47.202
Presolicitation planning
Early planning for wage determinations and inspections is essential to ensure timely and compliant transportation service acquisitions.
Overview
FAR 47.202 outlines the presolicitation planning requirements for contracting officers involved in acquiring transportation or transportation-related services. The section emphasizes the importance of informing relevant activities about necessary lead times and compliance steps before issuing solicitations. This includes obtaining required wage determinations under the Service Contract Labor Standards statute for contracts exceeding $2,500, allowing time for site inspections by prospective offerors, and potentially arranging for agency inspections of contractor facilities and equipment. The goal is to ensure all regulatory and practical requirements are addressed early in the acquisition process to avoid delays and ensure compliance.
Key Rules
- Wage Determination Requirement
- For contracts over $2,500 subject to the Service Contract Labor Standards statute, a wage determination must be obtained from SAM.gov or via the e98 process before solicitation or negotiations begin.
- Site Inspection Opportunity
- Solicitations may need to allow time for prospective offerors to inspect origin and destination locations.
- Agency Inspection of Contractor Facilities
- There may be a need for agency personnel to inspect prospective contractor facilities and equipment before contract award.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must inform acquiring activities of lead-time requirements, ensure wage determinations are obtained, and coordinate necessary inspections.
- Contractors: Should be prepared for site and facility inspections and comply with wage determination requirements.
- Agencies: Oversee compliance with labor standards and inspection protocols.
Practical Implications
- This section ensures that all necessary steps, especially those with significant lead times, are planned for early in the acquisition process.
- Failure to obtain wage determinations or allow for inspections can delay contract awards or result in non-compliance.
- Contractors should anticipate and prepare for these requirements to remain competitive and compliant.