Rubber-Tired Loader (Buyback) FY27

The Commonwealth of Kentucky, Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC), Division of Purchases is requesting bids for twelve four-wheel drive articulated rubber-tired loaders with a guaranteed one-year buyback program under RFB 605_2700000103, with bids due September 15, 2026 at 1:30 p.m. Eastern Time and a tentative award date of September 28, 2026.

Each loader must feature a Tier IV final diesel engine with minimum 160 HP, power shift transmission with minimum four forward and three reverse speeds, 3.0 cubic yard general purpose bucket with bolt-on cutting edge, SAE rated static tipping load of no less than 16,000 lbs, dumping height of at least 9 feet at 45-degree discharge, and operating weight of at least 26,600 lbs. Additional mandated equipment includes hydraulic auxiliary tool attachment systems, pallet forks, lift boom, onboard weighing system equivalent to Loadrite L5000, telematics capabilities, and ride control option. Approved models are Case 621, Caterpillar 926, John Deere 544, and Volvo L60H when compliant with specifications.

All units must be delivered by November 30, 2026 to KYTC Division of Equipment in Frankfort, Kentucky. Award is based on best value using a ranking approach with two measurable criteria: purchase price (65 points) and guaranteed buyback price after one year (35 points). Successful bidders must be authorized dealers and provide full machine warranty for 24 months/2,000 hours, on-site service and repair at no additional cost with guaranteed on-site response by certified technician within 24 hours, and a performance bond equal to 25% of the guaranteed buyback price within 10 calendar days of notification. Commercial general liability insurance of $1 million per occurrence and $2 million aggregate is required.

Kentucky resident bidders are eligible for reciprocal preference. Written questions are due by September 2, 2026, with responses posted by September 8, 2026. Electronic submissions only through https://vss.ky.gov are accepted.