Automotive Express Desk

What is the Express Desk?

The Express Desk processes vehicle orders for government agencies with urgent requirements. Agencies must justify the urgent and compelling reasons for using the Express Desk instead of waiting for the normal procurement cycle and delivery time to take place.

Prices will generally be higher than the established contract prices because the vehicles are purchased from a dealership and not directly from the manufacturer. 

To place an Express Desk order:

Email your completed GSA Form 1781 to vehicle.buying@gsa.gov. All Form 1781’s must be accompanied by a justification specifying the urgent and compelling reasons for using the Express Desk. Agencies should include the words “Express Desk Order” on a fax cover sheet.

Rules and guidelines governing the Express Desk:

• GSA is the mandatory source for non-tactical vehicles.
• GSA by regulation MUST seek three sources of competition for the procurement.
• GSA encourages customers to recommend the names of dealers within the delivery area to be solicited by GSA. Please advise GSA of the names, addresses, phone numbers and dealer contacts with the requisition. There is no guarantee that a suggested source will receive a contract award.
• Customers should NOT negotiate terms and conditions with a potential contractor prior to sending in a requisition to GSA.
• After being advised by GSA about the price and any exceptions or clarifications covering the vehicle(s) solicited, agencies must expedite final decisions. Dealers will generally not hold vehicle(s) more than 48 hours.
• The government's payment terms are always NET 30 days upon receipt of a proper invoice.
• The GSA surcharge for Express Desk orders is one percent, except during August through September, when the surcharge is five percent.