FNS Storage and Distribution Services
ID: 12-3198-25-R-0010Type: Combined Synopsis/Solicitation
Overview

Buyer

AGRICULTURE, DEPARTMENT OFFOOD AND NUTRITION SERVICEUSDA FNSALEXANDRIA, VA, 22302, USA

NAICS

Warehousing and Storage (4931)

PSC

TRANSPORTATION/TRAVEL/RELOCATION- OTHER: OTHER (V999)
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Agriculture, specifically the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), is seeking proposals for Third-Party Logistics (3PL) services related to the storage and distribution of multi-temperature food products. The procurement aims to establish up to two Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contracts, which will include a one-year base period and four one-year option periods, to ensure efficient transportation, receipt, storage, and distribution of USDA commodities in compliance with federal food safety standards. This initiative is crucial for supporting various food assistance programs, including the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) and the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP), thereby enhancing food security for vulnerable populations. Interested contractors must submit their proposals by the specified deadlines, with a total funding ceiling of $250 million over the contract duration. For further inquiries, potential offerors can contact Tracy-Ann Thomas-Arthur at tracy-ann.thomas-arthur@usda.gov or Monifa Coleman at Monifa.Coleman@usda.gov.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Tracy-Ann Thomas-Arthur
    tracy-ann.thomas-arthur@usda.gov
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    The memorandum from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food and Nutrition Service outlines changes to the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) regarding the maximum monthly distribution of vegetable items. Due to previous supply chain issues leading to reduced vegetable offerings, the program temporarily decreased the vegetable allotment from 8 cans to 4 cans as of February 2021, later increasing it to 6 cans in November 2021. However, effective May 1, 2022, the program will resume full issuance of 8 units of vegetables or soup per month due to improved market conditions. The memorandum emphasizes the importance of adhering to the new guidelines while acknowledging that pre-packed food packages can be distributed as previously configured. Additionally, it details temporary purchases of alternative vegetable products to address supply shortages and provides instructions for including these temporary items in distributions. This initiative aims to ensure CSFP participants receive necessary food assistance while reflecting the USDA's adaptability to fluctuating agricultural market conditions. The document highlights the importance of maintaining food availability in federal nutrition programs, particularly in response to unforeseen supply challenges.
    The FNS Handbook 501 Exhibit O outlines the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations' Monthly Distribution Guide, effective October 1, 2024. It specifies the quantity of various USDA food items available based on household size for program participants. Key categories include grains, vegetables, fruits, meat, poultry, fish, dairy, and oils, with limits on the number of units per person. For example, households can receive up to 5 units of grains and up to 20 units of fruits and vegetables. Unique items such as seasonal products and bonuses, which do not count against the main unit limits, are also specified. The document emphasizes the need for food product availability to adapt to market conditions and includes detailed guidelines on the distribution limits for various food types. This structured approach ensures that program participants receive adequate nutrition while complying with logistical and availability constraints. The report serves as a critical guideline for the implementation of the food distribution program, aligning with government objectives to support indigenous populations.
    The USDA Foods Available List for the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) for Fiscal Year 2025 outlines the various food items provided to support low-income individuals. The document categorizes foods into groups such as fruits, vegetables, protein sources, dairy, and grains, each with specific product descriptions, WBSCM IDs, and pack sizes. Key items include various juices, canned fruits and vegetables, meat, and dairy products, emphasizing low-sodium options when applicable. The list aims to facilitate food distribution planning while promoting nutritional variety. Changes may occur based on market availability, with the WBSCM catalog serving as the authoritative source for the latest updates. This resource is vital for organizations involved in public health and nutrition assistance, aligning with federal and state RFPs aimed at addressing food insecurity among vulnerable populations.
    The USDA Foods Available List for the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) for Fiscal Year 2025 details a comprehensive array of food products available to support nutritional assistance for Native American communities. This list is organized into categories including fruits, vegetables, protein foods, grains, dairy, oils, and traditional foods. Specific offerings include items such as canned fruits and vegetables, various meats, dairy products, grains like pasta and rice, and traditional foods sourced from tribal vendors. Each food item is assigned a WBSCM ID and designated pack size, streamlining the ordering process and aiding in the tracking of food supplies. The document emphasizes that availability may shift based on market conditions, and users are encouraged to consult the WBSCM catalog for the most current offerings. Additionally, seasonal and traditional food purchases depend on funding availability and vendor capacity. This food distribution initiative aligns with broader federal efforts to ensure that tribally-associated populations receive adequate access to healthy and culturally relevant food options as part of federal grants and support programs.
    The Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) provides USDA Foods to income-eligible households on Indian reservations and nearby areas, including specific locations in Oklahoma. Administered by federal, state, or tribal agencies, FDPIR serves as an alternative to SNAP for many families. In Fiscal Year (FY) 2024, 110 agencies oversee the program, distributing nutrient-rich food packages that include a variety of products such as fruits, vegetables, grains, proteins, and dairy. The USDA sets income eligibility standards, with annual updates published in the FNS Handbook. Households cannot concurrently participate in FDPIR and SNAP. In FY 2024, approximately $170 million is allocated to FDPIR, covering both food purchases and administrative costs. In FY 2023, the program averaged 49,339 participants monthly, highlighting its critical role in food security for eligible households. Additionally, the program emphasizes nutrition education and offers a range of resources and support for effective food use. Contact information for local administering agencies is provided for further inquiries, underscoring the program's focus on accessibility and community assistance. Overall, FDPIR plays a vital role in improving nutritional access within Indigenous communities while supporting federal food policy initiatives.
    The Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) aims to enhance the health of low-income seniors aged 60 and older by providing nutritious USDA Foods. Operated federally by the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) under the USDA, CSFP distributes food and administrative funds to state agencies and Indian Tribal Organizations (ITOs) that manage local deliveries. These local entities not only provide food but also assess eligibility, distribute packages, and offer nutrition education while connecting participants to additional assistance programs. For FY 2024, Congress allocated $389 million for CSFP, allowing up to 731,933 individuals nationwide to access its services monthly. Eligibility is determined by income, requiring participants to be at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines, and nutritional risk may also be a factor. The program is authorized under the Agriculture and Consumer Protection Act of 1973, and local agencies must adhere to federal regulations regarding operation and food distribution. For inquiries, individuals can contact their state agency or the USDA directly. This program exemplifies government efforts to provide essential nutrition assistance to vulnerable populations, facilitating healthier diets and improved access to food resources.
    The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) is a federal initiative managed by the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) of the USDA, aimed at providing emergency food assistance to low-income individuals at no cost. Administered federally and at state levels across all 50 states and territories, TEFAP distributes a variety of nutritious USDA Foods to eligible recipient agencies (ERAs), including food banks and community action agencies, which in turn serve local communities. The allocation of USDA Foods is based on the number of unemployed persons and poverty levels in each state. In fiscal year 2024, TEFAP received $461.5 million for food purchases and $80 million for administrative costs, supplemented by ‘bonus’ foods and funding from the Commodity Credit Corporation. Originally established to address agricultural market surpluses and assist low-income persons, the program has evolved since its inception in 1981. Interested organizations must meet specific eligibility requirements and adhere to state-set income guidelines to access TEFAP resources. This document aims to inform stakeholders about TEFAP's structure, funding, and operational processes, while also emphasizing the importance of nutrition assistance for vulnerable populations.
    The document titled "MAP for FDPIR - CSFP Zone and Program Locations" provides an interactive Geographic Information System (GIS) link to visualize and assess the locations relevant to the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) and the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP). The purpose of the document is to facilitate the assessment and planning of food distribution initiatives by offering a visual representation of the program zones and their respective locations. The interactive platform allows stakeholders to engage with the data and identify areas of interest for federal grants and Requests for Proposals (RFPs) related to food assistance programs. This resource plays a crucial role in enhancing program accessibility and effectiveness, ensuring that eligible populations receive necessary food resources. Overall, the document underscores the importance of geographical data in optimizing food distribution strategies, pertinent to governmental efforts in addressing food security issues within targeted populations.
    The document comprises a comprehensive list of addresses and delivery locations for food distribution programs, specifically the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) and the Food Distribution Program for Indian Reservations (FDPIR). These programs target areas across various states, presenting a systematic approach to address food insecurity within designated zones. Each entry includes specific addresses and related city, state, and ZIP information, indicating a robust network aimed at facilitating food access to vulnerable populations. The inclusion of average orders, weight metrics, and storage conditions for food items reinforces the program's operational framework. The database illustrates the federal and local government's commitment to combating hunger through structured food distribution channels, assisting those in need across diverse geographic regions. Overall, the document serves as a logistical reference for implementing these critical food programs.
    The document outlines the pricing schedule for Storage and Distribution Services under a federal contract, specifically for food handling and storage related to the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) programs. It includes various Contract Line Item Numbers (CLINs) that detail pricing for different services such as In/Out Handling, Floor Loaded Handling, Dry Storage, Cooler and Freezer Storage, and Surge Storage. Contractors are required to provide unit pricing for each CLIN, adhering to specified formats and limits. Key elements include the definition of services, billing procedures (e.g., bi-monthly invoicing), and constraints on pricing caps due to the indefinite quantity nature of the contract. For example, handling prices are one-time fees per pallet, and storage charges occur monthly based on inventory counts. The document also addresses transportation costs, out-of-route mileage, and applicable surcharges. It emphasizes the importance of accurate pricing for public accountability and effective budgeting within federal programs aimed at distributing food services across various states and localities. Ultimately, this document serves to ensure clarity and transparency in the procurement process as it pertains to essential food distribution services.
    The Performance Work Statement (PWS) outlines the requirements for Third-Party Logistics (3PL) services for the USDA's Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), focusing on the storage and distribution of food products for various programs, including the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) and the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP). The PWS establishes the contractor's responsibilities, including project management, receipt of commodities, inventory management, and quality assurance. A key goal is to ensure timely and efficient delivery of food products while adhering to all regulatory standards for food safety and inventory control. The contractor must maintain a robust system for receiving, storing, and distributing food, ensuring compliance with best industry practices and prompt reporting of issues. Safety, security, and data management are prioritized, requiring the contractor to have clear emergency response and exigency plans. The document specifies key deliverables, including regular training and compliance with USDA's protocols, and mandates collaboration with federal and state agencies. Emphasizing service quality, the contractor is expected to engage in continual performance evaluations, feedback loops with program operators, and timely reporting. This comprehensive approach aims to enhance food access for low-income households and support the USDA's mission of promoting nutrition and food security across diverse communities.
    The document outlines the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) and the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP), highlighting the food packages participants receive and the distribution methods employed. FDPIR provides a diverse selection of fresh, frozen, and shelf-stable foods according to a monthly guide rate, which varies based on household size. Distribution methods include warehouse pick-up, home delivery, grocery store concepts, and local distribution to overcome transportation barriers. CSFP focuses on seniors, offering a monthly food package that primarily includes shelf-stable items due to limited refrigeration at community sites. Both programs utilize the Web Based Supply Chain Management system for ordering foods from the USDA Foods available lists. The comprehensive strategy aims to address nutritional needs and improve food accessibility for vulnerable populations, specifically Native Americans and seniors, ensuring adequate, diverse food offerings are provided to households.
    The document outlines the interactions between the Contractor’s warehouse management system and the USDA’s Warehouse Business Systems and Commodity Management (WBSCM) system, focusing on improving efficiency and accuracy of inventory data. The contract mandates the establishment of multiple Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) transactions, such as EDI 846 (Inventory Status Report), EDI 940 (Warehouse Shipping Order), and others essential for inventory management. Key sections cover processes for warehouse stock transfers, shipping orders, shipment receipts, invoicing, and managing inventory data, including reconciliations. Additionally, it addresses the functionalities and responsibilities of warehouse users, such as maintaining delivery calendars, submitting invoices, and handling complaints. It stipulates the need for ongoing compatibility with WBSCM during system upgrades and includes guidance on user credentials and deprecated specifications. The overall purpose is to streamline warehouse operations in conjunction with USDA directives, thereby reducing administrative burdens and enhancing inventory oversight. This document is critical in guiding Federal contractors engaged in food distribution and inventory management, reflecting the government's emphasis on efficient resource management and operational accountability.
    The document outlines the procedures and requirements for submitting Bi-Monthly Transaction Reports and Handling Invoices related to government contracts, specifically for the USDA. Reports must be submitted twice a month, covering inventory transactions from the 1st to the 15th and the 16th to the end of the month, with specific due dates. Each report should be in Microsoft Excel format, sent via email to designated individuals, and include comprehensive supporting documentation. Key information required includes contractor details, activity dates, and case balances, with distinct formats for inbound and outbound shipments. Additionally, inventory adjustments must be carefully documented with unique adjustment numbers. This reporting framework ensures accurate tracking of inventory levels and transactions related to food assistance programs, thus supporting the financial oversight and operational efficiency of federal and local food distribution efforts. The detailed guidance emphasizes compliance with federal regulations and the significance of documentation in the successful management of food programs. This structure reflects an organized approach to managing government RFPs, grants, and contract obligations, ensuring transparency and accountability within these processes.
    The document outlines the procedures and requirements for submitting bi-monthly storage invoices as part of a federal program, detailing the timelines, formats, and necessary documentation. Invoices are to be submitted every two weeks, with the first reporting period covering the 1st through the 15th of each month and the second from the 16th to the end of the month. Due dates are specified, including a note that reports submitted after a holiday or weekend must be turned in the following business day. Invoices must be in Microsoft Excel format and sent to designated contacts via email, housed in a shared electronic data folder. The document mandates various header information to be included in each report, such as contractor's details, contract numbers, and invoice specifics. Supporting documents are crucial, including bills of lading (BOLs) and details on received pallets and outbound shipments. The submission ensures proper tracking and accountability within government-funded storage and distribution programs, emphasizing thorough reporting to maintain compliance with USDA requirements. This framework enables streamlining of processes critical for federal and state/local grants and RFPs, ensuring efficient resource management and oversight. Overall, the document serves as a critical reference for contractors engaged in these programs, highlighting the importance of timely and accurate reporting in federal initiatives.
    The document outlines the requirements for submitting monthly transportation invoices to the USDA, mandating their upload by 4:00 p.m. EST. Invoices must be formatted as Microsoft Excel files and contain specific header information, including contractor details, contract and task order numbers, and a point of contact. Each supporting document, including outbound Bills of Lading (BOL) and related emails, should be organized by individual transportation transactions and stored separately. Reports must detail gross shipment weight, delivery dates, and various routing and financial metrics, ensuring a thorough breakdown for each shipment. The format also specifies requirements for multi-stop truckloads and the necessity of contractor certification. The structured approach ensures clarity and accountability in the invoicing process, crucial for accurately tracking transportation costs associated with federal grants and government procurement processes. This comprehensive invoicing procedure helps streamline interactions with recipient agencies under programs like FDPIR and CSFP, ultimately supporting efficient resource distribution.
    The document outlines the BIUB Guidelines for National Warehouse Inventory, detailing various food items and their corresponding average shelf life, expressed in months and days, across programs such as the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) and the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR). It categorizes items like beans, cereals, meats, and sauces, specifying quantities and packaging details. Each entry includes a Material Description, Average BIUB, and relevant remarks, with updates as recent as February 13, 2023. These guidelines serve a crucial role in inventory management for government food aid programs, ensuring food safety and appropriate stock levels for nutritional assistance initiatives. By providing structured information, the document aids in maintaining compliance with federal standards, optimizing supply chain efficiency, and supporting outreach efforts to assist vulnerable populations. The guidelines are essential for coordinating food distribution effectively, reinforcing the government's commitment to addressing food insecurity through structured management and oversight of resources.
    The document outlines the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) Foods Available List, detailing a variety of food items provided to eligible participants. These items encompass canned fruits, frozen fruits, dried fruits, nuts, juices, canned vegetables, frozen vegetables, soups, beans, dry beans, meats, poultry, fish, dairy products, cereals, oils, and fats. Each food item is identified by its pack size and material code, emphasizing the structured organization of available foods critical to the FDPIR. The primary purpose of this file is to serve as a reference for agencies and organizations involved in the distribution of food supplies under the FDPIR, ensuring that they comply with federal standards while meeting the nutritional needs of populations in Indian reservations. The categorical listing aids in efficient inventory management and procurement relevant to the implementation of federal grants and state/local RFPs, facilitating the provision of essential food resources to underserved communities. This structured approach to food distribution aligns with federal objectives of food security and public nutrition, particularly in support of Indigenous populations.
    The document provides a comprehensive list of food items available through the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP), detailing various types of canned fruits, vegetables, beans, meats, grains, dairy, and cereals. Each item is specified with its pack size, material code, storage temperature, and stacking capability. The listing highlights specific categories such as canned fruits, juices, canned vegetables, canned and dry beans, ready-to-eat cereals, and shelf-stable meats, indicating a wide range of nutritional options for program beneficiaries. Additionally, the document categorizes foods based on their appropriateness for inclusion in programs like FDPIR (Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations) and CSFP, emphasizing the focus on providing accessible, nutritious food to low-income households. This file serves to inform potential vendors and stakeholders involved in procurement and distribution within federal grant frameworks and RFP initiatives concerning food supplies for community assistance programs.
    The document outlines logistics and inventory metrics for food distribution across different zones, focusing on outbound and inbound shipments categorized by storage temperature (dry, cooler, frozen). It details the average number of material codes per month, monthly quantities requested in pounds and cases for all sites, and the percentage share of national outbound orders for each category. Additionally, it presents replenishment metrics for inbound shipments in terms of cases and pallets, along with active inventory ranges (minimum and maximum) for the warehouse across various storage types. The statistics represent a 4- to 6-month inventory estimate, excluding canceled orders to ensure accurate reporting. The information is significant for government procurement processes, as it aids in understanding logistics needs and capacities for RFP evaluations related to food distribution services, ensuring adequate supply chain management and compliance with national standards.
    The document presents statistical data regarding orders processed for food assistance between January 2023 and November 2024, focusing on two programs: the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) and the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR). It summarizes quantities of cases, pounds per order, and the number of material codes by storage type (dry, cooler, frozen). Key findings reveal that for CSFP, the mean quantity of cases per order is 1,915, primarily from dry storage (1,797 cases), while FDPIR shows a mean of 1,022 cases, with a notable contribution from frozen storage (164 cases). In terms of pounds per order, CSFP averages 40,833 pounds, again dominated by dry storage (38,001 pounds), while FDPIR averages 25,250 pounds, largely from frozen goods (5,448 pounds). Finally, CSFP orders typically consist of about 13 material codes, contrasting sharply with FDPIR's average of over 46 codes. This document serves as an important resource for understanding food assistance distribution logistics and supports future federal and state funding or resource allocation decisions based on these insights.
    The document outlines temperature and humidity requirements for the storage of various USDA commodities, emphasizing their importance for food safety and quality. It specifies that dry storage temperature for items such as UHT milk, peanut butter, and crackers should be maintained between 33°F and 80°F, ensuring no item drops below 33°F or exceeds 80°F. Excessive humidity can lead to spoilage or promote mold and bacteria growth, making consistent management crucial. For cooler storage, items like cheese and rice must be stored between 30°F and 50°F, focusing on preventing pathogen growth. Meanwhile, frozen commodities including fish and meat are required to be stored at 0°F or below upon delivery, with tight temperature controls to maintain product integrity. The document serves as a comprehensive guide for maintaining optimal storage conditions for food products, aligning with government standards to prevent loss and ensure safety and quality during storage and distribution, which resonates with federal and state-level food safety initiatives.
    The document comprises monthly inventory aging and transaction reports related to food commodities managed under federal and state assistance programs like CSFP and FDPIR. It provides details on food items, their procurement and shipping status, management of inventory aging, and adjustments during audits. Key sections include Monthly Inventory Aging Reports, Bi-Monthly Transaction Reports, and Storage and Transportation Invoices. Each entry lists the material details, quantities, reasons for inventory holds or adjustments, and billing information, ensuring proper tracking and reporting of food distribution efforts. The primary purpose of these reports is to maintain transparency and accountability within government food assistance programs by documenting the flow of commodities. They monitor product expiration dates to ensure safety and appropriateness for distribution while enabling efficient inventory management. The structured format assists in compliance with federal regulations, highlighting the systematic approach toward resource allocation in community food programs. This approach addresses food security needs while ensuring that the commodities distributed are safe and appropriately managed throughout their lifecycle.
    The document outlines the performance standards, incentives, and penalties related to storage and distribution services under the federal Food and Nutrition Service (FNS). It stipulates financial deductions for contractors who fail to meet specific requirements, such as timely submission of invoices and accurate reporting. Key penalties include $250 for late reports and $500 for failures in lot identity maintenance or temperature compliance. The document emphasizes maintaining inventory on a First Expired First Out (FEFO) basis and efficient and on-time delivery schedules, with deductions up to 50% for late shipments. Additionally, the contractor must ensure products are shipped safely and notify relevant authorities about misassignments and seal incidents. Overall, the guidelines ensure accountability and quality in the management of USDA commodities, aiming to enhance compliance and optimize service delivery in government-funded programs. This ensures the integrity of the distribution process within federal grant and RFP contexts, maintaining rigorous oversight for federal nutrition programs.
    The document outlines a Past Performance Questionnaire as part of the evaluation process for contractors bidding on storage and distribution services for the USDA's Food and Nutrition Service (FNS). The FNS seeks feedback on contractors' previous engagements to assess their performance in several key areas: quality of service, on-time delivery, overall performance satisfaction, end-user satisfaction, and contract management. The questionnaire includes a rating system from 0 (Unsatisfactory) to 5 (Outstanding), with specific criteria listed for each category to guide evaluators in providing accurate assessments. Respondents are asked to give an overall satisfaction rating and to specify the size and scope of their contract experience. Responses are due by March 06, 2025, highlighting the importance of timely feedback in the contractor evaluation process. This document emphasizes the USDA's commitment to ensuring high standards in service delivery through attentive evaluation of past contractor performance.
    The document outlines the Subcontracting Plan for the FNS Storage & Distribution Services, as mandated by the Small Business Act and the Federal Acquisition Regulations. It emphasizes the obligation of contractors receiving federal contracts exceeding the simplified acquisition threshold to support participation by various small business categories, including veteran-owned, service-disabled veteran-owned, HUBZone, and women-owned businesses. The plan requires contractors to establish specific goals and financial allocations for subcontracting within these categories for the contract period, including option years. Detailed sections guide contractors to describe subcontracting goals, methods of identifying subcontractors, indirect cost allocation, and methods to ensure equitable opportunities for small businesses. Additionally, provisions are included for compliance monitoring through periodic reporting, maintaining necessary records, and ensuring all subcontracts adhere to required clauses. The document serves to facilitate the integration of small businesses in federal contracting, ensuring their involvement is maximized throughout the contract execution process while upholding efficiency and compliance standards.
    The document outlines a solicitation for a contract targeting Women-Owned Small Businesses (WOSB), focusing on commercial products and services. It specifies details including the requisition and contract numbers, award date, and submission deadlines. The solicitation is governed by various regulations, with an emphasis on providing performance-based, Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contracts. These contracts will feature a one-year base period and four option periods, accommodating different task order types like firm-fixed price and labor hours. Key points include the request for quotes, delivery terms, and contractor obligations, such as returning signed copies of the document. Moreover, it emphasizes compliance with Federal Acquisition Regulations and eligibility under set-aside programs for economically disadvantaged women-owned businesses, small businesses, and others. The contractor must fill out specified sections to formalize their offer. The overall purpose reflects the government's initiative to promote diversity in contracting opportunities while ensuring adherence to stringent procurement processes. This solicitation is part of broader efforts to incorporate equitable practices in federal procurement.
    The solicitation 12-3198-25-R-0010 from the USDA's Food and Nutrition Service seeks proposals for Third-Party Logistics (3PL) services focused on the storage and distribution of varied food products. This Request for Proposal (RFP) is categorized as unrestricted and invites full and open competition, establishing a contract structure as an Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) type with a total funding ceiling of $250 million over its duration, which includes a base year plus four option years. The contractor must provide services encompassing transportation, receipt, storage, and distribution adhering to specified performance standards. The proposals will be evaluated based on pricing schedules outlined in the attached documents. The period of performance begins September 15, 2025, with all work being executed at the contractor's facilities and encompassing drop-off locations as well. The document details the payment process, performance evaluation, and contractor obligations, including requirements for insurance and adherence to federal standards for employment and operation. The overall aim is efficient food distribution programs supporting USDA initiatives while ensuring detailed accountability and regulatory compliance throughout the contract lifecycle.
    Lifecycle
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    Combined Synopsis/Solicitation
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    Cooked Beef And Pork Products for use in Domestic Food Assistance Programs.
    Agriculture, Department Of
    The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is seeking bids for the procurement of cooked beef and pork products intended for domestic food assistance programs, including the National School Lunch Program. This solicitation, identified as bid invitation No. 12-3J14-25-B-0129, requires that all meat be sourced from U.S. livestock and emphasizes strict adherence to delivery conditions, with a probationary period for new contractors. The procurement is classified under NAICS code 311611 and is set aside for small businesses, highlighting the USDA's commitment to fostering opportunities for these entities. Bids are due by January 27, 2025, with deliveries scheduled between March 1 and July 31, 2025. Interested parties can contact LaShawne Brown at lashawne.brown@usda.gov or Valerie Dinkel at Valerie.Dinkel@usda.gov for further information.