4.1007
Solicitation alternative line item proposal
Solicitations must be flexible to allow offerors to propose alternative line items when standard units of measure do not fit their delivery capabilities.
Overview
FAR 4.1007 instructs contracting professionals to structure solicitations in a way that allows offerors to propose alternative line items. This is particularly relevant when the standard unit of measure (such as kit, set, or lot) may not align with the offeror's ability to deliver all items in a single shipment. The regulation references additional guidance in FAR 4.1008 and the solicitation provision at 52.212-1(e), emphasizing flexibility in solicitation design to accommodate practical delivery and packaging constraints.
Key Rules
- Solicitation Structure
- Solicitations should be designed to permit offerors to propose alternative line items, especially when standard units of measure may not be practical for delivery.
- Reference to Related Provisions
- Contracting officers should consult FAR 4.1008 and include the relevant solicitation provision (52.212-1(e)) for further guidance on alternative line item proposals.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must structure solicitations to allow for alternative line item proposals and reference applicable FAR provisions.
- Contractors: Should review solicitation instructions and propose alternative line items when standard units of measure do not fit their delivery capabilities.
- Agencies: Should ensure solicitations are flexible and compliant with FAR requirements for line item structuring.
Practical Implications
- This section exists to provide flexibility in procurement, ensuring that solicitations do not inadvertently exclude capable offerors due to rigid line item structures.
- It impacts daily contracting by requiring careful consideration of how goods and services are packaged and delivered.
- Common pitfalls include failing to allow for alternative proposals, which can limit competition or result in impractical contract requirements.