Live Bottom Trailer purchase.

The Maine Department of Transportation is requesting quotes for the purchase of four live bottom 5th wheel trailers for asphalt, recycled asphalt, aggregates, salt, and mulch transport, with quotes due December 18, 2007.

The scope comprises live bottom trailers with hydrostatic drive floors and air-operated locking tailgates, rated 26–30 cubic yards capacity, full-length C-channel reinforced frame not exceeding 39 feet overall length, tri-axle air-ride suspension, dual air brake systems with ABS, LED lighting, and insulation for asphalt heat retention. Trailers must be equipped with direct hydrostatic drive live floors. The awardee must maintain 95 percent parts availability within 48 hours and 24-hour availability for expendable items, with parts inventory located within Maine. One-year warranty from in-service date and two days of operator training (one day at delivery, one additional day within eight weeks) are required.

The contract period runs February 1, 2008, through February 1, 2010, structured as two purchase orders. The first order covers two units with preferred delivery by May 1, 2008; the second order (to be issued no later than 90 days before the second cycle begins) covers two units with preferred delivery by May 1, 2009. Pricing must remain firm for the entire 24-month contract period. The state is exempt from federal and Maine state sales and use taxes; bids should exclude these amounts. Awards will be made to the responsible bidder offering best value, with consideration given to quality, conformity with specifications, delivery dates, and ultimate cost. In tied bids, in-state bidders or bidders offering products manufactured in Maine receive preference.

Bids must include separate unit prices delivered to destination with all applicable discounts included, submitted on prescribed forms through the state's secure response system. MDOT reserves the right to perform warranty work in-house and recover costs from the manufacturer, except for major engine, transmission, and axle work.