Procurement procedure · Free
GSA Multiple Award Schedule
Getting on Schedule, catalog pricing, how agencies order under FAR 8.4
What wins points
Using the GSA Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) provides pre‑negotiated pricing and reduces procurement time, increasing eligibility and compliance with FAR 8.401.
What gets bids disqualified
Risk of disqualification arises from using an ineligible ordering activity, incorrect SIN, or failure to document schedule use per FAR 8.405‑2.
Evaluator's view
Show that the MAS was used appropriately: cite the ordering activity authorization (FAR 8.401) and include SIN, contractor, price, and justification.
GSA Multiple Award Schedule
What this is
The GSA Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) is a government‑wide contracting vehicle that provides multiple suppliers for the same supplies or services under pre‑negotiated pricing. Agencies can order directly from any schedule contractor without separate competition.
When you need it
Use MAS when you need commercial items or services that are covered by an existing GSA Schedule – especially for recurring purchases, small‑business set‑asides, and when you want the convenience of a pre‑priced catalog. It is mandatory for many agencies under FAR 52.212‑1(f) to use schedules when applicable.
How to fill it in
- Identify the requirement – determine whether the needed supply or service appears on a GSA Schedule (search the Schedules e‑Library or GSA Advantage!).
- Verify ordering activity eligibility – confirm your agency is authorized under FAR 8.401; an ordering activity may place orders or establish BPAs against GSA Multiple Award Schedule contracts【S7†1000-1005】.
- Find the appropriate SIN – locate the Special Item Number (SIN) that matches your need.
- Check pricing – obtain the contractor’s pricelist; it must be current and include the required SIN.
- Choose ordering method – place the order via GSA Advantage!, eBuy, or a BPA if you have one established.
- Document the decision – record the schedule used, SIN, contractor, price, and justification in your procurement file (per FAR 8.405‑2 documentation requirements).
Template
[Agency Name] – [Date] Requirement: _____________ Schedule Used: GSA MAS – SIN _______ Contractor: ______________________ Price (per pricelist): $_________ Ordering Method: GSA Advantage!/eBuy/BPA Justification: - Why MAS is appropriate (refer to solicitation, FAR 8.401) - Best‑value factors considered (price, past performance, etc.) Documentation attached: Pricelist excerpt, SIN reference, ordering activity authorization.
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