Betterbuilt R640 Series Cart and Utensil Washer, Name Brand or Equal

The Department of Veterans Affairs, through its Network Contracting Office 20 located in Vancouver, Washington, has issued a Sources Sought Notice (Solicitation Number 36C26026Q0346) for market research purposes to identify qualified vendors capable of supplying, installing, training, and maintaining a Betterbuilt R640 Series Cart and Utensil Washer or an equivalent product. This effort targets vendors compliant with NAICS code 333310 (Commercial and Service Industry Machinery) and holding a Small Business Administration size standard not exceeding 1,250 employees. The procurement is intended for the Portland Health Care System Food and Nutrition Department in Portland, Oregon, and includes the requirement for onsite training, assembly, scheduled maintenance, and operator instruction directly at the site. Responses are due by 2:00 PM Eastern Time on May 15, 2026, and must be submitted exclusively via email using a provided Excel spreadsheet template, with no telephone or fax submissions accepted. This notice is not a solicitation or request for quotes and does not obligate the government to award a contract. It emphasizes gathering market information regarding potential sources and their capabilities, including SBA size classification. The equipment specifications include features such as stainless steel construction, multiple sizes of carts compatible with the washer, water conservation measures, and accessibility options like a pit-mounted design with ramp access. Optional features under consideration include seismic anchoring, spray system upgrades, and control system enhancements. While pricing, performance evaluation criteria, and contract clauses have not been established or disclosed, vendors must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) to be considered. Contracting contacts are Freida McClain and James Harris, both reachable by email. The exercise of contract options and potential subcontracting disclosures are anticipated in the eventual solicitation. The contractual process remains in its market research phase, with no current payment, inspection, or shipping logistics formally defined beyond the site of performance at the VA Portland Health Care System.