Brass Zipper

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) Contracts and Procurement Department has issued an Invitation for Bids (IFB No. IW205016) for the procurement of 30,000 units of 24" No. 5 brass zippers to be delivered to the Hughes Unit Garment Factory in Gatesville, TX. The specified zippers must meet precise technical requirements, including a separating/left hand insert, single auto-locking slider, die cast zinc with golden brass finish, black color, and 9/16" wide tape, matching the YKK manufacturer part number RGOL-56 DA8 G 9/16 MONO. Bid submissions are due on December 30, 2024, at 3:00 PM, with all questions required to be submitted by December 18, 2024, at 12:00 PM (CST). Vendors can submit bids electronically to BIDS@TDCJ.TEXAS.GOV with a 10 MB attachment limit per email or via hard copy to the TDCJ office in Huntsville, TX. Pricing must be F.O.B. destination with all freight charges included in the unit cost, and vendors must comply with strict security protocols for delivering to correctional facilities, including mandatory security escorts and vehicle searches.

The solicitation does not specify any specific set-aside designations or preferences for disadvantaged enterprises. The bid allows for equal brands and manufacturer substitutes according to the Terms and Conditions Section 2.1, providing flexibility for potential vendors. No incumbent vendor information is disclosed in the documentation, and there are no explicit requirements for integration with existing infrastructure or technology. Potential bidders are required to proactively submit their contact information to receive potential amendments to the solicitation, which will be posted on the Electronic State Business Daily. While no specific award value or budget range is explicitly stated, the procurement involves 30,000 zipper units, suggesting a substantial contract opportunity. Vendors must carefully follow the communication requirements and security protocols, as failure to do so could result in bid disqualification or inability to complete the contract.