Questions and Answers 0001

U.S. Department of Transportation, Volpe National Transportation Systems Center

RFI-DOT-VOLPE-2026-001

Questions and Answers – Set 0001
Issued November 3, 2026
1. Question: Refurbished versus used boxcars: Is the government evaluating both options equally, or is there a preference for refurbished equipment that meets the specified remaining-service-life requirements?
a. Answer: The Government is open to either. At this time, we are in the market research phase and are evaluating options equally.
2. Question: AAR certifications: For the used-boxcar option, would the government clarify which AAR certifications and qualifications must be held by the supplying contractor or its subcontractors, as opposed to those specifically applicable to refurbishment or manufacturing activities?
a. Answer: For the used-boxcar option, the contractor/subcontractor does not need to be AAR M-1003 or AAR S-2034 certified. However, the contractor/subcontractor shall have the capability to perform tests required by AAR to ensure boxcars are compliant. See Section 6.4. of the RFI for additional details. 3. Question: Equipment sourcing: Would the government consider a contractor that does not currently own or maintain the required boxcars in inventory but has established industry relationships through which compliant equipment could be sourced following an award? a. Answer: Yes.
4. Question: Quantities and delivery: Does the government have an anticipated initial order quantity, preferred delivery schedule, or estimated delivery frequency? a. Answer: The Government understands that the RFI discusses quantities of up to 500 boxcars. We don't have an initial quantity at this time, but would like the boxcars delivered as soon as possible.
5. Question: Inspection and acceptance: Are there specific inspection, documentation, or testing requirements beyond the referenced AAR standards that respondents should account for when developing preliminary pricing and delivery assumptions? a. Answer: There are currently no specific requirements beyond the referenced AAR standards. Important requirements to note include wood floors and wood lined steel walls for both refurbished and used boxcars. Also, cars shall have all major systems functional including doors that are operable without the aid of mechanical assistance.
6. Question: Response deadline and submission: Would you please confirm the current RFI response deadline, including any amendments, and whether the government prefers one