TDOT - Salt Brine & Utility Trailer - UPDATED

The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) is seeking a contractor to provide 25 utility trailers and 40 salt brine trailers for its four regional office locations in Knoxville, Chattanooga, Nashville, and Jackson. The procurement is a single contract solicitation with a five-year term, potentially extendable up to 120 months total. Both trailer types must meet specific technical specifications, including a 14,000 lb gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), precise dimensional requirements, and stringent manufacturing standards involving specific materials, welding methods, lighting, and safety features. All trailers must be delivered fully assembled and painted in gloss black with corrosion-resistant, lead and chromate-free paints, with delivery scheduled by March 19, 2025. The bid evaluation will be weighted equally at 50% for utility trailers and 50% for brine trailers, with the contract awarded to the lowest cost responsive and responsible bidder meeting all specifications. Key submission deadlines include a bid opening period from February 24, 2025, to March 14, 2025, with questions about the solicitation required to be submitted by February 28, 2025, at 2:00 PM CST.

The solicitation includes specific requirements for diversity business participation, mandating that bidders submit documentation demonstrating commitment to inclusive contracting practices. Vendors must be registered with the Tennessee Department of Revenue for sales and use tax collection and provide necessary registration or exemption documentation. Insurance requirements are comprehensive, including workers' compensation, commercial general liability ($1M per occurrence, $2M aggregate), and automobile liability ($1M). Bidders must submit their proposals through the state's Edison Supplier Portal, maintaining current vendor profile information. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, the procurement involves multiple trailer acquisitions across four regional locations, suggesting a substantial contract value. The contract terms include provisions for accommodating participants with disabilities, prohibitions on unauthorized advertising, and compliance with state and federal laws. Contractors will be responsible for all shipping charges, which must be included in the bid price, and TDOT retains the right to inspect and potentially reject non-conforming goods, with contractors required to replace or repair defective items at no additional cost within 30 days.