Consultants are Client's representative.
Sometimes it is the Client who has preferred manufacturer's or subcontractors, and they tell this thru the Consultants.
The main contractor should have submitted your pre-qualification documents first to the Consultant which is the usual practice.
Correct me if i'm wrong, Letter of Intent is to let you know that you are shortlisted for the project and is somewhat considering your service, while Letter of Award tells you directly that you're already chosen(awarded) to do the project. just my two cents.