IFB_HHS0016242_Courier Services for Laboratory Specimen

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) has issued an Invitation for Bids (IFB) for courier services to transport laboratory specimens from San Antonio State Hospital to the Regional Clinical Laboratory at Austin State Hospital. The contract, designated as IFB_HHS0016242, seeks a qualified vendor to provide daily pickup and delivery of 2-5 packages, with a strict two-hour delivery timeframe from pickup. Bidders must demonstrate at least five years of relevant experience in laboratory specimen transportation, provide fully trained personnel, and maintain specimen integrity throughout transit. The contract period will run from September 1, 2025, to August 31, 2026, with options for two one-year renewals. Key qualifications include comprehensive background checks for personnel, appropriate insurance coverage, and adherence to performance standards. The bid response is due on August 6, 2025, at 10:30 AM Central Time, with an anticipated contract start date of September 1, 2025. Evaluation will focus on the bidder's operational capabilities, reference qualifications, and ability to meet the specific logistical requirements of laboratory specimen transportation.

The procurement includes a Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Subcontracting Plan with a 26.0% participation goal for this "All-Other Services Contract" classification. Respondents must provide detailed documentation demonstrating their approach to including Texas-certified HUB vendors in their subcontracting strategy. The historical spend for similar services is $99,999.00 for the previous two-year period, indicating a moderate-value contract opportunity. Bidders must complete multiple exhibits, including Solicitation Affirmations, which require certifications on various legal and operational compliance matters such as E-Verify usage, cybersecurity training, and prohibitions on boycotting specific entities. The contract includes provisions for firm, fixed pricing with potential Consumer Price Index adjustments. Potential vendors must also submit comprehensive company information, including years in business, employee count, operational capabilities, and three verifiable references for similar contracts completed within the past five years. Non-compliance with HUB requirements could result in contract breach and potential debarment from state contracting for up to five years.