52.246-14 Inspection of Transportation
Source: FAR 52.246-14 on acquisition.gov
The Government reserves the right to inspect and test transportation services, facilities, and equipment at any reasonable time, and contractors must provide access and assistance for these inspections.
Overview
FAR 52.246-14, "Inspection of Transportation," establishes the Government's right to inspect and test transportation services, facilities, and equipment provided under certain freight transportation contracts. This clause is required in solicitations and contracts for freight transportation services by rail, motor (including bus), domestic freight forwarders, and domestic water carriers, but not for air or international ocean carriers, or services under specific bills of lading or reduced-rate arrangements. The clause ensures that the Government can verify compliance and quality at any reasonable time during contract performance.
Key Rules
- Government Inspection Rights
- The Government may inspect and test transportation services, facilities, and equipment at any reasonable time.
- Contractor Access and Assistance
- Contractors must provide free access, reasonable facilities, and assistance to Government representatives for inspections and tests.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must include this clause in applicable solicitations and contracts and ensure contractors understand their obligations.
- Contractors: Must allow Government access for inspections and provide necessary support and facilities.
- Agencies: Oversee compliance with inspection rights and ensure proper contract administration.
Practical Implications
- This clause protects the Government’s interests by allowing oversight of transportation services to ensure quality and compliance.
- Contractors must be prepared for inspections at any time and should maintain their facilities and equipment accordingly.
- Failure to provide access or assistance can result in contract issues or penalties.
As prescribed in 46.314 , insert the following clause in solicitations and contracts for freight transportation services (including local drayage) by rail, motor (including bus), domestic freight forwarder, and domestic water carriers (including inland, coastwise, and intercoastal). The contracting officer shall not use the clause for the acquisition of transportation services by domestic or international air carriers or by international ocean carriers, or to freight services provided under bills of lading or to those negotiated for reduced rates under 49 U.S.C.10721 or 1 3712 . (See part 47 , Transportation.)
Inspection of Transportation (Apr 1984)
The Government has the right to inspect and test the Contractor’s services, facilities, and equipment at all reasonable times. The Contractor shall furnish Government representatives with the free access and reasonable facilities and assistance required to accomplish their inspections and tests.
(End of clause)