Specialty Lumber - Ash & Birch

The State of Maine Division of Purchases is requesting quotes for specialty lumber — ash and birch products — with quotes due May 7, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. local time through the AdvantageME electronic procurement system.

In-state bidder preference applies in case of tie bids; preference is also given to bidders offering commodities produced or manufactured in Maine. Electronic submission is mandatory. Questions must be submitted through the AdvantageME Question and Answer link; a 48-hour window before bid closing applies to valid questions, and responses are posted in the same location.

Award will be made to the lowest responsible bidder offering the best value to the state, with evaluation considering quality, conformity to specifications, delivery dates, and overall economy. Cash discounts for payments 20 days or more are factored into low-bid determination; discounts under 20 days are not considered. Pricing should be submitted as separate unit prices for each item, delivered to destination with all transportation charges prepaid by the contractor unless otherwise specified. The state is exempt from federal and Maine state sales and use taxes, and quotes must exclude these taxes. The state reserves the right to increase or decrease ordered quantities by up to 10%.

Bidders may submit alternate commodities with complete identification and descriptive literature if proposing items other than those specified. All hazardous chemicals require Material Safety Data Sheets in accordance with Maine's Chemical Substance Identification Law. Contractors must furnish items exactly as specified on the Purchase Order; deviations may result in rejection. The state reserves the right to reject any or all quotes.

Questions are due by May 5, 2010 to receive timely responses.