Cardboard Pet Carriers

Hillsborough County is seeking qualified suppliers through an Invitation to Quote to provide ongoing and as-needed cardboard pet carriers over a two-year period, with an estimated contract value of $43,200.00. The solicitation, identified as ITQ-26-00305, was posted on June 22, 2026, and responses are due by July 2, 2026, submitted exclusively through the County’s Euna Procurement electronic bidding system. Proposals must include full offerings on all line items to be eligible for award, and the contract will be awarded to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder meeting all specifications. Carriers must be flat-packed with no inserts, constructed from at least 70% recycled corrugated cardboard with a minimum flute thickness of 4.36 millimeters, capable of supporting up to 15 pounds, and feature interlocking flaps. Ventilation requirements include specific hole counts on each panel and lid flap, all measuring at least 1/4 inch in diameter. Exterior color must be white, with bold printed text reading “I” MY PET” (minimum 2-inch font) on both long sides and a warning label reading “DO NO LEAVE ANIMAL(S) UNATTENDED IN CARRIER” (minimum 1/2-inch font) on the lid. Assembly instructions must appear on the bottom panel, and all shipments must be palletized with 500 to 1,000 units per pallet. Delivery is F.O.B. to specified locations in Hillsborough County—the Pet Resource Center in Tampa and Fleet Management in Plant City—with the vendor bearing all freight and handling costs. Goods must be delivered within 30 days of purchase order receipt. The contract is governed by Florida state law and includes mandatory compliance with federal and local regulations, including non-discrimination requirements under Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act, adherence to OSHA standards, and digital accessibility under the ADA and Section 504. Contractors must maintain a certified drug-free workplace as defined by Florida Statute 287.087, with preference given to certified vendors in the event of equal bids. Employment eligibility verification through E-Verify and Form I-9 is required, along with adherence to the IMAGE program guidelines. Insurance mandates include Cyber Liability, Professional Liability, Abuse and Molestation, and Motor Truck Cargo Liability, each with $1,000,000 minimum coverage. In