Gooseneck Trailer for Ellis Unit

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) Contracts and Procurement Department is soliciting bids for a gooseneck cargo trailer through Invitation for Bids (IFB) number IW209676. The specific procurement is for a Sundowner model CO-0311 trailer or agency-approved equivalent, with precise specifications including 6'9" width, 7' height, and 12'-40" length, constructed entirely of aluminum with aluminum plank flooring. The trailer must feature horizontal e-track, electric brakes, LED lighting, and two 16"x235 spare tires, and will be delivered to the TDCJ Ellis Unit Bus Repair facility in Huntsville, TX. Key deadlines include March 4, 2025 at 11:00 AM for submitting questions, with answers posted by March 6, 2025, and a bid opening scheduled for March 13, 2025 at 11:00 AM. Bids can be submitted electronically to bids@tdcj.texas.gov or as a hard copy to TDCJ's Contracts and Procurement office. Evaluation criteria will include price, bidder's previous performance, quality, conformance to specifications, and other best value factors.

The solicitation does not explicitly mention specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. Bidders must possess both a Texas Identification Number System (T.I.N.S.) number and Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) prior to contract award. The contract includes a one-year comprehensive warranty covering parts, labor, travel, shipping, and related costs, with strict security requirements for deliveries to TDCJ facilities, including mandatory escort protocols and contraband restrictions. No remote connectivity to machine diagnostics is permitted inside correctional facilities. The procurement includes F.O.B. destination prepaid and allowed pricing terms, with bid prices required to remain firm for 30 days from the bid opening date. While a specific award value is not detailed, the document indicates that TDCJ reserves the right to make awards based on low line item bids, low total of line items, or any combination that best serves the state's interests.