FSA/ARC/PLC POSTCARDS

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This document is a solicitation for the procurement of FSA/ARC/PLC POSTCARDS, specifically "FSA/ARC/PLC LETTERS." The estimated quantity is 3,753,960 address records, with a size of 4 x 6 inches.

• Production of 4-color process postcards with line matter and illustrations.

• Contractor must create bleeds and match a sample.

• The face of the postcard will contain the agency-paid mailing permit.

• Postcards will include a return address and a TO: address, each with approximately 4 lines of black type.

• Imaging must be done using laser imaging or high-quality ink jet (minimum 240 x 240 dpi).

• Personalization for variable data is required.

• Extensive list processing is required, including exporting and re-importing data for postal software, and ensuring accuracy.

• Compliance with U.S. Postal Service regulations for "Domestic Mail" and "International Mail" is mandatory.

• Contractor must achieve the lowest First-Class Mail rate.

• Mailings must be prepared to maximize presort discounts and comply with USPS mailing requirements for automation compatible mail.

• Contractor must use CASS certified software for address hygiene and PAVE certified software for presort accuracy.

• Contractor must use USPS NCOA Link file via a Full Service Provider for USPS move requirements.

• Contractor's software must correct addresses, standardize abbreviations, add ZIP+4 codes and barcodes.

• Contractor's software must be CASS certified through NCOA at least three times per year.

• USPS screening for deliverability must be performed prior to mailing.

• Undeliverable addresses must be identified and reported.

• Contractor must maintain 100% accountability for imaging and mailing accuracy.

• No missing, duplicate, or mis-imaged pieces are allowed.

• Makeready/defective copies must be shredded and discarded.

• Ink: 4-color process.

• Stock: Dull-Coated Cover, 80 lbs. basis weight (20 x 26"), equal to JCP L60, meeting USPS DMM specifications.

• Proofs: E-mailed electronic page proofs (5 samples) are required for content evaluation (not color match). A "Press Quality" PDF soft proof is also required.

• Distribution: Notification of shipment to agency and delivery to GPO is required via email.

• The contract will be subject to GPO Contract Terms (GPO Publication 310.2) and GPO Contract Terms, Quality Assurance Through Attributes Program for Printing and Binding (GPO Publication 310.1).

• The predominant production function is printing and may NOT be subcontracted.

• This is a time-critical order; schedule extensions do not apply.

• The Purchase Order and Government Furnished Material (GFM) will be available via e-mail and Agency site no later than May 5, 2026.

• F.O.B. Contractor's city/origin.

• Bids must be emailed to bids@gpo.gov.

• The Jacket Number and bid opening date must be specified in the subject line of the emailed bid submission.

• Bids received after the bid opening date and time will not be considered.

• Bid opening is virtually at 11:00 AM ET on May 4, 2026. Interested parties must email bids@gpo.gov one hour prior to request a Microsoft Teams live stream link.

• The bidder must fill out, sign/initial Page 7.

• Offers must include the cost of all materials and operations for the total quantity ordered.

• Additional rates for additional quantities must be based on a continuing run.

• Pre-award survey may be conducted to determine contractor responsibility, including financial review.

• Apparent low vendor must show ability to produce the product and may be asked to supply samples.

• Bid acceptance period is 60 calendar days (unless otherwise specified).

• None specified in the provided pages.

• Government to Furnish (GFM): Artwork files will be provided via USDA CloudVault or Contractor FTP. Contractor must convert color to black/grayscale, rotate pages, and add blanks as needed.

• Contractor can download "Labeling and Marking Specifications" form (GPO Form 905, R. 7-15) from gpo.gov.

• Privacy Act notification is included, requiring compliance with the Privacy Act of 1974 if systems of records on individuals are involved.

• Schedule: Contractor to submit proofs by May 11, 2026. Mail complete on or before June 1, 2026.