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Response to Vendor Questions for RFQ 36C24126Q0485

Vendor Question 1: Whether the Government has identified an acceptable domestic (U.S.-manufactured) equivalent that meets all salient characteristics, and whether minor deviations (e.g., interior materials or compressor warranty) would be accepted under Brand Name or Equal.

Government Response:
At this time, the Government has not identified a domestic dual-temperature refrigerator/freezer model that meets all stated salient characteristics and dimensional requirements for CLIN 0002 and CLIN 0003. As stated in Amendment 0003, all offered products brand name or equal must qualify as Domestic End Products under FAR 52.225-1, Buy American Supplies.

Under Brand Name or Equal (FAR 52.211-6), the Government may accept equal products only if all salient characteristics listed in the Statement of Work are met. Salient characteristics are mandatory requirements, not advisory. At this time, the Government is not relaxing or modifying the salient characteristics, including warranty periods and material requirements.

Vendor Question 2: Whether exterior height and depth dimensions for CLINs 0002 and 0003 may be relaxed to permit Buy American-compliant domestic units, or whether a waiver/non-availability determination is being considered.

Government Response:
The Government acknowledges that several U.S.-manufactured dual-temperature reach-in units exceed the current dimensional specifications listed in the Statement of Work and may not fit within the space constraints of the requiring activity. These dimensional requirements reflect physical limitations at the installation site. At this time, the Government is not revising or relaxing the dimensional specifications.

The Government is currently reviewing whether the combination of Buy American Act compliance and the existing dimensional limitations precludes award. No determination regarding a waiver or domestic non-availability has been made. Vendors must ensure proposed units meet all salient characteristics, dimensional requirements, and all Buy American Act requirements.

Vendor Question 3: Whether the Government intends to provide site-specific clearance limits (door openings, ceiling heights, floor space).

Government Response:
At this time, no additional site clearance dimensions are being issued. The dimensional requirements provided in the Statement of Work reflect the maximum allowable envelope for installation.

Closing Statement:
The Government appreciates the vendors questions and participation. This amendment does not change any existing terms or requirements of the solicitation. All other solicitation terms and conditions remain unchanged.

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