HHS0017406 Insulated shippers and cold packs

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) Procurement and Contracting Services division is requesting bids on behalf of the Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Laboratory for insulated shippers and cold packs under IFB HHS0017406, with responses due July 6, 2026 at 10:30 AM Central Time and a questions deadline of June 19, 2026.

The procurement covers two specific products: Sonoco Thermosafe Mailer multipurpose insulated shippers (Product #15714-522) with an estimated annual quantity of 30 cases, and Sonoco Thermosafe Polar pack gel packs (Product #14100-478) with an estimated annual quantity of 60 cases. These items are shipped to public health submitters who use them for specimen collection for cholesterol, glucose, hepatitis, HIV, and COVID testing. Pricing must be submitted as firm, fixed prices on a per-case basis with estimated shipping costs per shipment in U.S. dollars.

Historical spending during the prior contract period (September 1, 2025 through August 31, 2026) was $35,000, provided as a guideline only. The initial contract term runs September 1, 2026 through August 31, 2027, with four optional one-year renewal periods available through August 31, 2031, and one additional extension option of up to one year at HHSC discretion. Price adjustments may be permitted during renewal periods using the Consumer Price Index formula or based on federal minimum wage increases, subject to HHSC approval.

The vendor is responsible for all delivery costs including transportation and unloading. Deliveries must occur between 7:00 AM and 2:00 PM on specified dates. Product substitutions require prior written approval from the agency contact and must meet or exceed published specifications. Award will be made to the bidder providing the best value based on meeting or exceeding specifications, delivery capability, and price. Responses are evaluated on past vendor performance, ability to perform, and compliance with all IFB requirements; HHSC reserves the right to make single or multiple awards. Submission requires completion of Exhibit A (HHS Solicitation Affirmations) and Exhibit C (Pricing Sheet) and acknowledgment of any addendums. Responses may be submitted via the HHS Online Bid Room or alternative methods specified in the solicitation package.