Free Matter for the Blind Cards (Pin-Fed Label Cards)

The State of Maine Division of Purchases is requesting quotations for free matter for the blind cards (pin-fed label cards), with quotations due January 27, 2014. All quotations must be submitted electronically through the State of Maine's Vendor Self Service (VSS) platform by 2:00 p.m. local time on the due date.

The scope consists of pin-fed label cards for free matter for the blind applications. Bidders must specify the percentage of post-consumer recycled fiber content and certified virgin fiber content for each proposed product, along with proof of the supplier's chain of custody certification from an eligible certification organization (American Tree Farm System, Forest Stewardship Council, Master Logger Certification Program, Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification affiliates, or Sustainable Forestry Initiative). Bidders must also identify the certification labels applied by vendors or manufacturers to each product.

Award is on the basis of lowest priced quotation conforming to specifications, or on a combination of factors including quality, conformity with specifications, delivery time and destination, and ultimate cost to the State, with price receiving a minimum of 25 percent weight. The State of Maine offers a recycled content preference of up to 10% to bids containing a minimum of 30% post-consumer recycled material content that fall within 10% of the lowest compliant bid. Additionally, the State may pay a price premium of up to 4% above the lowest bid to procure products with 100% post-consumer recycled or certified virgin fiber content. Where no bids meet the 100% threshold, preference is awarded to products with the highest percentage of recycled or certified fiber content, provided such products do not exceed 4% above the lowest submitted bid price. The contract is subject to a three-year maximum term with potential extension at the Purchasing Director's discretion, and contract overruns are capped at 10% of contract value. Payment terms are net 30 days from receipt of a correct invoice, FOB Destination, with transportation costs prepaid by the successful bidder. The State is exempt from all sales, use, and property taxes.