6640--Rodent Caging System
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), specifically the Network Contracting Office 20 (36C260), has issued a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for a new Rodent Caging System. This opportunity is for the VA Portland Health Care System in Portland, Oregon. This acquisition is a Total Small Business Set-Aside. Quotes are due by March 10, 2026, at 1:00 PM Mountain Time.
Purpose & Scope
The purpose of this solicitation is to procure and install a new rodent caging system. The goal is to enhance animal and human health by reducing allergen exposure and improving air quality within the facility. The system must be compatible with existing Thoren cages and include an Avidity automated watering system, HEPA filtration for both air intake and exhaust, and meet specific dimensions and capacity requirements for housing laboratory rodents.
Key Requirements
- One (1) rat rack system with at least 80 cage spaces.
- Cage dimensions: 12.125"x12.125"x7.37"; Rack dimensions: Max 80" H x 72" W x 30" D.
- Must accommodate an Avidity automated watering system with current model lixits.
- HEPA filtration for both air intake and exhaust, with adjustable CFM (30-100 air changes per hour per cage).
- System must be mobile for cleaning and space utilization; cages must be easily broken down for cleaning.
- Rack constructed from stainless steel.
- Cages: Clear/light amber polysulfide, resistant to clouding/cracking, suitable for autoclaving up to 270°F.
- Cage wire lid must accommodate a 16 oz. bottle and a one-week rodent chow feed hopper.
- Filter cover cages suitable for approximately 200 autoclave cycles.
- Includes stainless steel vertical cardholders, energy-efficient HEPA Filter/Blower Module, Remote Adjustment Box, and Bracket.
- One (1) year warranty is required.
- New equipment ONLY; no remanufactured or "gray market" items will be accepted.
- Vendor must be an OEM, authorized distributor, or authorized reseller, verified by an authorization letter.
- All equipment must be covered by the manufacturer's warranty.
Contract Details
- Contract Type: Firm Fixed Price.
- Estimated Award Date: April 1, 2026.
- Delivery: 210-300 Days after receipt of order.
- Period of Performance: Estimated award April 1, 2026.
- NAICS Code: 332618 (Spring and Wire Product Manufacturing) with a 500-employee size standard.
- Product Service Code (PSC): 6640 (Laboratory Equipment And Supplies).
Submission & Evaluation
- Offers due: March 10, 2026, 1:00 PM Mountain Time.
- Questions due: March 3, 2026, 1:00 PM Mountain / 3:00 PM Eastern.
- Submission Method: Electronically via email to Nazanin Kreiner (nazanin.kreiner@va.gov).
- Evaluation Criteria: Award will be based on Low Price, responsiveness, and responsibility. Past performance will be evaluated.
- Required Documents: Quotes must include Parts I (Executed Request for Quote), II (Price Proposal), and III (Responsibility).
- Eligibility: Offerors must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM).