Program: 259‐S

Term: June 1, 2015 to May 31, 2016

Title: SSA Booklets

BASIS OF

ITEM NO. DESCRIPTION AWARD UNIT RATE COST UNIT RATE COST 

I. ELECTRONIC PREPRESS:

(a) Trim/Page‐size unit produced from electronic file

..................................................per color/ per page 1,376 $3.00 $4,128.00 $3.67 $5,049.9

(b) Trim/Page‐size unit produced from camera copy

...................................................per color/ per page 112 $3.00 $336.00 $10.20 $1,142.4

(c) Adobe Acrobat PDF soft proof

.............................................per file 2 $25.00 $50.00 $27.54 $55.0

(d) Digital Color Content Proofs ................................................... per trim/page‐size unit 1,440 $2.00 $2,880.00 $2.55 $3,672.0

(e) Inkjet proofs (G7 profiled) ...................................................per trim/page‐size unit 48 $5.00 $240.00 $10.20 $489.6

(f) System Timework......................per hour 8 $85.00 $680.00 $91.80 $734.4

II. PRINTING AND BINDING:

(a) Saddle‐stitched/Paste on fold: Printing in two colors including binding......per page..

Makeready and/or Setup

(1) Format A 144 $25.00 $3,600.00 $54.57 $7,858.0(2) Format B 552 $30.00 $16,560.00 $54.57 $30,122.6

Running Per 1,000 Copies

(3) Format A 23,604 $1.70 $40,126.80 $1.79 $42,251.1(4) Format B 161,420 $2.15 $347,053.00 $1.82 $293,784.4

(b) Saddle‐stitched/Paste on fold: Printing in four‐ colors including binding.........................per page

Makeready and/or Setup

(1) Format A 24 $38.00 $912.00 $109.14 $2,619.3

(2) Format B 24 $42.00 $1,008.00 $109.14 $2,619.3

Running Per 1,000 Copies

(3) Format A 120 $2.30 $276.00 $2.40 $288.0(4) Format B 3,002 $2.90 $8,705.80 $2.53 $7,595.0

(c)

Application of Aqueous or Varnish coating in

addition to printing charged for under line item II (a)

or II (b).....................................per pageMakeready and/or Setup

(1) Format A 24 $12.00 $288.00 $14.28 $342.7(2) Format B 24 $14.00 $336.00 $14.28 $342.7

Running Per 1,000 Copies

(3) Format A 120 $0.20 $24.00 $0.30 $36.0

(4) Format B 3,002 $0.25 $750.50 $0.38 $1,140.7

GRAY GAPHICS

CAPITOL HEIGHTS, MD

INTELLIGENCER

LANCASTER, PA
Program: 259‐S

Term: June 1, 2015 to May 31, 2016

Title: SSA Booklets

BASIS OF

ITEM NO. DESCRIPTION AWARD UNIT RATE COST UNIT RATE COST 

GRAY GAPHICS

CAPITOL HEIGHTS, MD

INTELLIGENCER

LANCASTER, PA

III. PAPER: Per 1,000 leaves

(a) White Offset Book (50‐lb.) JCP A60........................

(1) Format A 60 $2.75 $165.00 $3.06 $183.6

(2) Format B 1,501 $3.15 $4,728.15 $4.45 $6,679.4

(b) White Offset Book (60‐lb.) JCP A60........................

(1) Format A 11,802 $2.95 $34,815.90 $3.33 $39,300.6

(2) Format B 80,710 $3.40 $274,414.00 $4.94 $398,707.4

IV. ADDITIONAL OPERATIONS:

(a) Banding with Kraft paper bands

.................................................................per 1,000 bands 4 $250.00 $1,000.00 $102.00 $408.0

(b) Shrink‐film packaging .............per 1,000 packages 128 $200.00 $25,600.00 $153.00 $19,584.0

V. PACKING AND DISTRIBUTIONS:

1 Bulk shipment (other than by mail):

(a) Packing and sealing shipping contaniers......per container 18,402 $2.00 $36,804.00 $1.28 $23,554.5

2 USPS Mailing, Small Package Common Carrier/Internal Distribution: (includes the cost of affixing address labels)

(a) Single and multiple copies in kraft envelope (up to 200 leaves).............per envelope...... 1,876 $1.00 $1,876.00 $0.51 $956.7

(b)

Single or multiple copies over 200 leaves, up 12lbs., in cushioned

shipping bags, or wrapped in shipping bundles(maximum gross

weight 40lbs.)......per bag or bundle..........

2,814 $1.50 $4,221.00 $0.77 $2,166.7

(c) Quantites over 12lbs.., up to 36lbs., packed in shipping containers (max. gross weight 40 lbs.)...........per container................................... 96 $2.00 $192.00 $1.53 $146.8

CONTRACTOR SUBTOTALS $811,770.15 $891,831.75 

TOTAL FOR ITEM III PAPER $314,123.05 $444,871.1

SUBTOTALS LESS PAPER $497,647.10 $446,960.64 

ACCELERATED SCHEDULE (10%) 10% $49,764.71 $44,696.06 

VI. PERCENTAGE INCREASE 10.00% $4,976.47 10.00% $4,469.6

CONTRACTOR TOTALS $816,746.62 $896,301.36 

DISCOUNT 1.00% $8,167.47 2.00% $17,926.03 

DISCOUNTED TOTALS $808,579.15 $878,375.33 
Program: 259‐S

Term: June 1, 2015 to May 31, 2016

Title: SSA Booklets

BASIS OF

ITEM NO. DESCRIPTION AWARD

I. ELECTRONIC PREPRESS:

(a) Trim/Page‐size unit produced from electronic file

..................................................per color/ per page 1,376

(b) Trim/Page‐size unit produced from camera copy

...................................................per color/ per page 112

(c) Adobe Acrobat PDF soft proof

.............................................per file 2

(d) Digital Color Content Proofs ................................................... per trim/page‐size unit 1,440

(e) Inkjet proofs (G7 profiled) ...................................................per trim/page‐size unit 48

(f) System Timework......................per hour 8

II. PRINTING AND BINDING:

(a) Saddle‐stitched/Paste on fold: Printing in two colors including binding......per page..

Makeready and/or Setup

(1) Format A 144

(2) Format B 552

Running Per 1,000 Copies

(3) Format A 23,604

(4) Format B 161,420

(b) Saddle‐stitched/Paste on fold: Printing in four‐ colors including binding.........................per page

Makeready and/or Setup

(1) Format A 24

(2) Format B 24

Running Per 1,000 Copies

(3) Format A 120

(4) Format B 3,002

(c)

Application of Aqueous or Varnish coating inaddition to printing charged for under line item II (a)

or II (b).....................................per page

Makeready and/or Setup

(1) Format A 24

(2) Format B 24

Running Per 1,000 Copies

(3) Format A 120

(4) Format B 3,002

UNIT RATE COST UNIT RATE COST 

$1.00 $1,376.00 $3.00 $4,128.0$1.00 $112.00 $1.00 $112.0$5.00 $10.00 $5.00 $10.0$1.00 $1,440.00 $1.50 $2,160.0

$10.00 $480.00 $8.00 $384.0

$150.00 $1,200.00 $60.00 $480.0

$21.27 $3,062.88 $15.00 $2,160.0$21.96 $12,121.92 $15.00 $8,280.0

$1.74 $41,070.96 $1.46 $34,461.8$2.15 $347,053.00 $1.46 $235,673.2

$30.63 $735.12 $13.25 $318.0$33.20 $796.80 $13.25 $318.0

$2.29 $274.80 $0.65 $78.0$2.73 $8,195.46 $0.65 $1,951.3$5.26 $126.24 $1.50 $36.0$5.26 $126.24 $1.50 $36.0$0.84 $100.80 $0.10 $12.0$0.05 $150.10 $0.10 $300.2

COLONIAL PRESS

MIAMI, FL.

NPC INC.

CLAYSBURG, PA
Program: 259‐S

Term: June 1, 2015 to May 31, 2016

Title: SSA Booklets

BASIS OF

ITEM NO. DESCRIPTION AWARD

III. PAPER: Per 1,000 leaves

(a) White Offset Book (50‐lb.) JCP A60........................

(1) Format A 60

(2) Format B 1,501

(b) White Offset Book (60‐lb.) JCP A60........................

(1) Format A 11,802

(2) Format B 80,710

IV. ADDITIONAL OPERATIONS:

(a) Banding with Kraft paper bands

.................................................................per 1,000 bands 4

(b) Shrink‐film packaging .............per 1,000 packages 128

V. PACKING AND DISTRIBUTIONS:

1 Bulk shipment (other than by mail):

(a) Packing and sealing shipping contaniers......per container 18,402

2 USPS Mailing, Small Package Common Carrier/Internal Distribution: (includes the cost of affixing address labels)

(a) Single and multiple copies in kraft envelope (up to 200 leaves).............per envelope...... 1,876

(b)

Single or multiple copies over 200 leaves, up 12lbs., in cushioned

shipping bags, or wrapped in shipping bundles(maximum gross

weight 40lbs.)......per bag or bundle..........

2,814

(c) Quantites over 12lbs.., up to 36lbs., packed in shipping containers (max. gross weight 40 lbs.)...........per container................................... 96

CONTRACTOR SUBTOTALS

TOTAL FOR ITEM III PAPER

SUBTOTALS LESS PAPER

ACCELERATED SCHEDULE (10%) 10%

VI. PERCENTAGE INCREASE

CONTRACTOR TOTALS

DISCOUNT

DISCOUNTED TOTALS

UNIT RATE COST UNIT RATE COST 

COLONIAL PRESS

MIAMI, FL.

NPC INC.

CLAYSBURG, PA

$2.00 $120.00 $1.76 $105.6$3.18 $4,773.18 $2.55 $3,827.5$2.34 $27,616.68 $2.45 $28,914.9$3.75 $302,662.50 $3.29 $265,535.9

$660.00 $2,640.00 $30.00 $120.0$133.45 $17,081.60 $90.00 $11,520.0

$1.00 $18,402.00 $1.50 $27,603.0$1.00 $1,876.00 $8.00 $15,008.0$1.25 $3,517.50 $0.35 $984.9$1.75 $168.29 $0.60 $57.6

$797,290.07 $644,575.99 $335,172.36 $298,383.95 $462,117.71 $346,192.04 

$46,211.77 $34,619.20 

5.00% $2,310.59 2.00% $692.38 

$799,600.66 $645,268.37 

0.25% $1,999.00 3.00% $19,358.05 

$797,601.66 $625,910.32 

AWARD
WASHINGTON, DC

www.gpo.gov 

May 6, 2015 

AMENDMENT NO. 1 RE: PROGRAM 259-S SPECIFICATIONS AMENDED 

Bid opening date remains May 20, 2015. 

On page 5 of 22 under SECTION 2 – SPEICIFICATIONS below QUANTITY 

Insert 

NUMBER OF PAGES: Approximately 8 pages up to 36 pages per order. 

Remainder of specifications same. Acknowledge on bid or amend bid by letter to U.S. Government Publishing Office -- 

Bid Section, -- Room C-161, Stop: PPSB, -- Washington, DC 20401, M/F: Program number, bid opening time and date. 

Failure to acknowledge receipt of this amendment, by amendment number, prior to bid opening time, may be reason for 

bid being judged nonresponsive. 

Authorized by: 

SCOTT J. BAILEY 

Customer Services 

Written by: dl 
Program 259-S Page 1 of 22 

Specifications by DLL 

Reviewed by SSA 

U.S. GOVERNMENT PUBLIISHING OFFICE 

 Washington, D.C. 

 GENERAL TERMS, CONDITIONS, AND SPECIFICATIONS 

 For the Procurement of 

SSA Booklets

 as requisitioned from the U.S. Government Printing Office (GPO) by the 

Social Security Administration (SSA) 

 Single Award 

TERM OF CONTRACT: The term of this contract is for the period beginning June 1, 2015 and ending 

May 31, 2016, plus up to four (4) optional 12-month extension period(s) that may be added in accordance with the 

"OPTION TO EXTEND THE TERM OF THE CONTRACT" clause in SECTION 1 of this contract. 

BID OPENING: Bids shall be publicly opened at 11 a.m., prevailing Washington, D.C. time, on May 20, 2015

BID SUBMISSION: Submit bid in pre-addressed envelope furnished with solicitation or send to: U.S. Government 

Printing Office, Bid Section, Room C-831, Stop: PPSB, 732 North Capitol Street, NW, Washington, DC 20401. 

Facsimile bids in response to this solicitation are permitted. Facsimile bids may be submitted directly to the GPO 

Bid Section, Fax No. (202) 512-1782. The program number and bid opening date must be specified with the bid. 

Refer to Facsimile Bids in Solicitation Provisions of GPO Contract Terms, GPO Publication 310.2, as revised June 

2001. Hand delivered bids are to be taken to The GPO Bookstore at 710 North Capitol Street, NW, Washington, DC 

between the hours of 8:00 am and 4:00 pm on business days and follow the instructions in the Bid 

Submission/Opening area. If further instruction or assistance is needed, call 202-512-0526. 

PLEASE NOTE: These specifications have been extensively revised. Bidders are cautioned to familiarize 

themselves with all provisions of these specifications before bidding. 

Abstracts of contract prices are available at http://www.gpo.gov/gpo/abstracts/abstract.action?region=Central

For information of a technical nature call David Love (202) 512-0310 (No collect calls).
SSA Booklets Page 2 of 22 

(259-S) 5/16 

SECTION 1. - GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS 

GPO CONTRACT TERMS: Any contract which results from this Invitation for Bid will be subject to the 

applicable provisions, clauses, and supplemental specifications of GPO Contract Terms (GPO Publication 310.2, 

effective December 1, 1987 (Rev. 6-01)) and GPO Contract Terms, Quality Assurance through Attributes Program 

for Printing and Binding (GPO Publication 310.1, effective May 1979 (Rev. August 2002)). 

GPO Contract Terms (GPO Publication 310.2) – http://www.gpo.gov/pdfs/vendors/sfas/terms.pdf

GPO QATAP (GPO Publication 310.1) – http://www.gpo.gov/pdfs/vendors/sfas/qatap.pdf

DISPUTES: GPO Publication 310.2, GPO Contract Terms, Contract Clause 5. Disputes, is hereby replaced with 

the June 2008 clause found at www.gpo.gov/pdfs/vendors/contractdisputes.pdf. This June 2008 clause also cancels 

and supersedes any other disputes language currently included in existing contractual actions. 

SUBCONTRACTING: Contract Clause 6, “Subcontracts” of GPO Contract Terms (GPO Publications 310.2), 

shall apply. 

QUALITY ASSURANCE LEVELS AND STANDARDS: The following levels and standards shall apply to these 

specifications: 

Product Quality Levels: 

(a) Printing (page related) Attributes -- Level II. 

(b) Finishing (item related) Attributes -- Level II. 

Inspection Levels (from ANSI/ASQC Z1.4): 

(a) Non-destructive Tests - General Inspection Level I. 

(b) Destructive Tests - Special Inspection Level S-2. 

Specified Standards: The specified standards for the attributes requiring them shall be: 

 Attribute Specified Standard 

P-7. Type Quality and Uniformity O.K. Press Sheets 

P-8. Halftone Match (Single and Double Impression) O.K. Press Sheets 

P-9. Solid and Screen Tint Color Match O.K. Press Sheets 

P-10. Process Color Match O.K. Press Sheets 

Special Instructions: In the event that inspection of press sheets is waived by the Government, the following listed 

alternate standards (in order of precedence) shall become the Specified Standards: 

P-7. Approved Proofs, average type dimension, electronic media 

P-8. Approved Proofs, electronic media 

P-9. Pantone Matching System color 

P-10. Approved Proofs, electronic media 

OPTION TO EXTEND THE TERM OF THE CONTRACT: The Government has the option to extend the term 

of this contract for a period of 12 months by written notice to the contractor not later than 30 days before the 

contract expires. If the Government exercises this option, the extended contract shall be considered to include this 

clause, except, the total duration of the contract may not exceed five (5) years as a result of, and including, any 

extension(s) added under this clause. Further extension may be negotiated under the "Extension of Contract Term" 

clause. See also "Economic Price Adjustment" for authorized pricing adjustment(s). 

EXTENSION OF CONTRACT TERM: At the request of the Government, the term of any contract resulting 

from this solicitation may be extended for such period of time as may be mutually agreeable to the GPO and the 

contractor. 
SSA Booklets Page 3 of 22 

(259-S) 5/16 

ECONOMIC PRICE ADJUSTMENT: The pricing under this contract shall be adjusted in accordance with this 

clause, provided that in no event will any pricing adjustment be made that would exceed the maximum permissible 

under any law in effect at the time of the adjustment. There will be no adjustment for orders placed during the first 

period specified below. Pricing will thereafter be eligible for adjustment during the second and any succeeding 

performance period(s). For each performance period after the first, a percentage figure will be calculated as 

described below and that figure will be the Economic Price Adjustment for that entire next period. Pricing 

adjustments under this clause are not applicable to reimbursable postage or transportation costs, or to paper, if paper 

prices are subject to adjustment by separate clause elsewhere in this contract. 

For the purpose of this clause, performance under this contract will be divided into successive periods. The first 

period will extend from the June 1, 2015 to May 31, 2016, and the second and any succeeding period(s) will extend 

for 12 months from the end of the last preceding period, except that the length of the final period may vary. The 

first day of the second and any succeeding period(s) will be the effective date of the Economic Price Adjustment for 

that period. 

Pricing adjustments in accordance with this clause will be based on changes in the seasonally adjusted "Consumer 

Price Index For All Urban Consumers - Commodities Less Food" (Index) published monthly in the CPI Detailed 

Report by the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

The Economic Price Adjustment will be the percentage difference between Index averages as specified in this 

paragraph. An index called the variable index will be calculated by averaging the monthly Indexes from the 12-

month interval ending 3 months prior to the beginning of the period being considered for adjustment. This average 

is then compared to the average of the monthly Indexes for the 12-month interval ending February 28, 2015, called 

the base index. The percentage change (plus or minus) of the variable index from the base index will be the 

Economic Price Adjustment for the period being considered for adjustment. 

The Government will notify the contractor by contract modification specifying the percentage increase or decrease 

to be applied to invoices for orders placed during the period indicated. The contractor shall apply the percentage 

increase or decrease against the total price of the invoice less reimbursable postage or transportation costs and 

separately adjusted paper prices. Payment discounts shall be applied after the invoice price is adjusted. 

PAPER PRICE ADJUSTMENT: Paper prices charged under this contract will be adjusted in accordance with 

"Table 6 - Producer Price Indexes and Percent Changes for Commodity Groupings and Individual Items" in 

Producer Price Indexes report, published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as follows: 

1. BLS code 0913-01 for "Offset & Text" will apply to all paper required under this contract 

2. The applicable index figures for the month of May 2015, will establish the base index 

3. There shall be no price adjustment for the first three months of the contract. 

4. Price adjustments may be monthly thereafter, but only if the index varies by an amount (plus or minus) 

exceeding 5% by comparing the base index to the index for that month, which is two months prior to the 

month being considered for adjustment. 

5. Beginning with order placement in the fourth month, index variances will be calculated in accordance with 

the following formula: 

 X - base index 

 ______________ x 100 = ___% 

 base index 

where X = the index for that month which is two months prior to the month being considered for 

adjustment. 

6. The contract adjustment amount, if any, will be the percentage calculated in 5 above less 5%. 

7. Adjustments under this clause will be applied to the contractor's bid prices for line items under III. 
SSA Booklets Page 4 of 22 

(259-S) 5/16 

The Contracting Officer will give written notice to the contractor of any adjustments to be applied to invoices for 

orders placed during months affected by this clause. 

In no event, however, will any price adjustment be made which would exceed the maximum permissible under any 

law in effect at the time of the adjustment. The adjustment, if any, shall not be based upon the actual change in cost 

to the contractor, but shall be computed as provided above. The contractor warrants that the paper prices set forth in 

this contract do not include any allowance for any contingency to cover anticipated increased costs of paper to the 

extent such increases are covered by this price adjustment clause. 

ASSIGNMENT OF JACKETS, PURCHASE AND PRINT ORDERS: A GPO jacket number will be assigned 

and a purchase order issued to the contractor to cover work performed. The purchase order will be supplemented by 

an individual "Print Order" for each job placed with the contractor. The print order, when issued, will indicate the 

quantity to be produced and any other information pertinent to the particular order. 

PREAWARD SURVEY: In order to determine the responsibility of the prime contractor or any subcontractor, the 

Government reserves the right to conduct a pre-award survey or to require other evidence of technical, production, 

managerial, financial, and similar abilities to perform, prior to the award of a contract. 

POST-AWARD CONFERENCE: In order to ensure that the contractor fully understands the total requirements of 

the job as indicated in these specifications, Government representatives reserve the right to conduct a conference 

with the contractor’s representatives at the Social Security Administration, Baltimore, MD, immediately after award. 

ORDERING: Items to be furnished under the contract shall be ordered by the issuance of print orders by the 

Government. Orders may be issued under the contract from June 1, 2015 through May 31, 2016 plus for such 

additional period(s) as the contract is extended. All print orders issued hereunder are subject to the terms and 

conditions of the contract. The contract shall control in the event of conflict with any print order. A print order 

shall be "issued" for purposes of the contract, when it is either deposited in the U.S. Postal Service mail or otherwise 

furnished to the contractor in conformance with the schedule. 

REQUIREMENTS: This is a requirements contract for the items and for the period specified herein. 

Shipment/delivery of items or performance of work shall be made only as authorized by orders issued in 

accordance with the clause entitled "ORDERING". The quantities of items specified herein are estimates only, 

and are not purchased hereby. Except as may be otherwise provided in this contract, if the Government's 

requirements for the items set forth herein do not result in orders in the amounts or quantities described as 

"estimated", it shall not constitute the basis for an equitable price adjustment under this contract. 

Except as otherwise provided in this contract, the Government shall order from the contractor all the items set 

forth which are required to be purchased by the Government activity identified on Page 1. 

The Government shall not be required to purchase from the contractor, requirements in excess of the limit on total 

orders under this contract, if any. 

Orders issued during the effective period of this contract and not completed within that time shall be completed by 

the contractor within the time specified in the order, and the rights and obligations of the contractor and the 

Government respecting those orders shall be governed by the terms of this contract to the same extent as if 

completed during the effective period of this contract. 

If shipment/delivery of any quantity of an item covered by the contract is required by reason of urgency prior to the 

earliest date that shipment/delivery may be specified under this contract, and if the contractor will not accept an order 

providing for the accelerated shipment/delivery, the Government may procure this requirement from another source. 

The Government may issue orders which provide for shipment/delivery to or performance at multiple destinations. 

Subject to any limitations elsewhere in this contract, the contractor shall furnish to the Government all items set 

forth herein which are called for by Print Orders issued in accordance with the "ORDERING" clause of this 

contract. 
SSA Booklets Page 5 of 22 

(259-S) 5/16 

SECTION 2 - SPECIFICATIONS 

SCOPE: These specifications cover the production of self- cover, saddle-stitched booklets requiring such operations 

as electronic prepress, printing in two colors or four-color process, binding, packing, mailing, and distribution. 

TITLE: SSA Booklets. 

QUANTITY: Approximately 5,000 to 750,000 copies per order. 

NOTE: The Government reserves the right to increase quantities shown above by up to 25 percent. 

 An occasional order may be placed for less than 5,000 booklets. 

TRIM SIZES: Various trim sizes will be ordered and paid for in their respective “Format” classification as follows: 

Format A: Any trim size up to and including 3-1/2 x 8” - Approximately 10 orders per year. 

Format B: Any trim size over 3-1/2 x 8” up to and including 5-1/4 x 8-1/2” - Approximately 30 orders per year. 

GOVERNMENT TO FURNISH: 

Platform: Macintosh OS X (or latest version), Windows 7 (or latest version) 

Storage Media: Files furnished via contractor-hosted SFTP server. 

 On occasion: CD-R/RW; DVD-R/RW; or E-mail 

Software: Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, Acrobat); Quark Express; Ventura 

Publisher; Adobe Capture; PageMaker; Corel Draw, or Frame Maker; 

All files will be created in current versions or near current versions of the above-mentioned 

programs. Files will be furnished in native application and postscript format, or as a PDF. 

 Note: All platform system and software upgrades (for specified applications) which may occur 

during the term of the contract must be supported by the contractor. The contractor must 

provide the upgrades within one (1) month of notification by the Government. 

Fonts: All printer and screen fonts will be furnished. If a PDF file is furnished, the fonts will be 

embedded. 

 The contractor is cautioned that furnished fonts are the property of the Government and/or its 

originator. All furnished fonts are to be eliminated from the contractor’s archive immediately 

after completion of the contract. 

Additional Information supplied: 

A visual of the supplied electronic files may or may not be furnished 

Camera copy for 5 x 3" unaddressed Postage and Fees Paid Permit Imprint label. 

PS Form 3615 - Mailing Permit Application & Customer Profile 

Small Package Common Carrier (SPCC) Instructions and Account Number 

GPO Form 905 - Reproduction proof, (R.6/03) with labeling and marking specifications 

Exhibit A: Barcode Marking Requirements 

Exhibit B: Blue Label Template 
SSA Booklets Page 6 of 22 

(259-S) 5/16 

Exhibit C: Certificate of Selection for Blue Labels 

Exhibit D: Yellow Label Template 

Exhibit E: Certificate of Selection for Yellow Labels 

Identification markings such as register marks, commercial identification marks of any kind, etc., except GPO 

imprint, form number, and revision date, carried in the electronic files, must not print on finished product. 

DISTRIBUTION DATA: SSA will supply distribution files meeting the following requirements: 

 SSA will transmit all distribution data electronically. 

 The compressed files can be opened using any modern Zip program. 

 The distribution files will be Comma Separated Values (CSV) file format. 

 Distribution files will consist of address data and quantity requirements for each address. 

 The CVS file may include a summary. 

 There will be separate files for domestic and international mail. 

 Non-contiguous U.S. addresses are considered domestic mail. 

 The government has the option to incorporate the Intelligent Mail Barcode (IMB) (for zip codes) into the 

distribution. 

 Tally of address quantities will be furnished with the print orders. 

NOTE: It is the contractor’s responsibility to write a program to produce labels from the supplied data files. The 

Government requires samples of mailing labels, for approval before release of the first print order. Contact person 

and details will be given at Post-award Conference. 

CONTRACTOR TO FURNISH: All materials and operations, other than those listed under "Government to 

Furnish," necessary to produce the product(s) in accordance with these specifications. 

The Contractor must be able to accept files electronically via a contractor-hosted Secure File Transfer Protocol 

(SFTP) server. Appropriate log-on instructions and protocol must be provided at time of award 

ELECTRONIC PREPRESS: prior to image processing, the contractor shall perform a basic check (preflight) of 

the furnished media and publishing files to assure correct output of the required reproduction image. 

This preflight must identify any problem areas with digital file submission and must include but not be limited to 

missing or damaged fonts, damaged disks, missing bleeds, improper trim size, and improper color definition. 

The Contractor is also responsible for creating or altering any necessary trapping, setting proper screen angles and 

frequency (unless indicated otherwise by the Government), and defining proper file output selection for the imaging 

device being used. All furnished files must be imaged as necessary to meet the assigned Quality Assurance through

Attributes Program (QATAP) level. 

Any errors, media damage, or data corruption that might interfere with proper file image processing must be 

reported to Paul Campbell, (410) 670-4588 (Video Relay Phone) by the following day of receipt of the files. 

When required by the Government, the contractor shall make minor revisions to the electronic files. It is anticipated 

the Government will make all major revisions. Prior to making revisions, the contractor must copy the furnished 

files and make all changes to the copy. 

All halftones are to be 150-line screen or finer. 
SSA Booklets Page 7 of 22 

(259-S) 5/16 

PROOFS: See proofing requirements as indicated on the Print Order 

PDF proof of ALL PAGES

Contractor to submit one “Press Quality” PDF “soft” proof (for content only) using the same Raster Image Processor 

(RIP) that will be used to produce the final printed product. PDF proof will be evaluated for text flow, image 

position, and color breaks. Proof will not be used for color match. 

E-Mail PDF Proof to: Paul Campbell (mail to: paul.campbell@ssa.gov). Follow up with phone call to 410 670-4588 

(Video Relay Phone) confirming receipt. 

Digital color content proofs for ALL PAGES 

Proofs shall be collated with all elements in proper position (not pasted up), imaged face and back, trimmed and 

folded to the finished size of the product. Proofs must be created using the same Raster Image Processor (RIP) that 

will be used to produce the product. Direct to plate must be used to produce the final product with a minimum of 

2400 x 2400 dpi. 

Inkjet proofs for ALL PAGES

Proofs must be G7 profiled and use pigment based inks. A proofing RIP that provides an option for high quality 

color matching such as Device Links Technology and/or ICC Profiles Technology, and meets or exceeds industry 

tolerance to ISO 12647-7 standard for Graphic Technology (as of 3/19/09 and future amendments) must be utilized. 

Output must be a minimum of 720 x 720 dpi on a GRACoL or SWOP certified proofing media. Proofs must contain 

the following color control strip to be evaluated for accuracy: IDEAlliance ISO 12647-7 (2009 or later). 

The make and model number of the proofing system utilized shall be furnished with the proofs. These proofs must 

contain all elements, be in press configuration and indicate margins. Proofs will be used for color match on press. 

Direct to plate must be used to produce the final product with a minimum of 2400 x 2400 dpi. 

Contractor may be required to submit ink draw downs on actual production stock of Pantone colors used in job. 

SSA reserves the right to make changes to all proofs. The Government may require one (1) or more sets of revised 

proofs before rendering an "O.K. to print". 

If any contractor's errors are serious enough in the opinion of GPO to require revised proofs, the revised proofs are 

to be provided at no additional expense to the Government. No extra time can be allowed for this reproofing 

operation; such operations must be accomplished within the original production schedule allotted in the 

specifications. 

If any Author's Alterations (AA's) require additional proofs, the Government will allow for additional time to 

process this additional requirement 

 See SCHEDULE: Page 15 of 22 

NOTE: When proofs are required the contractor must not print prior to receipt of an “OK TO PRINT.”

STOCK/PAPER: The specifications of all paper furnished must be in accordance with those listed herein or listed 

for the corresponding JCP Code numbers in the "Government Paper Specification Standards No. 12” dated March 

2011. 

Government Paper Specification Standards No. 12 – http://www.gpo.gov/pdfs/customers/sfas/vol12/vol_12.pdf. 

All text paper used in each copy must be of a uniform shade 

White Offset Book basis weight, 50 or 60 lbs. per 500 sheets, 25 x 38”, equal to JCP code A60. 

PRINTING: Booklets print head to head in two colors (black and a one Pantone color or two Pantone colors), or in 

four-color process. Pages may include halftones, graduated screens, line art or duotones. Match Pantone number as 

indicated on the print order. 
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Some orders will require application of an in-line flood coating of either aqueous OR non-yellowing varnish. If 

required, SSA will indicate it on the print order. 

Identification markings such as register marks, ring folios, rubber stamped jacket numbers, commercial 

identification marks of any kind, etc., except GPO imprint, form number, and revision date, carried on copy or film, 

must not print on finished product. 

PRESS SHEET INSPECTION: Final makeready press sheets will be inspected and approved at the contractor’s 

plant for the purpose of establishing specified standards for use during the actual press run. Upon approval of the 

sheets, contractor is charged with maintaining those standards throughout the press run (within QATAP tolerances 

when applicable) and with discarding all makeready sheets that preceded approval. When a press sheet inspection is 

required, it will be specified on the individual print order. See Guidelines for Contractors Holding Press Sheet 

Inspections (GPO Publication 315.3) dated August 2002. 

Press sheets must contain control bars for each color of ink on the sheet. Control bars must be placed parallel to the 

press’s ink rollers. The control bars (such as, BRUNNER, GATF, GRETAG, or RIT) must show areas consisting of 

3/16 x 3/16” minimum solid color patches; tint patches of 25, 50, and 75%; dot gain scale; and gray balance patches 

for process color (if applicable). These areas must be repeated across the entire press sheet. 

On four-color process orders with quantities greater than or equal to 50,000 copies: 

Unless waived by the Government, the Contractor will be required to print a small symbol within the trim area on 

each form/signature which will remain in position throughout the entire press sheet inspection and then be honed off 

or otherwise removed from the printing plate only after the color standard has been established and approved. 

NOTE: A press sheet inspection is for the purpose of setting specific standards that are to be maintained throughout 

the entire run. It does not constitute a prior approval of the entire run. 

At the Government's option, the Press Sheet Inspection may be waived. 

MARGINS: Margins will be as indicated on the print order or furnished copy. For the majority of orders, the first 

page/cover and the last page will bleed all sides. 

BINDING: Saddle-wire stitch in two places and trim three sides. Each product must contain complete 4-page 

signature after trimming. Single leaves connected with a lip (i.e., binding stub) to left or right side of stitches will 

not be allowed. 

NOTE: An occasional order (12 pages or less) may require paste on fold. 

PACKING: Shrink-film wrap or band in units of 100 or as directed on the print order. Bands will consist of strips 

of heavy kraft paper, approximately 4-1/2" in width, around the short dimension. Banding may not cause bowing of 

product. 

Bulk Shipments 

 Pack in shipping containers as indicated on the print order. 

 Each shipping container must not exceed 40 pounds when fully packed, unless specified otherwise on the 

print order. Pallets are required. 

 Chipboard or equal must be placed top and bottom to prevent bowing. 

Note: Chipboard or equal material will be placed on top panel (front) only (inside of the shrink film package), 

when requested by the agency on the print order. DO NOT place chipboard over the back panel of publication, 

which will hide any identifying label. 
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The contractor is responsible for proper packaging of all items shipped; additional packaging information may 

be found in the current version of the United States Postal Service (USPS) Domestic Mail manual. Pallets are 

required. 

CAUTION: All shipments, which fill less than a shipping container, must be packaged with materials of 

sufficient strength and durability and in such a manner that will guarantee that the product will not be damaged 

and the package will not open nor split when processed through the U.S. mail system or a small package carrier 

delivery system. 

Mailed Shipments 

 Insert single or multiple copies (up to 200 leaves) into kraft envelopes. 

 Quantities over 200 leaves, up to 12 pounds, must be inserted into cushioned shipping bags or wrapped in 

shipping bundles (maximum gross weight 14 pounds). 

 Quantities over 12 pounds, up to 36 pounds, must be wrapped in shipping bundles or packed in shipping 

containers (maximum gross weight 40 pounds). 

 A fiber-filled padded bag or any bag that will produce a powdery substance when torn during shipment or 

opening must not be used. 

LABELING AND MARKING: 

Labels must contain the appropriate Inventory Control Number (ICN) on all packages/containers going to the SSA 

Supply Warehouse. ICN’s will be provided with each individual print order. Affix Postage and Fees Paid label and 

a pre-addressed label to each unit of mail packaged in package/container. Contractor is responsible for duplicating 

original labels for each destination as needed. When duplicating is required, the contractor must indicate the 

quantity contained in each container on each label required for that particular destination. Labels must be completely 

covered with transparent tape. 

Unless otherwise requested, the return address on all envelopes/packages/containers should read as follows: 

Social Security Administration 

Attention: Warehouse Supervisor / SMT Team Leader 

Supply Building Warehouse 

6301 Security Boulevard 

Baltimore MD 21235-6301 

If Permit Imprint is used, the Contractor must print "Permit-Imprint" labels from furnished camera copy as 

necessary. 

If USPS Priority Mail is used, the package must be clearly identified/marked as “Priority Mail”. 

Barcode Marking Requirements 

The ICN, National Stock Number (NSN), Quantity Per Container, Unit of Issue, Revision Date, Department 

Requisition Number, and Print Order Number must be barcoded on shipping containers, using 10, (3/8”) high 

standard 3 of 9 (code 39) barcode system, for noncontact reading, in accordance with Mil. Std. 1189. In 

addition, the barcode must have a human-readable interpretation (HRI) printed above or below the 3 of 9 

barcode. 

See Exhibit A: Barcode Marking Requirements. 

Bulk Shipments 

Reproduce shipping container label from furnished repro, fill in appropriate blanks and attach to shipping 

containers. Material shipped to 6301 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235-6301, must be in cartons 

labeled with the number of copies and the ICN in addition to the standard GPO shipping label. 
SSA Booklets Page 10 of 22 

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NOTE: The destination address in the “TO” box does not have to be filled in on the individual shipping 

container labels when packed on pallets. In lieu thereof, complete filled in labels, the destination address must 

be attached to all four sides of each pallet. In addition to regular markings, include the “ICN (fill-in number)” on 

all labeling. 

Pack in shipping containers as indicated on the print order. 

 Each shipping container must not exceed 40 pounds when fully packed, unless specified otherwise on the 

print order. 

 Chipboard or equal must be placed top and bottom to prevent bowing. 

 Shipping containers shall have a minimum bursting strength of 275 lbs. per square inch or a minimum 

edge crush test of 44 lbs. per inch width. 

Caution: All shipments, which fill less than a shipping container, must be packaged with materials of sufficient 

strength and durability and in such a manner that will guarantee that the product will not be damaged and the 

package will not open nor split when processed through the U.S. Postal Service or a small package carrier 

delivery system. 

Pallets are required for bulk shipments. Each order must be placed and shipped on its own pallet. There must be 

no co-mingling of any other orders on a single pallet. 

The contractor is responsible for proper packaging of all items shipped. 

Internal Bulk shipments 

Individually prepare and label packages displaying the following zip codes. Place packages in containers 

according to the zip code, and ship as follows. 

Zip Code Ship To 

21235 Social Security Administration 

 2700 Lord Baltimore Drive, Suite 120 

 Baltimore MD 21244-2680 

21241 Social Security Administration 

 1500 Woodlawn Drive 

 Baltimore MD 21241-1500 

21215 Social Security Administration 

 6100 Wabash Avenue 

 Baltimore MD 21215-3757 

22041 Social Security Administration 

 ODAR Mail Center 

 5107 Leesburg, Pike, 2nd Floor 

 Falls Church VA 22041-3255 

DISTRIBUTION: 

Specific shipping instructions will be provided with each print order or transmitted electronically. The contractor 

cannot deviate from these instructions without first consulting and obtaining permission from SSA. The majority of 

packages will be shipped by Small Package Common Carrier (SPCC). The contractor may be required to mail/ship 

packages via SPCC or USPS to as many as 2,500 destinations. 

Note: The contractor is responsible for all costs incurred in transporting the printed materials to the post 

office or SPCC. 
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SPCC (Third Party Billing) 

Packages over 13 oz. and up to 499 lbs. are to be shipped by SPCC. The only exception is packages 

addressed for delivery to Post Office Boxes, APO/FPO’s, and U.S. territories and possessions. These packages 

will mail reimbursable USPS First Class/Priority Mail. 

The contractor will be responsible for providing the carrier the following: 

1. All packages addressed and sorted to meet the requirements of the SPCC. 

NOTE: Contractor may be required to apply special SPCC barcode labels. 

2. Separate common carrier pick-up records for each print order. The contractor must annotate the pick-up 

records with the requisition number and the print order number. 

3. A shipping manifest, which includes: 

a. The name of the contractor, the requisition number, the print order number, the common carrier 

account/shipper number 

b. A listing, which includes each addressee’s account number or office code (when provided on SSA 

supplied address labels), address, city, state, zip code, common carrier delivery zone, weight, and 

package identification number (if applicable) of each package shipped to each addressee. 

c. The listing must be grouped by pick-up, and each group must be identified with the pick-up record 

number. This number must correspond to the number on the form(s), which the contractor is 

required to obtain from the carrier for compliance purposes. The listing must be in either account 

number or ZIP code order within each group. 

d. The summary information for each group must include the total number of packages, total weight, 

and total shipping cost. 

The contractor will be required to ship via SPCC charging the cost to SSA's third party account number. 

Account information and instructions will be provided at Post Award. The contractor is cautioned this account 

is for “ground services” only. 

F.O.B. DESTINATION (Bulk Shipments and Internal Bulk shipments) 

Deliver f.o.b. destination to approximately six (6) addresses located within a 75-miles radius of SSA, 6401 

Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD area. Entrance to the receiving platform for each of the five (5) addresses 

has maximum height clearances and specific delivery times (Based on local prevailing time, on normal 

Government workdays). 

It is the responsibility of the contractor to provide shipment to the platforms as follows: 

1500 Woodlawn Drive, Baltimore, MD 21241 Clearance is 13’3” (8:30 am to 2:30 pm) 

6301 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235 Clearance is 13’6” (8:30 am to 2:30 pm) 

6401 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21235 Clearance is 13’3” (8:30 am to 2:30 pm) 

6100 Wabash Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21215 Clearance is 14’0” (8:30 am to 2:30 pm) 

2700 Lord Baltimore Drive, Suite 120, Baltimore, MD 21244 Clearance is 14’0” (8:30 am to 2:30 pm) 

1415B Magellan Road, Hanover, MD 21076 (no clearance is required). (8:30 am to 2:30 pm) * 

* Any deliveries to Social Security Administration, Receiving Clerk, Preston Gateway Warehouse, Preston 

Gateway Corporate Park, 1415 Magellan Drive, Building B, Hanover, MD 21076 must be driver 

assist/tailgate deliveries at destination. 
SSA Booklets Page 12 of 22 

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F.O.B. CONTRACTOR'S CITY

USPS Permit Imprint Mail 

The contractor will be required to mail/ship parcels via USPS First Class Mail rates for pieces weighing 

up to and including 13 ounces. 

Mail pieces addressed to the U.S. Possessions, USPS Post Office boxes, or APO/FPO’s weighing over 13 

ounces and up to 70 lbs. will mail by USPS “Priority Mail”. If USPS flat rate “Priority” envelopes are used 

the Contractor must use these appropriate sized envelope/container (fill to capacity). NOTE: USPS considers

mail addressed to U.S. possessions (e.g., American Samoa, Federated States of Micronesia, Guam, Marshall 

Islands, Northern Mariana Islands, Palau, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands, Wake Island, and Military Overseas 

Addresses (APO/FPO mail) Domestic Mail, not International Mail. 

If permit imprint is used, the Contractor must submit to USPS a completed PS-Form 3615 Mailing Permit 

Application and Customer Profile. The Contractor will be responsible for any application fee. 

The contractor will use SSA’s “Postage and Fees Paid First Class Mail” permit imprint mailing indicia on each 

mail piece. Each mail piece sent under this payment method must bear a permit imprint indicia showing 

postage is paid. Permit imprint indicia may be printed directly on mail pieces. Permit imprint mailings must 

contain at least 200 identical (in size and weight) mail pieces or 50 lbs. The contractor is cautioned to use 

the permit imprint only for mailing material produced under this contract. 

Permit imprint may not be used if the mailing is less than 200 identical (in size and weight) mail pieces or 50 

lbs. This mail will mail reimbursable USPS. 

The Contractor is required to obtain the maximum USPS postage discounts in accordance with the USPS First 

Class Domestic Mail automated and non-automated mail discount structure in effect at the time of the mailing: 

(a)Automation (5-digit); 

(b)Automation (3-digit); 

(c)Automation (AADC); 

(d)Automation (Mixed AADC); 

(e)Non-automation (Presorted); and 

(f) Non-automation (Single Piece). 

The maximum weight for automation rate letters is 3.5 ounces, but only 3.3 ounces for non-automation rates. 

The contractor is required to prepare First-Class Mail in accordance with appropriate USPS rules and 

regulations, including the USPS Domestic Mail Manual (DMM), Postal Bulletins, and other USPS rules and 

regulations in effect at the time of the mailing. 

Contractor will be reimbursed for all postage costs by submitting a properly completed Postal Service form (or 

equivalent) with the voucher for billing. 

USPS International Mail (Par Avion: 

All items mailed must conform to the appropriate USPS International Mail Manual (IMM), Postal Bulletins, and 

other USPS rules and regulations in effect at the time of mailing. All International mail must be endorsed PAR 

AVION or AIR MAIL as described in the USPS IMM. 

The contractor may use a rubber stamp to meet these requirements. International Mail return addresses must 

show in the last line of the address UNITED STATES OF AMERICA or USA, all in upper case letters. 

NOTE: The contractor is cautioned delivery addresses may contain mail addressed to U.S. territories and 

possessions (American Samoa, Federated States of Micronesia, Guam, Marshall Islands, Northern Mariana 

Islands, Palau, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands and Wake Island). This mail is considered Domestic Mail by the 

USPS, NOT International Mail. 
SSA Booklets Page 13 of 22 

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If the mailing meets the qualifications for International Priority Airmail (IPA), it must be processed through IPA 

in accordance with USPS rules and regulations in effect for IPA at the time of the mailing. To maximize postage 

savings, the contractor shall sort to the IPA Rate Group 1 through 15 levels. Pieces not qualifying for the IPA 

Rate Group Levels of discount shall be prepared at the Worldwide Non-presorted rate level and any remaining 

pieces that do not meet the IPA qualifications will be sorted by individual country rules according to the USPS 

IMM in effect at the time of the mailing. 

REIMBURSABLE FREIGHT 

Truck shipments for a single shipment or several shipments totaling 500 pounds or more are to be shipped by 

reimbursable freight (excluding bulk and internal bulk shipments) 

The contractor will be responsible for selection of carrier and must ship by the most reasonable method to insure 

prompt delivery and safe arrival at all destinations for shipments requiring Commercial Bills of Lading. 

All costs are to be billed on the contractor’s vouchers at the actual cost, which the contractor paid for these 

services. Shipments must be made direct to the destination(s) stated on the Print Order. 

DEPARTMENTAL RANDOM COPIES (BLUE LABEL): All orders must be divided into equal sub-lots in 

accordance with the chart below. A random copy must be selected from each sub-lot. Do not choose copies from the 

same general area in each sub-lot. The contractor will be required to execute a statement furnished by GPO 

certifying that copies were selected as directed. The random copies constitute a part of the total quantity ordered, 

and no additional charge will be allowed. 

 Quantity Number of 

 Ordered Sub-lots 

 500 - 3,200 50 

 3,201 - 10,000 80 

 10,001 - 35,000 125 

 35,001 and over 200 

These randomly selected copies must be packed separately and identified by a special government-furnished blue 

label, affixed to each affected container. The container and its contents shall be recorded separately on all shipping 

documents. 

All print orders require Blue Label samples. SSA will indicate on the Print Order if Blue Label samples are to be 

forwarded to the attention of the SSA Print Specialist. 

If Blue Label samples are not specifically requested on the Print Order, this means all or part of the order will 

contain a delivery to an SSA Warehouse facility. In this case, the Blue Label samples become part of the quantity 

ordered and placed at the end of the order (last carton) delivered to the SSA Warehouse. In either case, a copy of the 

PRINT ORDER/SPECIFICATION and a signed Government- furnished Certificate of Selection (GPO Form 917) 

must be included. 

See Exhibit B: Blue Label Template 

A copy of the PRINT ORDER/SPECIFICATION and a signed Government-furnished certificate of selection must 

be included. 

See Exhibit C: Certificate of Selection for Blue Labels 

QUALITY ASSURANCE RANDOM COPIES: 

In addition to the Departmental Random Copies (Blue Label), the contractor may be required to submit quality 

assurance random copies to test for compliance against the specifications. The print order will indicate the number 

required, if any. When ordered, the contractor must divide the entire order into equal sub lots and select a copy from 

a different general area of each sub lot. 
SSA Booklets Page 14 of 22 

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The contractor will be required to execute a statement furnished by GPO certifying that copies were selected as 

directed. Copies will be paid for at the running rate offered in the contractor's bid and their cost will not be a 

consideration for award. 

Business Reply Mail labels will be furnished for mailing the quality assurance random copies. The copies are to be 

mailed at the same time as the first scheduled shipment. A copy of the print order must be included. 

A USPS approved Certificate of Mailing; identified by Program, Jacket and Print Order numbers must be furnished 

with billing as evidence of mailing. The Contractor will use Federal Agency Cost Code 276-00099 on all mailing 

documents. 

CUSTOMER RANDOM COPIES (YELLOW LABEL): 

All orders must be divided into equal sub-lots in accordance with the chart below. A random copy must be selected 

from each sub-lot. Do not choose copies from the same general area in each sub-lot. 

The contractor will be required to execute a statement furnished by the agency certifying that copies were selected 

as directed. The random copies constitute a part of the total quantity ordered, and no additional charge will be 

allowed. 

 Quantity Number of 

 Ordered Sub-lots 

 500 - 10,000 10 

 10,000 - 35,000 15 

 35,000 and over 20 

These randomly selected copies must be packed separately and identified by a special government-furnished 

YELLOW LABEL, affixed to each affected container. The container and its contents shall be recorded separately on 

all shipping documents and sent in accordance with the distribution list to the address indicated. 

See Exhibit D: Yellow Label Template 

A copy of the PRINT ORDER/SPECIFICATION and a signed Government-furnished certificate of selection must 

be included. 

See Exhibit E: Certificate of Selection for Yellow Labels

MAILING/SHIPPING DOCUMENTATION: 

Upon completion of each order the contractor must notify the ordering agency (on the same day the order delivers) 

via email to Paul.Campbell@ssa.gov. The subject line of the email shall be “Distribution Notice for Program 259-S, 

Print Order XXXXX, Jacket Number XXX-XXX.” The notice must provide all applicable tracking numbers, 

delivery method, and title of publication. 

Within 72 hours of completion of the order, all supporting delivery documentation (i.e. shipping receipts and / 

mailing documentation) for each print order is required to be scanned and emailed as a PDF to: 

Paul.Campbell@ssa.gov. The Contractor must identify the program number and print order number in the subject 

line of all emails.

PAYMENTS ON PRINT ORDERS: 

After completing the required agency verification, billing invoices must be submitted by Fax or mail to the U.S. 

GPO for the processing of vouchers for payment. Billing and payment instructions can be accessed on our website 

by the following hyperlinks: 

http://www.gpo.gov/vendors/billing.htm and http://www.gpo.gov/vendors/payment.htm

If faxed, send the completed invoice to GPO utilizing the payment processing cover sheet. Access the following 

hyperlink for preparation instructions: http://winapps.access.gpo.gov/fms/vouchers/barcode/instructions.html 
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NOTE: Facsimile transmission should only be used when no samples are required with your invoice, otherwise 

payment will be held up while the invoice is returned to you for the required sample(s). 

If mailed, all voucher packages and envelopes MUST be mailed to: COMPTROLLER-FMCE, Office of Financial 

Management, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20401 

NOTE: Do not mail your invoice to any other GPO Procurement Office as this will delay payment. 

SCHEDULE: Adherence to this schedule must be maintained. Contractor must not start production of any job prior 

to receipt of the individual print order (GPO Form 2511). SSA will forward print orders and furnished materials to 

the contractor electronically (either FTP or email) or at the contractors expense using a SPCC. SSA will make the 

determination as to what method is required. 

Furnished material and proofs must be picked up from and delivered to: Social Security Administration, Office of 

Printing and Alternative Media Service (OPAMS), 1361 Annex Building, 6401 Security Blvd., Baltimore, MD 

21235-6401. 

No definite schedule for pickup of material can be predetermined. 

 If notified by 11 a.m., the day of notification of the availability of each individual print order and furnished 

material will be considered the first workday of the schedule. 

 If notified after 11 a.m., the schedule begins on the workday after the contractor is notified for pickup of 

material. 

Contractor to submit all proofs as required within four (4) workdays. 

Proofs will be withheld two (2) workdays from receipt by the Government until proofs are made available for 

pickup. NOTE: The first workday after receipt of proofs at the Department is day one (1) of the hold time. 

Contractor must complete production and distribution of up to 200,000 booklets within ten (10) workdays after 

receipt of an “OK to print” 

Contractor will be allowed one additional workday for each additional 200,000 booklets or fraction thereof. 

Maximum time allowed for any one print order not to exceed 30 workdays. 

Author’s alterations of a minor nature are anticipated and must be completed within the normal production schedule. 

Contractor will be allowed two (2) additional workdays for extensive author’s alterations and revised proofs, if 

required by the ordering agency. GPO reserves the right to determine what will be considered extensive. 

Approximately 10 percent or less of the orders placed under this contract may require a partial shipment in this time 

frame, or less. 

ACCELERATED SCHEDULE - PREMIUM PAYMENTS: Approximately 10% of orders will require the 

contractor to make complete distribution up to 200,000 book/pamphlets in five (5) workdays after notification of an 

O.K. to print. One additional workday will be allowed for each additional 200,000 book/pamphlets or fraction 

thereof. Orders requiring this accelerated schedule will be paid at the premium rate. 

Press Sheet Inspection 

The contractor must notify the U.S. GPO of the date and time the press sheet inspection can be performed. In order 

for proper arrangements to be made, notification must be given at least three (3) workdays prior to the inspection. 

Notify the U.S. Government Printing Office, Quality Control for Procured Printing, Washington, DC 20401 at (202) 

512-1162. Telephone calls will only be accepted between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., prevailing Eastern 

Time, Monday through Friday. 

NOTE: See contract clauses, paragraph 14(e)(1), Inspections and Tests of GPO Contract Terms (GPO Publication 

310.2, effective December 1, 1987 (Rev. 6-01)). When supplies are not ready at the time specified by the contractor 

for inspection, the Contracting Officer may charge to the contractor the additional cost of the inspection 
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The ship/deliver date indicated on the print order is the date products ordered f.o.b. destination must be delivered to 

the Baltimore, MD and Washington, DC destinations specified, and all shipments mailed/shipped f.o.b. contractor’s 

city must be delivered to the U.S Postal Service or picked up by the small package carrier. 

Unscheduled material such as shipping documents, receipts or instructions, delivery lists, labels, etc., will be 

furnished with each order or shortly thereafter. In the event such information is not received in due time, the 

contractor will not be relieved of any responsibility in meeting the shipping schedule because of failure to request 

such information. 

Contractors are to report information regarding each order for compliance reporting purposes and include date of 

delivery (or shipment if applicable) for proofs and delivery schedules in accordance with the contract requirements 

by contacting Shared Support Services Compliance Section via e-mail to compliance@gpo.gov or by calling (202) 

512-0520 or faxing to (202) 512-1364. Personnel receiving the e-mail or call will be unable to respond to questions 

of a technical nature or transfer any inquiries
SSA Booklets Page 17 of 22 

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SECTION 3. - DETERMINATION OF AWARD 

The Government will determine the lowest bid by applying the prices offered in the "Schedule of Prices" to the 

following units of production which are the estimated requirements to produce one year's production under this 

contract. These units do not constitute, nor are they to be construed as, a guarantee of the volume of work which 

may be ordered under this contract for a like period of time. 

The following item designations correspond to those listed in the "Schedule of Prices". 

Percentage offered for premium priced work are additional to the basic prices offered for units of work. Premium 

payments, when authorized, will apply to all items except Item III. “Paper” in the “Schedule of Prices.” 

When premium payment is authorized, it will be indicated on the print order. 

Failure of the contractor to deliver work at the time specified will result in disallowance of premium payments that 

were anticipated and the contractor will not list such items in his voucher. 

Bidders shall state the location of the plant from which this product(s) will be shipped. 

I. (a) 1,376 

 (b) 112 

 (c) 2 

 (d) 1,440 

 (e) 48 

 (f) 8 

 (1) (2) (3) (4) 

II. (a) 144 552 23,604 161,420 

 (b) 24 24 120 3,002 

 (c) 24 24 120 3,002 

 (1) (2) 

III. (a) 60 1,501 

 (b) 11,802 80,710 

 IV. (a) 4 

 (b) 128 

V. 1. (a) 18,402 

 2. (a) 1,876 

 (b) 2814 

 (c) 96 

 VI. (a) 10% - less paper 
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SECTION 4. - SCHEDULE OF PRICES 

Bids offered are F.O. B. Destination to 10 addresses in the Baltimore/Washington, DC area and F.O.B. Contractor’s 

City for all other destinations. 

Bids for each item listed in its respective format group, as defined in Section 2. - Specifications, must include the 

cost of all required materials and operations in accordance with these specifications. 

Bidder must make an entry in each of the spaces provided. Bids submitted with any obliteration, revision, or 

alteration of the order and manner of submitting bids may be declared nonresponsive. 

An entry of NC (No Charge) shall be entered if bidder intends to furnish individual items at no charge to the 

Government. 

Bids submitted with NB (No Bid) or blank spaces for an item may be declared nonresponsive. 

Bids for each "Format" shall be for any trim size up to the maximum trim size listed for each of the “Formats” as 

outlined in Section 2. - Specifications. 

The Contracting Officer reserves the right to reject any offer that contains prices for individual items of production 

(whether or not such items are included in the Determination of Award) that are inconsistent or unrealistic in regard 

to other prices in the same offer or to GPO prices for the same operation if such action would be in the best interest 

of the Government. 

All vouchers submitted to the GPO shall be based on the most economical method of production. 

Fractional parts of 1,000 will be prorated at the per 1,000 rate. 

Cost of all required paper must be charged under Item III. 

A charge will be allowed for each page, whether printed or blank. Unless otherwise specified, no more than one 

blank page shall be permitted at the end of the text. 

I. ELECTRONIC PREPRESS: Prices offered must be all-inclusive. One basic charge (either format A or B) 

will be allowed for each color on each printed page (face or back) of the product for line items I (a) and (b) only. 

(a) Trim/Page-size unit produced 

 from electronic file ........................................... per color/per page ...................................... $ ___________ 

(b) Trim/Page-size unit produced 

 from camera copy... ......................................... per color/per page ...................................... $ ___________ 

(c) Adobe Acrobat PDF soft proof ........................................... per file ...................................... $ ___________ 

(d) Digital Color Content Proofs .................... per trim/page-size unit ...................................... $ ___________ 

(e) Inkjet proofs (G7 profiled)... ..................... per trim/page-size unit ...................................... $ ___________ 

(f) System Timework ............................................................. per hour ...................................... $ ___________ 

Electronic prepress operations that cannot be properly classified under any other item shall be charged as 

"System Timework". Any charge made under "System Timework" must be supported by a statement outlining 

in detail the operation for which payment is claimed. In case of dispute, the contracting officer reserves the 

right to be the final judge as to the operations and/or number of hours chargeable under Item (f). 

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II. PRINTING AND BINDING: The prices offered must be all-inclusive for printing and binding (as required), in 

accordance with these specifications and shall include the cost of all required materials and operations, as 

applicable to its respective “Format” trim size group, as defined in Section2-Specifications. 

A charge will be allowed for each page of a single-color product, whether printed or blank. For products printing 

in more than one color, a charge under “Each Additional Color” will be allowed for pages actually printed with 

the additional color(s). 

 Makeready Running Per 

 And/or Setup 1,000 Copies 

 (Formats) (Formats) 

 A B A B 

 (1) (2) (3) (4) 

(a) Saddle-stitched/Paste on fold: 

 Printing in two colors, 

 including binding...... ............................. per page ................... $ ______ $ ______ $ ______ $ _______ 

 

(b) Saddle-stitched/Paste on fold: 

 Printing in four-color process, 

 including binding...... ............................. per page ................... $ ______ $ ______ $ ______ $ _______ 

(c) Application of Aqueous or 

Varnish coating in addition to 

printing charged for under line 

item II (a) or II (b)...... ........................... per page ................... $ ______ $ ______ $ ______ $ _______ 

III. PAPER: Payment for all paper supplied by the contractor under the terms of these specifications, as ordered on 

the individual print orders, will be based on the net number of leaves furnished for the product(s) ordered in the 

applicable "Format" group. The cost of any paper required for makeready or running spoilage must be included 

in the prices offered. 

Computation of the net number of leaves will be based on the following: 

Text - Each page-size leaf. 

 Per 1,000 leaves 

(Formats) 

 A B 

(1) (2) 

(a) White Offset Book (50-lb.) JCP A60 .............................................................................. $ ______ $ _______ 

(b) White Offset Book (60-lb.) JCP A60 .............................................................................. $ ______ $ _______ 

 

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IV. ADDITIONAL OPERATIONS: 

(a) Banding with kraft paper bands ............................ per 1,000 bands ...................................... $ ___________ 

(b) Shrink-film packaging .....................................per 1,000 packages ...................................... $ ___________ 

V. PACKING AND DISTRIBUTION: Prices offered must be all-inclusive, as applicable, and must include the 

cost of packing; all kraft envelopes, cushioned shipping bags, shipping bundles, and shipping containers; all 

necessary wrapping and packing materials; labeling and marking; and, complete distribution, in accordance with 

these specifications. 

1. Bulk shipments (other than by mail): 

(a) Packing and sealing shipping containers ............ per container ...................................... $ ___________ 

2. USPS Mailing, Small Package Common Carrier/Internal Distribution: (Includes the cost of affixing address 

labels) 

(a) Single and multiple copies 

 in kraft envelope 

 (up to 200 leaves) ................................................ per envelope ...................................... $ ___________ 

 

(b) Single or multiple copies 

over 200 leaves, up 12 lbs., 

in cushioned shipping bags, 

or wrapped in shipping bundles 

(maximum gross weight 14 lbs.) ................. per bag or bundle ...................................... $ ___________ 

(c) Quantities over 12 lbs., up to 36 lbs., 

packed in shipping containers 

(maximum gross weight 40 lbs.)... ..................... per container ...................................... $ ___________ 

Note: The cost of creating any barcode markings and labels shall be included in Items V. 1. (a) and/or V. 2. (c). 

VI. PREMIUM PAYMENTS: Premium payments, when authorized, will apply to all items except Item III. 

“Paper.” 

(a) Percentage increase ............................................................................................................... __________ % 

 

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LOCATION OF POST OFFICE: All mailing will be made from the ________________________________ 

Post Office located at Street Address__________________________________________________________, 

City_______________________, State________________, Zip Code________________. 

INSTRUCTIONS FOR BID SUBMISSION: Fill out "Section 4. - Schedule of Prices," initialing or signing each 

page in the space(s) provided. Submit two copies (original and one exact duplicate) of the "Schedule of Prices" with 

two copies of the GPO Form 910 "Bid" form. Do not enter bid prices on GPO form 910; prices entered in the 

"Schedule of Prices" will prevail. 

Bidder_______________________________________________________________________ 

_____________________________________________________________________________ 

 (City - State) 

By___________________________________________________________________________ 

 (Signature and title of person authorized to sign this bid) 

_____________________________________________________________________________ 

 (Person to be contacted) (Telephone Number)