13.302
Purchase orders
FAR 13.302 establishes clear procedures for issuing, modifying, and managing purchase orders under Simplified Acquisition Procedures, ensuring compliance and efficiency in small federal purchases.
Overview
FAR 13.302 outlines the requirements and procedures for issuing, managing, and modifying purchase orders under the Simplified Acquisition Procedures (SAP). It covers general rules for purchase orders, the use of unpriced purchase orders, obtaining contractor acceptance, modifying orders, and procedures for termination or cancellation. The section also addresses the clauses that must be included in purchase orders. The goal is to streamline small purchases while ensuring proper documentation, contractor agreement, and compliance with federal regulations.
Key Rules
- General Requirements for Purchase Orders
- Purchase orders must clearly describe the supplies or services, terms, and conditions, and are used for simplified acquisitions.
- Unpriced Purchase Orders
- Unpriced purchase orders may be issued when it is impractical to obtain pricing in advance, but must include a not-to-exceed price and be finalized promptly.
- Contractor Acceptance and Modifications
- Contractor acceptance is required for purchase orders to become binding, and modifications must be documented and agreed upon by both parties.
- Termination or Cancellation
- Procedures are provided for terminating or canceling purchase orders, including notification and documentation requirements.
- Required Clauses
- Specific FAR clauses must be included in purchase orders to ensure compliance with federal acquisition regulations.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must issue, modify, and terminate purchase orders in accordance with FAR 13.302, obtain contractor acceptance, and ensure required clauses are included.
- Contractors: Must review, accept, and comply with the terms of purchase orders, and respond to modifications or terminations as required.
- Agencies: Oversee compliance with SAP and maintain records of purchase order actions.
Practical Implications
- FAR 13.302 exists to facilitate efficient, compliant small purchases by federal agencies.
- It impacts daily contracting by providing clear steps for issuing and managing purchase orders, reducing administrative burden while maintaining accountability.
- Common pitfalls include failing to obtain contractor acceptance, omitting required clauses, or not properly documenting modifications or terminations.