1 year contract for Hydraulic Hose and Stems

The State of Maine Division of Purchases is requesting bids for a one-year contract to supply hydraulic hose and stems to state agencies, with bids due December 20, 2010. The Maine Department of Transportation (MDOT) is the primary user. In case of tied bids, bidders offering commodities produced or manufactured in Maine, or Maine-based service providers, receive preference.

The scope covers standard hydraulic hose and stem products with specified sizes, pressure ratings, and configurations detailed in an attached spreadsheet. The contractor must supply approximately 11 catalogs to state agencies and maintain sufficient inventory to meet daily requirements across approximately 100 MDOT facilities distributed throughout Maine from York to Madawaska. The state currently uses Parker Manufacturing products but will consider alternative manufacturers; if a non-Parker product is awarded, the vendor must replace all crimping machines statewide at no additional cost. The contractor must provide full-time field service personnel, fresh stock only (no surplus or obsolete materials), and maintain pricing firm throughout the contract period.

The estimated contract value is $45,000 over the one-year term, though actual purchases may vary based on agency demand. All transportation charges are F.O.B. Destination and must be prepaid by the contractor. Pricing must exclude Federal and Maine State sales and use taxes. Cash discounts offered with terms of 20 days or more will be considered in bid evaluation.

Awards will be made to the lowest responsible bidder offering the best value to the State, with consideration given to quality, conformity with specifications, delivery dates, and ultimate cost. The State reserves the right to reject any or all bids and adjust quantities by up to 10 percent. The contractor must accept the State of Maine Procurement Card as payment without surcharge, submit invoices electronically in PDF format when possible, and extend quoted pricing to political subdivisions and school districts in Maine. The State may cancel the contract with thirty days' written notice or immediately if terms are not met, and may extend the contract period beyond one year with contractor consent.