Transnet Freight Rail, an operating division of Transnet SOC Ltd, has issued a formal Request for Proposal (TFR/2026/05/0157/5886/RFP) for the provision of locomotive ablution facilities cleaning services. This strategic 36-month contract aims to maintain high standards of hygiene and operational readiness across key rail depots, directly supporting Transnet’s mandate to ensure efficient and safe freight rail operations in South Africa.
Scope of Services
The successful service provider will be responsible for the comprehensive cleaning and maintenance of locomotive ablution facilities at three designated depots. Key operational deliverables include:
- Execution of daily cleaning services at the Saldanha depot, Sishen TE depot, and Sishen New yard.
- Management of estimated cleaning volumes, with a guaranteed minimum of 11,263 units per 12 months and a maximum non-guaranteed volume of 27,062 units per 12 months.
- Adherence to strict quality assurance protocols, including daily evaluations by Transnet Freight Rail quality inspectors at the respective regional depots.
- Prompt reporting of any facility faults to depot Operations, while Transnet Real Estate retains responsibility for structural building maintenance.
Non-Compulsory Briefing Session
While attendance is not mandatory, a virtual briefing session is highly recommended for prospective bidders to gain a comprehensive understanding of the project requirements, safety protocols, and evaluation methodology. The session is scheduled for Friday, 30 October 2026, at 11:00 and will be conducted via Microsoft Teams.
Mandatory Compliance Requirements
To be considered responsive, bidders must submit a stringent compliance package demonstrating operational legitimacy and industry experience. Essential documentation includes:
- A valid Central Supplier Database (CSD) registration report reflecting an active MAAA status.
- A current SARS Tax Compliance Status (TCS) PIN.
- A valid B-BBEE certificate or sworn affidavit.
- Authenticated reference letters or copies of awarded contracts demonstrating previous work in general and hygiene ablution cleaning services. Note: Appointment letters alone are not acceptable as proof of completed work.
- Full compliance with Transnet’s Supplier Integrity Pact and Non-Disclosure Agreement.
Evaluation Criteria
Proposals will undergo a rigorous, multi-stage evaluation process. Bidders must first pass the functionality and technical threshold, which carries a 70% weighting. A critical component of this stage is the assessment of previous work done, where bidders must submit authenticated references to score up to 60% of the technical weighting. Qualifying bids will then proceed to the final stage, adjudicated on price (80 points) and specific goals (20 points) in accordance with the Preferential Procurement Policy Framework Act.
Related opportunity: ATNS Eastern Cape 5-Year Cleaning Services Tender
Submission Guidelines and Documents
Transnet has implemented a fully digital procurement process. All bid responses must be uploaded exclusively via the Transnet Digital Procurement System (TDPS) Supplier Submission Portal. Bidders are strongly advised to upload their submissions at least one day before the deadline to avoid technical challenges related to internet bandwidth or file size limits. The strict closing time is 16:00 on Friday, 06 November 2026. Submitted bids must remain valid for 180 business days from the closing date. For technical or procedural enquiries, contact Khathutshelo Tshamano at 011-584-0625 or Khathutshelo.Tshamano@transnet.net.
Prospective bidders can access the complete RFP documentation and annexures free of charge via the official National Treasury eTender portal:
- RFP for Provision of 3 Year Cleaning Locomotive Ablution Facilities
- MSA Draft and Other Conditions
- Health and Safety Requirements
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