Raymond Brand Name EASi Reach-Fork 24 Volt Trucks

The Social Security Administration (SSA) anticipates issuing a Request for Quotation to a single source, Werres Corporation, for two Raymond brand name EASi Reach-Fork 24 Volt Trucks with the following specifications: 3,000 pound capacity 43" baseleg opening 91" collapsed mast height 204" elevated fork height Forks, chisel type Forks, 42" Manual, operations/parts/maintenance Reverse steering Steered idler caster Battery, 12-H120-15, 24 Volt Hydra Saver Assembly, local dealer setup and preflight test (reverse steering) Delivery, FOB destination, is required no later than 90 days after purchase order award. Pursuant to FAR 5.102(a)(6), 13.106-1(b)(1) and 13.106-1(b)(3), the following combined brand name and single source justification is provided: COMPACT SIZE: The compactness and superior maneuverability of the Raymond Reach-Truck is particularly necessary in SSA's Supply Building and Operations Building loading docks and particularly in the Security West location. SSA's Security West Building in particular offers little space to operate and maneuver a reach truck. Currently, other brand name reach trucks are not being used because they are more difficult and less desirable to operate. MAINTENANCE FREE BATTERIES: The EASi Reach-Fork 24 Volt Truck with a 3,000 pound capacity is unique with regards to the 24 volt batteries which only requiring watering several times a year, making them practically maintenance free. SSA's experience with other brands of reach trucks is frequent replacement of dead batteries (approximately $2,500 per battery), rendering the material handling equipment excessively idle and more costly. MAINTENANCE: Werres Corporation currently holds a five-year mechanic handling equipment maintenance contract with the SSA. Werres' service technicians carry most Raymond parts on-site and are certified annually by Raymond Corporation which provides effective, efficient and prompt problem diagnosis and remedies. SAFETY: SSA personnel are familiar with and are fully trained and certified in the operation of Raymond material handling equipment. The brand name circumstances described above deem only one source, Werres Corporation, reasonable available. Werres Corporation is the only authorized distributor of Raymond brand equipment in the local area. SSA anticipates release of the Request for Quoatation (SSA-RFQ-07-1771) on or about April 30, 2008. A statement challenging the above combined brand name and single source justification accompanied by a capability statement providing that a particular brand name other than Raymond and/or a firm other than Werres Corporation can meet the Government's requirements must be received by email to bridget.hamel@ssa.gov no later than noon, local prevailing time, April 30, 2008. All questions must be submitted in writing via e-mail to bridget.hamel@ssa.gov. NO PHONE CALLS WILL BE ACCEPTED. E-mail communications shall include company name, address, point of contact, e-mail address, phone and fax numbers.