Federal Supply Schedule
At the Busch Law Firm, we have many years of experience assisting clients traverse the muddy Federal Supply Schedule waters. Do you meet the requirements for these sought after GSA contracts? Keep reading to find out.
Federal Procurement
Anyone who thinks that government contracts is just the purchase of aircraft, missiles, satellites and other high profile military and
space equipment is wrong. Just like businesses in the commercial sector, the Government needs common everyday operational staples.
The Federal Supply Schedule provides a simplified process for companies to sell commercial supplies or services directly to government agencies. Under a Federal Supply Schedule, the Government can purchase these commonly used supplies and services in varying quantities at volume discounts through an expedited ordering process.
The Federal Supply Schedule process is a different competitive contracting procedure. Just look at the number of terms used to describe the program to see what we mean:
GSA Schedules;
GSA Numbers;
GSA Contracts;
Multiple Award Schedules; and
GSA Lists.
Given the number of terms for the Federal Supply Schedule, it is no wonder clients come to us with their arms up in the air!
Government GSA Contracts
These schedule contracts are unique and frequently misunderstood. This means increased compliance risks and challenges for most commercial items vendors.
Why GSA Contracts Are Sought After
The ability to provide supplies/services directly to government agencies, without the need of normal procurement procedures, certainly creates a profitable opportunity for you and your business. This is why the Federal Supply Schedule is the leading contract program for the sale of commercial items to the federal government.
Supplies and Services Available on GSA Schedules
The GSA Schedule includes a long list of acceptable supplies and services. Really, most any service provider or manufacturer/distributor probably offer items the Government needs. To give you an idea of what is commonly offered on the Federal Supply Schedule, here is a list.
Office supplies and equipment;
Tools and hardware;
Building and industrial materials;
Furniture;
Scientific Equipment;
Information Technology Products;
Vehicles and Support Equipment;
Appliances and Food Services; and
Law Enforcement, Fire, and Security Products.
The above is only a partial list of products and services the Government routinely buys as direct orders off schedule contracts.
How to Secure Government Contracts
Since the Federal Supply Schedule is a competitive contracting procedure, the Government has declared that any orders or contracts awarded under these procedures WILL result in the lowest overall cost alternative to meet the need of the Government. No further competition procedures are needed.
In other words, you need to offer the best price for whatever goods or services you offer.
Due to the structure of these schedule contracts, it is also important to know that pre-award pricing and post-award administration of orders are reviewed by the Government for non-compliance. Before the award of the schedule contract, you need to have the appropriate systems and procedures in place to comply with schedule requirements.
The Busch Law Firm provides regular assistance in all aspects of Federal Supply Schedule contracts, including:
Researching and drafting commercial sales practice disclosures;
Negotiating the terms and conditions;
Providing counsel on contract administration issues; and
Providing counsel on the Industrial Funding Fee, Price Reductions clauses, and other requirements.
Contact us on 303-904-9439 to learn more about these schedule contracts, which are multiple award, indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contracts, and how they may benefit your business.