Reflective License Plate Sheeting

The State of Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles is requesting quotes for retroreflective license plate sheeting under RFQ 29B 100226*789, with bids due March 30, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. The scope covers pre-printed retroreflective sheeting laminated to aluminum substrate with integrated three-dimensional security images, anti-counterfeiting warranty marks, and application to multiple Maine plate designs including standard passenger, motorcycle, and specialty plates (veterans, agricultural, firefighter, and cause-specific designs).

The estimated contract value for the initial three-year Master Agreement period is approximately $300,000, though the agreement covers all quantities ordered regardless of whether actual purchases exceed or fall below this estimate. Historical registration volumes show passenger plate demand at 578,707 units through January 2010, with commercial vehicles and specialty plates representing secondary segments. The contract runs from April 1, 2010 through March 31, 2013, with two optional consecutive three-year renewal periods available at the state's discretion.

Vendors must demonstrate prior experience supplying integrated license plate systems to other U.S. states, provide 3 to 5 references of equivalent scope, and submit a full 900-foot sample roll of sheeting for each design plus finished-plate samples for all current Maine designs. The specification requires retroreflective performance meeting candlepower standards, 2,000-hour xenon arc weathering resistance with 70 percent retention, five-year minimum performance life, and ISO 9001 registration certification. Successful vendors must provide state-of-the-art application equipment at no charge, graphic design services, 48-hour on-site technical support, toll-free assistance, and next-day delivery of stocked parts.

Vendors must furnish two performance and product bonds of $1 million each and maintain commercial general liability ($1 million per occurrence), workers' compensation, vehicle liability ($400,000 per occurrence), and environmental impairment liability ($1 million) coverage. Pricing is fixed at award, with reductions permitted throughout the term applying to all subsequent shipments. The state is exempt from federal excise and state sales taxes. Questions are due 48 hours prior to bid closing; all questions and answers are posted on the AdvantageME Vendor Self Service platform. Fabrication and equipment installation timeline is 60–90 days; delivery and installation, 30–60 days. First article delivery for custom-engraved cylinders allows 45–60 days for approval, with subsequent materials due within 30 days.