13.303
Blanket purchase agreements (BPAs)
FAR 13.303 provides a streamlined framework for establishing and managing Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPAs) to efficiently meet recurring supply or service needs under simplified acquisition procedures.
Overview
FAR 13.303 covers the policies and procedures for establishing and using Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPAs) under simplified acquisition procedures. BPAs are flexible purchasing tools that allow agencies to fill recurring needs for supplies or services by setting up agreements with suppliers, streamlining the ordering process, and reducing administrative costs. This section details how BPAs are established, prepared, managed, and closed out, as well as the required clauses and review procedures to ensure compliance and proper use.
Key Rules
- General (13.303-1)
- Outlines the purpose and general use of BPAs for recurring needs under simplified acquisition thresholds.
- Establishment of BPAs (13.303-2)
- Specifies criteria and procedures for setting up BPAs, including selection of suppliers and documentation requirements.
- Preparation of BPAs (13.303-3)
- Details the information and format required for preparing BPAs, such as terms, conditions, and identification of authorized users.
- Clauses (13.303-4)
- Identifies mandatory and optional contract clauses to be included in BPAs.
- Purchases under BPAs (13.303-5)
- Describes ordering procedures, limitations, and documentation for purchases made under BPAs.
- Review Procedures (13.303-6)
- Requires periodic review of BPAs to ensure continued need, proper use, and compliance.
- Completion of BPAs (13.303-7)
- Provides guidance on closing out BPAs when no longer needed or at the end of their term.
- Optional Clause (13.303-8)
- Offers an optional clause for use in BPAs as appropriate.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Establish, manage, review, and close out BPAs; ensure compliance with required clauses and procedures.
- Contractors: Fulfill orders under BPAs as specified; comply with terms and conditions; maintain required documentation.
- Agencies: Oversee BPA usage, conduct periodic reviews, and ensure proper acquisition practices.
Practical Implications
- BPAs streamline repetitive purchasing, reduce administrative burden, and enable faster procurement cycles.
- Proper establishment and management are critical to avoid misuse or noncompliance.
- Common pitfalls include inadequate documentation, failure to review BPAs, and improper ordering outside BPA terms.