R3 Tree Coolers

The Department of Agriculture Forest Service R3-Southwestern Region seeks nine new 40-foot refrigerated ISO containers with 220-volt, 50-amp transformers for tree seedling storage across seven National Forests in Arizona and New Mexico, with quotations due May 20. This is a Total Small Business Set-Aside under NAICS 332439 (Other Metal Container Manufacturing) with a small business size standard of 600 employees.

Place of performance includes Carson, Gila, Coconino, Tonto, Kaibab, Santa Fe, and Coronado National Forests in Arizona and New Mexico, with administrative coordination through Tonto National Forest in Phoenix, Arizona. Each container must measure 40 feet by 8 feet by 9 feet 6 inches and maintain temperatures between 35–45 degrees Fahrenheit. The contractor must provide all blocking, dunnage, leveling, and offloading services at each location. Delivery must occur within 60–90 days from receipt of order under FOB destination terms. The performance period is 180 days from project start.

Prior to ordering and delivery, the contractor must submit container and transformer specifications, a delivery schedule for all nine units, a logistics plan addressing any required special permits and transportation methods, and a contact list for the primary project coordinator. A virtual project meeting will occur before deliveries commence. The Contracting Officer's Representative is Lonny Rollins, P.E. (Lonny.rollins@usda.gov). The contracting officer is Paul M. Wood, and the point of contact is Mary Bosch (802-345-9284).

Award will be made to the offeror representing best value based on lowest price technically acceptable approach, evaluated on equipment specifications, delivery schedule compliance, past performance, and ability to meet Statement of Work requirements. Quotations must remain firm for 90 calendar days. Submit quotations to PPS.Proposals@usda.gov.