IW230505

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) Contracts and Procurement Department is seeking bids for red plastic egg crates through an Invitation for Bids (IFB) numbered IW230505. The specific procurement is for Stock Number 685-35: Red Plastic Egg Crates manufactured by Kuhl, with precise specifications including dimensions of 26"L x 14"W x 15"H, weighing 7 pounds, and capable of holding 30 dozen eggs per case. The total quantity requested is 2,300 units, which will be delivered to the TDCJ Mainwright (formerly Eastham) Unit Farm Office in Lovelady, TX. The bid opening is scheduled for October 9, 2025, at 3 P.M., with bids to be submitted to the TDCJ Contracts and Procurement Department in Huntsville, TX. Bidders must quote F.O.B. destination, prepaid and allowed, with unit pricing firm for 30 days from the bid opening date. Electronic submission is preferred, with a 10 MB attachment limit per email, and documents must be in Microsoft Office format.

The solicitation includes several compliance requirements that may restrict or qualify potential bidders, such as Texas Bidder preferences, E-Verify system verification, and multiple state-specific certifications. Vendors must comply with state accessibility standards, recycled product considerations, and various government code provisions related to conflict of interest, fraud prevention, and vendor eligibility. Payment terms are set at thirty calendar days after invoice receipt or goods delivery, with potential contract extension options at the state's discretion. While no specific set-aside designations are explicitly mentioned, the comprehensive compliance requirements suggest a rigorous vendor qualification process. The procurement appears to be focused on a specific, specialized product for the TDCJ's agricultural operations, with an estimated total value based on the 2,300 units requested. The bid presents an opportunity for vendors capable of meeting the precise specifications and comprehensive state procurement requirements.