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ESPD completion guide
Filling the European Single Procurement Document without triggering exclusion.
ESPD Completion Guide
What this is
A concise guide for small contractors on how to correctly complete the European Single Procurement Document (ESPD) required in many EU public procurement procedures. It helps you avoid common exclusion grounds related to missing or incorrect self‑declarations.
When you need it
Use during the pre‑qualification or selection phase when the tender pack asks for an ESPD. Submission of a correctly filled ESPD is usually mandatory for eligibility; without it, bids are excluded.
How to fill it in
- Download the standard ESPD form (usually provided as XML or PDF by the contracting authority).
- For each exclusion ground, answer “Yes” or “No”. If you select “No”, provide a brief factual explanation and reference any supporting document (e.g., tax certificate).
- For selection criteria, tick the boxes that apply to your company and enter the required quantitative data (e.g., turnover for the last two financial years).
20|4. Indicate whether you rely on capacities of other entities; if so, attach their ESPD information (Article 59) and note the reliance per Article 63.
- Review the form for completeness, sign electronically if allowed, and upload it in the e‑procurement system before the deadline.
What wins points
24|The evaluator checks that all mandatory fields are completed and that any self‑declarations are supported by up‑to‑date certificates. A fully populated ESPD demonstrates administrative compliance (a pass/fail gate) under Article 59.
How this gets you disqualified
- Missing or unsigned ESPD form; the tender pack explicitly states the ESPD is mandatory.
- Incorrect answers to exclusion grounds (e.g., stating “Yes” without providing supporting evidence).
- Failure to attach required certificates for tax, social security, or professional qualifications referenced in the ESPD.
- Not indicating reliance on third‑party capacities when required by Article 63.
- Submitting the ESPD after the deadline or in an unsupported file format.
Template
[Company Name] [Legal Form] [Address] [VAT Identification Number] [National Registration Number] --- European Single Procurement Document (ESPD) 1. Exclusion grounds: a) Conviction for offences … [Yes/No] Explanation: ______________________ b) Insolvency … [Yes/No] Explanation: ______________________ ... (repeat for each ground listed in the form) 2. Selection criteria (Article 67): - Economic and financial standing – Turnover last two years: __________ EUR - Technical capability – Number of similar contracts completed: _______ - Professional qualifications – List certifications attached: __________ 3. Reliance on capacities of other entities (Article 63): [Yes/No] If yes, attach the ESPD information for each entity. 4. Declaration: I confirm that all statements are true and complete to the best of my knowledge. Signature: ______________________ Date: _______________
What wins points
Providing a fully completed ESPD with accurate answers and attached supporting certificates demonstrates administrative compliance and can earn positive points under Article 67 selection criteria.
How this gets you disqualified
Missing, unsigned, or incorrectly answered ESPD fields—or failing to attach required certificates—will lead to immediate disqualification.
What an evaluator actually looks for
Evaluators first check that the ESPD is complete, signed, and all mandatory exclusion grounds are marked 'No' with supporting evidence.
Sources
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