a brand-name-or-equal basis. Delivery is required within 45 days after receipt of order, with early deliveries accepted. Offerors providing "or equal" items must submit descriptive literature, illustrations, drawings, or web references demonstrating that quoted items meet all salient characteristics. All items must demonstrate clear traceability to the Original Equipment Manufacturer through documented and auditable paper trail, accompanied by a Certificate of Conformance per FAR clause 52.246-15 including manufacturer certification. Only new approved parts are acceptable; approved alternate parts satisfying all form, fit, and function requirements may be authorized.

Award will be made to the highest technically rated offeror whose proposed price is determined fair and reasonable in accordance with FAR 12.204. Offerors must complete Attachment C04a_BOM with all line items filled in to be considered for award. The NAICS code is 334516, Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing, and the PSC is 6640, Laboratory Equipment and Supplies.

The procurement incorporates FAR and AGAR clauses on small business set-asides, Buy American requirements, anti-discrimination and DEI compliance, child labor certification, and prohibitions on contracting with inverted domestic corporations.