Printing- 2026 Field Inspected Seed Directory

The contract involves the printing and mailing of 3,000 copies of the 2026 Field Inspected Seed Directory, with a delivery deadline of November 17, 2025. The work must adhere to detailed specifications, including specific binding methods—saddle-stitch for most copies and spiral binding for a subset—along with precise paper, ink, proofing, and finishing requirements. Physical proofs, including a color proof of the cover and a digital laser print of the entire book, are mandatory before final production, as electronic proofs are not accepted. The directories are to be mailed from Fargo, North Dakota, with mailing addresses applied directly onto the directories, which must be wafer-sealed and shipped bulk via non-profit mail. Any remaining directories after mailing are to be carton packed and delivered to the North Dakota State Seed Department. The contract emphasizes strict adherence to specifications, with no overruns or underruns permitted, and reserves the right for the State to reject non-compliant goods upon inspection at destination. Governed primarily by North Dakota state statutes and administrative codes, the contract does not incorporate federal FAR clauses. Bidders must be registered with the North Dakota Secretary of State before award and remain active throughout the contract period, with preference given to resident North Dakota bidders if practicable. The procurement process is based on a lowest responsible bidder approach, evaluating responsiveness to specifications, delivery capability, and price, with no weights or adjectival ratings assigned. Payment will be made via check or ACH after successful supplier registration, with the State exempt from sales and federal excise taxes. The bid response must be submitted electronically through the State Procurement Office portal by October 21, 2025, with up to five labeled documents allowed. The contract stipulates that all material and workmanship are subject to inspection, and goods failing to meet specifications may be rejected and removed at the vendor’s expense. Overall, the contract emphasizes strict compliance with detailed technical, delivery, and legal requirements, with clear procedures for submission, inspection, and performance.