Four Refrigerated Trailers for DNR

The State of Minnesota, specifically the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), is seeking proposals for four refrigerated trailers through a formal Request for Proposal (RFP) posted on March 6, 2025, with responses due by March 27, 2025, at 3:00 PM CST. The procurement requires two 16-foot and two 8-foot refrigerated trailers designed for storing seedlings, to be delivered to the DNR Region 1 Headquarters in Bemidji, Minnesota by July 1, 2025. The successful contractor must provide comprehensive customer service, order execution, and contract management support. The evaluation methodology will utilize a 1,000-point scoring system, with 100 points allocated to acceptance of state terms and 900 points dedicated to cost details. Prospective bidders must submit any questions in writing to jennifer.bartle@state.mn.us no later than March 18, 2025, and all responses must be submitted through the SWIFT Supplier Portal. The contract term is anticipated to run from May 1, 2025, to April 30, 2026, with the state planning to complete evaluation and selection by April 30, 2025.

The state procurement process includes significant emphasis on diversity and inclusion, with preference points available for businesses owned by minority groups, women, veterans, and individuals with substantial physical disabilities. Targeted groups can earn up to 120 additional preference points in the evaluation process. The solicitation encourages participation from Minnesota-based small businesses and those located in economically disadvantaged counties. While no specific incumbent vendor is mentioned, the RFP indicates that the contract is not exclusive, meaning the state is not guaranteed a minimum purchase quantity. The pricing will be firm for the initial contract term, with potential for a 12-month extension. Though no explicit budget range is provided in the documents, the price schedule requires vendors to complete detailed pricing information for the two trailer models (Polar King PKM6X16 and Polar King PKM68 6X8). The trailers must meet specific technical requirements, including federal and state motor carrier standards, and come with manufacturer warranties covering various components for periods ranging from one to five years.