Snow Plow Blades

Portage County, Wisconsin is seeking bids for snow plow blades for the 2023/2024 winter season through a competitive Request for Bid (RFB) process. The procurement involves five specific line items, including 65 units of 7/8"x5"x4' shielded underbody carbide insert blades, 31 units of 7/8"x5"x3' shielded underbody carbide insert blades, 33 units of 7/8"x6"x3' rubber incased blades with clamping bars, and 61 units of 7/8"x6"x4' rubber incased blades with clamping bars. Bidders must be original manufacturers or authorized distributors/dealers with at least two years of experience in the blade business, and must provide three references from comparable-sized firms served within the past two years. Sealed bids are due by 2:00 PM on August 17, 2023, at the Portage County Purchasing Department, with a public bid opening immediately following. The contract term will run from October 1, 2023, through September 30, 2024, with three potential one-year renewal options. Award will be made to the lowest total cost responsive and responsible bidder(s) meeting all specifications, with multiple awards permitted.

The solicitation does not explicitly mention set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises. Bidders must quote prices in U.S. dollars and include all associated costs such as packing, transportation, fuel, insurance, and installation manuals on an FOB Destination Freight Included basis, delivered to the Portage County Highway Department. The county is exempt from federal excise and Wisconsin sales taxes, and requires all materials to be new and free from defects. While no specific budget range is provided, the county does not guarantee purchase of any specific quantity. The standard one-year warranty against defects will apply, with manufacturer's standard warranty honored as a minimum. Detailed specifications in the bid document include requirements for tungsten carbide inserts, blade construction materials, dimensions, hardness standards, brazing specifications, and rubber matrix properties. Blades must be shipped on pallets with minimum 3" x 36" openings, ensuring proper delivery and handling of the snow plow equipment.