Invitation for Bid (IFB) 32A0649 Laboratory Analysis of Petroleum Hydrocarbon Products and Engine Coolants, Statewide

The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has issued Invitation for Bid (IFB) 32A0649 for statewide laboratory analysis services of petroleum hydrocarbon products and engine coolants. The contract will provide comprehensive laboratory testing services for lubricants, fuels, and coolant products submitted by Caltrans Division of Equipment (DOE) 13 District Shops across California. Bidders must be located within California and possess ISO 9001 and 17025 quality control program certifications, with required analyses including physical testing, spectrochemical analysis, and infrared spectrophotometer testing for various sample types such as crankcase oils, hydraulic oils, gear oils, automatic transmission fluids, diesel fuels, and engine coolants. The bid documents are available starting May 14, 2025, with written questions due by May 20, 2025, and final bid submissions required on May 29, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. The proposed contract term spans from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2028, with an estimated award date of June 12, 2025.

The solicitation includes a 25% Small Business (SB) participation goal, and while a Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) participation requirement is not mandatory, a DVBE incentive will apply to bidders. Bidders will be evaluated on their ability to provide comprehensive analysis across multiple sample types, with detailed pricing structures for different analysis timeframes and sample categories. The contract appears to be open to laboratories capable of performing complex petroleum product testing, with a focus on California-based businesses. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, the detailed pricing schedules and statewide scope suggest a potentially significant contract value. The procurement appears designed to establish a multi-year contract for critical laboratory testing services supporting Caltrans' equipment maintenance and monitoring operations, with a clear emphasis on supporting small and diverse businesses within the state.