Sealed Bidding (IFB)

What this is

A sealed‑bidding process (also called an Invitation for Bids, IFB) is the FAR Part 14 method where bidders submit a price‑only proposal in a sealed envelope. The contract is awarded to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder.

When you need it

Use this procedure whenever the solicitation specifies sealed bidding (FAR 52.212‑1(e)) – typical for simple supplies, services, or construction where only price matters. It is mandatory for any contract that the contracting officer determines may be awarded by sealed bidding under the sealed‑bidding rules in Part 14.

How to fill it in

1. Prepare the invitation for bids – include all required elements (see FAR 14.101):
2. Description of supplies/services and specifications.
3. Contracting officer’s name, address, and deadline for receipt of bids.
4. Instructions on how to format the sealed bid envelope.
5. Any mandatory clauses (e.g., 52.212‑1, 52.204‑8) and annexes.
6. Publicize the invitation – post it on SAM.gov or other public venues with enough lead time for bidders to prepare (FAR 14.101(b)).
7. Receive sealed bids – ensure they arrive before the published deadline; late bids are automatically rejected ([S15] “late submissions” rule).
8. Open and evaluate bids – open publicly, verify each bid is responsive (contains all required items) and responsible (the bidder meets responsibility requirements under FAR 9.1). Evaluate price only; no discussions allowed (FAR 14.101(d)).
9. Award the contract – award to the lowest responsive & responsible bidder promptly after evaluation (FAR 14.101(e)). Record the decision in the contract file.