DOTD Buy Back - Large Excavator

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, through the Office of State Procurement, is requesting bids for 11 new large excavators (1.0 cubic yard capacity, 20–24 metric ton steel tracked units) under a buy-back contract, with bids due November 10, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. CST. A Louisiana product preference applies under state law to products meeting Louisiana product criteria, further-processed Louisiana products, and Louisiana-manufactured or assembled materials; a preference for United States-manufactured products also applies.

The specification requires diesel-powered, current-production models meeting DOTD Equipment Specification 810-000A, Rev. 08/26/2026, with 153 HP net engine, 110 GPM hydraulic capacity, full 360-degree swing with positive lock brake, steel triple semi-grouser track shoes with independent brakes, and fully enclosed ROPS/FOPS-certified cab with air conditioning, heating, and adjustable suspension seat. Representative models for equivalency evaluation include Caterpillar 320, John Deere 210, Case CX210, and Volvo EC220. Each unit must be equipped with two 1.0 cubic yard buckets (42–48" and 60" widths), folding mechanical thumb, work lights, and fire extinguisher. Bidders must be from manufacturers with at least one authorized Louisiana dealer capable of providing parts, service, and warranty support. Delivery to DOTD Equipment Acquisitions at Building 42F, 7686 Tom Drive, Baton Rouge, is required by February 28, 2027; all pricing must be F.O.B. Destination prepaid and include transportation, inside delivery, assembly, and debris removal.

The contract runs 12 months and one day from award, with an option to extend for two additional 12-month and one-day periods at the same prices, not to exceed 36 months and three days total. Award goes to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder based on total one-year cost, calculated using an interest rate of 9.94% (Federal Prime Rate 6.75% plus annualized inflation 3.19% as of July 1st). Each bidder must provide a guaranteed buy-back repurchase price one year and one day after delivery; depreciation or appreciation is calculated by subtracting this buy-back price from the purchase price. Delivery timeframe may be used as an award factor. Questions are due October 27, 2026; the State responds by November 3. Bidders must register with LaGov, submit bids online through the vendor portal, and provide W-9 (if newly registered). All bids of $25,000 or more require GSA non-debarment certification; corporations and LLCs must be registered in good standing with Louisiana Secretary of State. Successful vendors must maintain comprehensive insurance (Workers Compensation, Commercial General Liability minimum $1 million per occurrence / $2 million aggregate, Automobile Liability minimum $1 million combined single limit) and retain records for five years after final payment.