Contract for 1 year on Automotive Batteries

The State of Maine, Division of Purchases, is requesting bids on a one-year contract for automotive batteries serving all state agencies, with quotes due June 28, 2011. The approximate contract value is $39,083, distributed across three state fleet divisions: DAFS Central Fleet ($7,253.51), MDOT Fleet ($21,502.31), and Public Safety Fleet ($10,327.18).

The scope covers heavy-duty, deep-cycle, and marine batteries for passenger vehicles, specialized fleet equipment, and forklifts. The vendor must submit manufacturers' spec sheets and provide a full product-line spreadsheet. Batteries must carry a minimum one-year full replacement warranty with prorated coverage thereafter. Delivery must occur within seven days of order receipt, with pricing submitted on a net F.O.B. destination basis with all transportation prepaid by the contractor.

For MDOT, which operates 95 fleet stocking locations across Maine, the vendor must provide daily delivery to Augusta Fleet Service and state facilities within 25 miles of the contractor's location, pick up all used battery cores regardless of quantity parity, and service all locations within each of five designated MDOT regions (Scarborough, Augusta, Dixfield, Bangor, Caribou). The vendor must maintain full-time field service personnel, supply only fresh stock, allow full credit for usable obsolete stock during the contract period, and extend the same discounted pricing to unspecified batteries added during the term. Pricing must be submitted by region on a supplied spreadsheet.

In case of tied bids, preference is given to in-state bidders or those offering commodities produced or manufactured in Maine. The State accepts the state procurement card with no surcharges allowed. The Division of Purchases reserves the right to cancel with thirty days' written notice and may extend the contract beyond one year with negotiated terms. Prices must remain firm throughout the contract period.