Auto Filters; Air, Oil, Gas etc

The State of Maine, Division of Purchases, is soliciting an annual contract for automotive air, oil, fuel, and gas filters to support all state using agencies, with bids due April 21, 2010. In-state bidders and those offering commodities produced or manufactured in Maine receive preference in tie-bid situations.

The scope covers automotive filters across multiple vehicle and equipment types to supply approximately 100 Maine Department of Transportation facilities spanning from York to Madawaska, as well as other state agencies. Bidders are not required to match the state's current vendor part numbers but must provide comprehensive catalog coverage of similar products and maintain updated spreadsheets as new items become available. All filters must meet first-grade material and workmanship standards in accordance with current federal specifications and original equipment manufacturer requirements.

Delivery is required within seven days of order receipt, FOB destination, with all transportation charges prepaid by the contractor. Pricing must remain firm throughout the entire contract period with no adjustments permitted. The state requires acceptance of the Maine Procurement Card as a payment method with no surcharges allowed; bidders unwilling to accept this condition will be rejected. Vendors must indicate willingness to extend contract pricing to Maine political subdivisions and school districts.

The initial contract term is one year from award date, with the state reserving the right to extend up to two additional years with contractor consent. The state may cancel with 30 days' written notice or immediately if the contractor fails to conform to contract terms. Bids must be submitted electronically to the Division of Purchases, Room 119, 9 State House Station, State Office Building, Augusta. The division reserves the right to reject any or all bids and to increase or decrease quantities by up to 10 percent. Contractors must comply with the Maine Chemical Substance Identification Law and provide current material safety data sheets for hazardous chemicals.