Backhoe loaders

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) Contracts and Procurement Department is seeking to procure two backhoe loaders through an Invitation for Bids (IFB) with Requisition Number 696-5-IW214643. The solicitation specifically requires backhoe loaders meeting precise technical specifications, including engine requirements of 92-103 HP that comply with EPA Final Tier 4/EU Stage IV emissions standards. Acceptable models include the John Deere 310E and Caterpillar 420XE, or TDCJ-approved equivalents with specific hydraulic system, transmission, and performance characteristics. The bid allows electronic submission preferred via bids@tdcj.texas.gov, with a 10 MB attachment limit and recommendation for Microsoft Office document formats. The bid opening is scheduled for May 29, 2025, at 3:00 P.M., with bid prices required to remain firm for 30 days and delivered F.O.B. destination with prepaid freight. Evaluation criteria will include price, performance history, and overall best value to the state, with the TDCJ reserving the right to make awards based on these factors.

The procurement includes a Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Subcontracting Plan with a 21.1% HUB goal for commodities contracts, requiring prime contractors to demonstrate good faith efforts in subcontracting with Texas certified HUB vendors. Vendors must complete comprehensive documentation, including HUB Subcontracting Opportunity Notification Forms and Good Faith Effort attachments, with options to either subcontract exclusively with Texas certified HUB vendors or prove substantial efforts to include them in the subcontracting process. The solicitation involves multiple compliance certifications, including verifications related to debarment, antitrust laws, conflict of interest, and state contracting requirements. While specific award value is not explicitly stated, the procurement is for two backhoe loaders, suggesting a potentially significant equipment investment. The state provides an extensive list of trade organizations and development centers that can be notified about subcontracting opportunities, covering various minority and women-owned business groups across Texas to promote diverse vendor participation.