QPL’s, QML’s, and QBL’s
Qualification and listing in QPLs, QMLs, or QBLs is a pre-acquisition process ensuring only compliant products, manufacturers, or offerors are eligible for certain government contracts.
Overview
FAR 9.203 outlines the process and requirements for qualification and listing in Qualified Products Lists (QPLs), Qualified Manufacturers Lists (QMLs), and Qualified Bidders Lists (QBLs). These lists identify products, manufacturers, or offerors that have demonstrated compliance with specific standards through examination and testing, typically before any acquisition action. The section details where specifications requiring qualified products can be found (such as the GSA Index and the DOD ASSIST website) and references key manuals and procedures for qualification. It also provides sources for obtaining relevant publications and instructions for qualification procedures, ensuring that contractors and contracting officers know where to find and how to comply with qualification requirements.