Request for Information: Food Storage Services

The Greater Chicago Food Depository is looking for third-party partners for potential dry, refrigerated and frozen food storage services.

The Food Depository is seeking a reliable, nimble and diverse local vendor partner for reoccurring storage services. Vendor(s) would be responsible for the safe storage of select food products at specified dates/times, able to grow with our needs and be flexible with real-time adjustments.

This is a request for information only and does not constitute a commitment that the Greater Chicago Food Depository will take procurement action in this matter. If interested in being considered, please submit the information below with the header ‘RFI Storage Response - [ENTER VENDOR NAME]’.

Information Requested

• Company Overview
  • History
  • Years in business
  • Location(s)
  • Certifications (MBE, SBE, WOSM, etc.)
  • Diversity initiatives
• Accreditation / Relevant Credentials
  • Exceptional third-party ‘Good Distribution Practice’ audit scores
  • Proof of insurance
  • Product quality guarantee
  • Food grade safety / storage qualifications (food defense plan, food certifications, proof of HACCP based food safety management system or equivalent, etc.)
• Service Capabilities
  • Product specialties
  • Storage types (dry, refrigerated, frozen)
  • Minimum and maximum capacity by storage type at a given time
  • Shipping hours / operation hours
  • Location specs (sq. ft., equipment available, etc.)
• Pricing
  • Pricing model(s), rates, and any fees (cost per pallet + fees for unloading/loading and/or missed appointment)
  • Any minimum requirements
  • Discounts based on timeframe, load volume, non-profit partner, etc.
  • Payment terms
• Process
  • Process overview (how to schedule, make changes, POC, etc.)
  • Online ordering system for direct logistics requests
  • Delivery windows
  • Lead time needed for schedule changes
  • Turnaround time for new appointment request
  • Average load time