Refrigerated Semi Trailer Vans (DGS-OTA)

The California Department of General Services (DGS) and California Department of Education are soliciting bids for nine refrigerated semi trailer vans through Invitation for Bid (IFB) Event ID 0000035585, scheduled for bid submission by August 28, 2025, at 2:00 PM PT. The procurement encompasses three specific trailer configurations: one 28-foot van, two 46-foot vans, and six 32-foot vans to be delivered to distribution centers in Sacramento and Pomona. These new trailers must be fully functional "turn-key" products manufactured by companies with at least two years of experience, equipped with Thermo King refrigeration units capable of maintaining temperatures as low as minus 20 degrees Fahrenheit, and meeting California Air Resources Board emissions certifications. Bidders must provide comprehensive descriptive literature, standard and special tools, manufacturer warranties, and pre-delivery inspection documentation. The trailers must comply with California Vehicle Code requirements and include specific technical specifications such as air-ride suspension, LED lighting, lift gates, and ABS brakes. Evaluation will be conducted on an "All or None" basis, with award made to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder, with a proposed Notice of Intent to Award date of September 6, 2025.

The solicitation includes several socioeconomic preference programs that provide potential bid incentives, including a Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) program offering a 1-5% bid incentive and a Small Business Preference providing a 5% preference. Total preferences and incentives are capped at 15% of the lowest net bid amount or $100,000, whichever is less. Bidders must complete a comprehensive Narrative Response form disclosing Generative AI usage, business preferences, and international business operations. The procurement allows for potential quantity increases up to 100% of the total dollar amount and establishes a three-year procurement period from the purchase order date. Warranty service providers must be located within 60 miles of delivery locations, and contractors must provide immediate response to warranty requests. While specific award values are not explicitly stated, the procurement requires detailed cost worksheets for each trailer configuration, with vendors expected to include shipping and handling in their unit and extended costs. Invoicing will be processed after successful delivery and inspection, with invoices submitted to the California Department of Education's Fiscal and Administrative Services Division.