Binding machine 4 yr lease w/ installation and service costs

The State of Maine Division of Purchases is soliciting sealed bids for a four-year binding machine lease with installation and service costs, due May 13, 2010. A preference for in-state bidders applies when price, quality, and availability are equal.

The scope encompasses a binding machine lease agreement with full service provisions integrated into the lease terms, including initial installation and continuous maintenance throughout the four-year period. Bidders must submit separate unit prices for each item on prescribed forms, with all prices delivered to destination and inclusive of discounts. Bids must be received by the Division of Purchases, Room 119, 9 State House Station, State Office Building, Augusta, Maine, by the closing date and time; late submissions will not be considered.

Award will be made to the lowest responsible bidder based on best value to the State, considering quality, conformity with specifications, delivery date, and ultimate cost. The Division reserves the right to reject any or all bids, waive any formality or technicality, and increase or decrease quantities by up to ten percent. Contractors remain liable for deviations from specifications unless caused by strikes, fires, acts of God, or causes beyond reasonable control.

All transportation charges must be prepaid by the contractor unless otherwise specified. The State is exempt from Federal and Maine State Sales and Use Taxes; bidders should quote prices net of these taxes. Bidders must provide current material safety data sheets for any hazardous chemicals in accordance with Maine's Chemical Substance Identification Law. Sealed bids and electronic responses are opened electronically, with tabulations available for public inspection following contract award.