47.305-14
Mode of transportation
Solicitations should not restrict transportation modes or carriers unless program requirements justify it, and all specifications must be coordinated with the transportation office.
Overview
FAR 47.305-14 addresses how solicitations should handle the specification of transportation modes and carriers. As a general rule, solicitations should avoid specifying a particular mode of transportation or carrier, promoting competition and flexibility. However, if program requirements necessitate the use of certain types of carriers, the solicitation must clearly state that only offers using those carriers will be considered. Contracting officers are required to coordinate with the transportation office to obtain all necessary specifications related to mode, route, and delivery before issuing the solicitation.
Key Rules
- Avoid Specifying Transportation Mode or Carrier
- Solicitations should not dictate a specific transportation mode or carrier unless required by program needs.
- Exceptions for Program Requirements
- If certain carrier types are necessary, the solicitation must limit consideration to offers using those carriers.
- Coordination with Transportation Office
- Contracting officers must obtain all relevant transportation specifications from the transportation office.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must avoid unnecessary restrictions in solicitations, coordinate with the transportation office, and ensure any required specifications are justified and documented.
- Contractors: Should review solicitations for transportation requirements and ensure compliance if specific carriers or modes are mandated.
- Agencies: Must provide oversight to ensure solicitations comply with these requirements and that transportation needs are properly justified.
Practical Implications
- This section ensures fair competition and cost-effectiveness by preventing unnecessary restrictions on transportation modes or carriers. It also ensures that any exceptions are justified and coordinated with transportation experts. Common pitfalls include failing to coordinate with the transportation office or improperly restricting competition in solicitations.