Vehicle Utility Boxes

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) has issued an Invitation to Bid (ITB-036-26) for the procurement of vehicle utility boxes specifically for the Florida Highway Patrol and other departmental vehicles across multiple operational categories. The solicitation seeks heavy-duty steel or aluminum utility boxes with matte black powder coat finish, including equipment trays, drawers, and hardware for specific vehicle models such as Chevrolet Tahoe, Dodge Charger, Ford F-150, and Jeep Grand Cherokee. These utility boxes must include full-extension slides capable of supporting 150 pounds dynamic load and are required for various unit configurations including Patrol, Administrative, Criminal Investigation, DUI, and Drone operations. Bidder questions are due December 17, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. ET, with formal bids due January 12, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. ET. Prior to award, bidders must provide one completed storage system to the Central Installation Facility in Middleburg, Florida for test installation and final approval. The initial contract term will be four years with an option to renew for an additional four years, and the award will be made to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder.

The procurement includes specific provisions favoring Florida-domiciled businesses, with a five percent price preference awarded when the lowest bid comes from an out-of-state vendor. Bidders must submit mandatory certifications including PUR 2023 (Forced Labor), PUR 2024 (Coercion for Labor), and PUR 7801 (Vendor Certification). Subcontractors may be utilized only with prior written Department consent, and monthly Certified Business Enterprise Reports are required if subcontractors meeting diversity criteria are engaged. While specific award values are not explicitly stated, the price sheet includes estimated annual quantities for 12 vehicle models across multiple operational categories, suggesting a potentially substantial contract value. Contractors must provide all products within ninety days of written request, with strict replacement requirements for defective items - acknowledging issues within 24 hours and delivering replacements within three business days. The Department reserves the right to add, delete, or substitute products at contract prices or current market rates, providing flexibility in the procurement process.