How to bid on Insulated Hot and Pass-Through Boxes for Memphis-Shelby County Schools

What Memphis-Shelby County Schools is buying

Memphis-Shelby County Schools is looking for vendors to supply insulated single hot boxes and insulated pass-through boxes. This is an Invitation for Bids (IFB) for equipment, meaning the school district is seeking competitive pricing for specific items.

This opportunity is relevant for businesses that can provide commercial-grade insulated food service equipment. Winning this bid could establish your company as a supplier for a large school district.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

The deadline for submitting bids for solicitation number 2362MT is September 17, 2026, at 12:00 PM ET (11:00 AM Central time). All responses must be submitted by this exact date and time.

Late submissions will not be accepted. It is crucial to allow ample time for registration on the vendor portal and for the submission process to avoid any last-minute issues.

Who this opportunity suits

This bid is suitable for businesses specializing in the sale and distribution of commercial kitchen equipment, particularly insulated food transport and holding units. Firms with experience supplying educational institutions or large-scale food service operations will find this opportunity aligns with their expertise.

The category for this solicitation is equipment, specifically insulated hot boxes and pass-through boxes. Vendors should be able to meet the specifications outlined in the bid documents.

How to respond to IFB 2362MT

To access the bid documents, you will need to go to the Memphis-Shelby County Schools Bids & RFPs page. The bid documents, including specifications, addenda, and any question-and-answer sheets, are posted directly on this page.

Bids are issued and received through the district's IonWave vendor portal. Vendor registration on this portal is free. You must register on the IonWave portal to submit your bid. Follow the instructions in the solicitation exactly for submission before the deadline. If you are already registered and did not receive a notice, you can contact Procurement at 901-416-5376.

Tips for a competitive response

Carefully review all bid documents, including any specifications, addenda, and Q&A sheets. Ensure your proposed products meet all stated requirements precisely. Any deviation could lead to your bid being disqualified.

Pay close attention to the submission instructions on the IonWave portal. Confirm that all required forms are completed accurately and all necessary attachments are included. Double-check the deadline and time, remembering it is Central time, and submit your bid well in advance to prevent any technical difficulties.

Ensure your pricing is competitive while still allowing for a reasonable profit margin. For equipment bids, agencies often prioritize the best value, which includes both price and adherence to specifications.