Sealed Bidding

Sealed bidding is a method of contracting that employs competitive bids, the public opening of bids, and awards.  The steps involve preparation of invitations for bids, publicizing the invitation, submission of bids, evaluations and contract award.

• Requirements Should Be Easily Understood: Invitations must describe the requirements of the Government clearly, accurately, and completely. Unnecessarily restrictive specifications or requirements that might unduly limit the number of bidders are prohibited
• Expect Competition: Competition is expected with sealed bidding because invitations for government contracts using the sealed bid method must be publicized through distribution to prospective bidders, posting in public places, and such other means as may be appropriate. Publicizing must occur a sufficient time before public opening of bids to enable prospective bidders to prepare and submit bids.
• Discussions Are Not Required: Sealed Bids shall be evaluated without discussions.
• Review Responsiveness and Responsibility: After bids are publicly opened, an award will be made with reasonable promptness to that responsible bidder whose bid, conforming to the invitation for bids, will be most advantageous to the Government, considering only price and the price-related factors included in the invitation.