Refrigerated Trailer

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and the Department of State Health Services (DSHS) are seeking to procure a 48-foot semi-trailer refrigerated trailer through an Invitation for Bid (IFB No: HHS0016579) covering Travis County and multiple Austin City jurisdictions. The procurement specifically requires a 2018 or newer refrigerated trailer with a 65,000-pound GVWR, featuring precise temperature control capabilities ranging from -20F to 70F and humidity control between 60% to 85%. The trailer must meet comprehensive technical specifications, including specific requirements for running gear, frame construction, insulation, air and electrical systems, and a refrigeration unit that complies with ATA, DOT, and U.S.F.D.A. standards. Bidders will be evaluated not only on price but on their ability to meet detailed specifications, delivery requirements, and demonstrate past performance, with HHSC reserving the right to select the bid providing the best value. Key deadlines include a response submission deadline of August 29, 2025, at 10:30 AM Central Time, with the contract set to begin on August 31, 2025, and potential one-year extensions available.

The solicitation includes several set-aside and compliance requirements that may impact bidder eligibility, with preferences indicated for Texas-based vendors, veteran-owned businesses, and businesses meeting specific ethical and legal standards. Respondents must provide comprehensive certifications covering areas such as cybersecurity training, absence of felony convictions, and compliance with various state and federal regulatory standards. The bid includes specific restrictions on business interactions, including limitations related to abortion funding, human trafficking prohibitions, and constraints on dealings with certain foreign entities. While a specific award value is not explicitly stated, the procurement requires vendors to submit firm, fixed pricing using the provided Exhibit C - Pricing Sheet, with potential price adjustments based on Bureau of Labor Statistics indices at HHSC's discretion. Electronic bid submissions must be sent to PCSBids@hhsc.state.tx.us, with the trailer to be inspected and picked up within a 200-mile radius of Austin, TX, and an expected standard delivery of 14 days after order receipt.