MN DNR 20 Foot Shipping Container Purchase

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Forestry Division is issuing a formal Request for Bid for the purchase of four new, one-trip 20-foot shipping containers to be delivered to the Badoura Nursery located at 13885 Minnesota 64, Akeley, MN 56433-0117. The containers must meet specific technical specifications including 8-foot height, 8-foot width, steel construction, rust-free condition, uniform color, and a door on one end (either double or roll-up). Delivery must be accomplished via tilt-bed ground-drop delivery due to the facility's lack of equipment for standard unloading methods, though the State retains the capability to move containers once placed on the ground. Responses must be submitted electronically through the Supplier Portal with pricing entered directly into the SWIFT system on a per-unit basis, and all costs including delivery, unloading, duties, permits, and applicable fees must be included in quoted prices, with delivery on an FOB Destination, prepaid and freight-included basis. The original response deadline of April 15, 2026, at 2:00 PM Central Time was extended via addendum to April 21, 2026, at 2:00 PM Central Time. Written questions regarding the solicitation must be directed to Procurement Specialist Jeeneng Jay Vang at Jeeneng.vang@state.mn.us no later than April 15, 2026, at 2:00 PM CT, with responses provided via addendum. The contract term runs from April 2026 through June 30, 2026, with an option for extension of up to one additional year in increments determined by the State, and payment terms are Net 30 days from receipt of an undisputed invoice or merchandise delivery, whichever is later.

The State of Minnesota offers preference points equal to 12 percent of total available points to certified Targeted Group, Economically Disadvantaged, and Veteran-Owned businesses, and 6 percent to eligible DEED/DHS providers, allowing disadvantaged enterprises to be competitive in the award determination process. Respondents must complete diversity and inclusion questionnaires regarding small business status and ownership by minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, or service-disabled veterans to determine potential eligibility for the State's Small Business Procurement Program. The contract does not require insurance or permit subcontracting, and all work must be performed within the United States borders. No current incumbent vendor or existing contractor is identified in the available solicitation materials. The estimated total dollar value of the contract for one year is projected between $10,000 and $15,000, though this figure is not binding as either a minimum or maximum amount. Responses must remain firm for 90 days following submission, and all contract provisions must comply with Minnesota's unenforceable terms statute, which voids mandatory arbitration clauses, automatic renewal provisions, and certain indemnification requirements.