The National Research Foundation (NRF), through its South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) facility, has published a Request for Quotation for the provision of comprehensive shuttle services across its two major sites in the Western and Northern Cape.
Scope and Service Requirements
The appointed service provider will be responsible for 24-hour shuttle services, including scheduled weekly trips between Cape Town and Sutherland, as well as ad-hoc airport transfers and on-demand transport within South Africa. The core weekly trip departs from SAAO Observatory at 11:00 on Tuesdays, with the return journey from Sutherland at 11:00 on Wednesdays, arriving back in Cape Town no later than 15:30.
Vehicle Specifications
Service providers must ensure all vehicles meet stringent requirements:
- Not older than five years throughout the contract duration
- Equipped with air conditioning, power steering, central locking, airbags, and a functional GPS device
- Engine capacity of at least 1600cc for 4-5 seater vehicles
- Full luggage space available for passengers
- Comprehensive safety equipment: first aid kit, fire extinguisher, spare wheel, jack, reflector triangles, and seat belts for all passengers
Driver Qualifications and Conduct
Drivers must possess:
- Minimum two years’ experience as professional drivers with a valid unendorsed license
- Professional Driving Permit and certification in terms of the Road Traffic Act
- Ability to drive vehicles with tow bars and trailers
- Neat attire with company identification badges
- Compliance with all road rules, no smoking in vehicles, and zero tolerance for alcohol or drugs
- Reasonable English language skills
Mandatory Documentation
Bidders must submit the following mandatory documents:
- Signed and completed SBD 1, SBD 3.1, SBD 4, and SBD 6.1 forms
- Company profile highlighting experience in shuttle services
- Valid CSD registration (no award will be made without CSD registration)
- Proof of ownership or registration certificates for all vehicles
- Valid comprehensive insurance for each vehicle
- Public Liability Insurance cover
- List of drivers with certified copies of ID documents, Professional Driving Permits, and unendorsed licenses
- Three signed reference letters from clients within the past three years
Evaluation Criteria
The RFQ follows a three-phase evaluation process:
- Phase 1: Administrative compliance with all mandatory documents
- Phase 2: Specification evaluation and eligibility
- Phase 3: 80/20 preferential point system – 80 points for price, 20 points for specific goals
Specific Goals Preference Points
The 20 points for specific goals will be allocated as follows:
- B-BBEE Status Level 1-3: 8 points
- B-BBEE Status Level 4-6: 6 points
- B-BBEE Status Level 7-8: 2 points
- 51% Black-owned: 3 points
- 51% Black female-owned: 3 points
- 51% Black youth-owned: 1 point
- 51% owned by People with Disabilities: 1 point
- EME or QSE status: 4 points
Key Dates and Submission Protocol
- Closing Date: Friday, 04 September 2026 at 16:00
- Submission: Email to scm@saao.ac.za
- Validity Period: 60 days from closing date
- No briefing session will be held
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Contract Management and Payment
- Contract duration: 3 years, commencing upon signing of SBD 7.2
- Payment terms: 30 days after receipt and approval of invoice
- SAAO will provide toll fees, accommodation, supper, and breakfast for drivers on the Sutherland trip
- Driver’s lunch is the responsibility of the service provider
Contact Details
- SCM Enquiries: scm@saao.ac.za / 021-201-1634
- Technical Enquiries: Zinzi Mngqabisa – zinzi@saao.ac.za
Document Link:
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