GSA Lists – GSA Schedules are a non-industry-specific status for businesses that make and sell products and services to the US government through the General Services Administration (GSA). With this distinction, companies earn the respect and business of federal agencies, which is usually a lucrative endeavor.
The government created GSA Schedules to give federal agencies a convenient way to buy services and products without jumping through hoops to find the right source or manufacturer. Choosing a GSA Contract is a great way to sell to government entities. Aside from the ease of finding open bids, submitting an application for a GSA Contract allows buyers to identify eligible suppliers.
To become an approved GSA Contractor and get on GSA Lists:
Step 1: Read and understand Schedule Clause 552.238-88 GSA Advantage, which states that participation in GSA Advantage is required.
In addition, your Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) contract clause I-FSS-600, Contract Price List, addresses the submission of electronic catalogs. Companies must send vendors’ electronic catalog files within 30 days of award [under I-FSS-600(a)(2)].
Moreover, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) or the Schedule Input Program (SIP) software gets required for catalog submission. Several companies will create and submit your catalog data electronically for your review; however, there are fees involved with this service.
Step 2: Register.
The GSA Vendor Support Center (VSC) requires all GSA Contractors to register online at https://vsc.gsa.gov or by calling toll-free at 877-495-4849. (M-F 7:30-5:30 PM EST) before making it on GSA lists.
SIP will request your registration details if you utilize them. You will be given a password by the VSC, which you must use on all catalog submissions. This password keeps your information safe. Personnel from VSC can also assist you with your SIP catalog submission. The VSC requires that all contracts be registered.
Do keep in mind that a DUNS number gets required for registration. If your company does not have a DUNS number, go to www.dnb.com to get one free of charge from Dun & Bradstreet, Inc.
Step 3: Choose between EDI and SIP as your method of catalog submission.
You can make catalog submissions in two ways: EDI or SIP. Feel free to visit Instructions for Vendors Using EDI if your company already uses EDI for business transactions and would like to submit your catalog via EDI. Contrarily, look for SIP Instructions for Vendors Using SIP if you opt to use SIP instead.
Step 4: Submit and update your catalog.
You can submit your catalog, including updates and revisions, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Your consumers will see the information you submit (part numbers, descriptions, prices, and so on). It is your responsibility to ensure that the data you give is complete and accurate. Please make sure your items and services are well-described and up-to-date.
What are GSA Vendors?
The General Services Administration approves a vendor’s competence to sell to the government by assigning it a Schedule. GSA contractors who the GSA has approved can bid on government contracts and appear on GSA lists.
The title “GSA Approved” indicates that a company or organization can sell goods or services to the US government through the General Services Administration (GSA). Through contracts or Schedules, the GSA oversees all government purchasing operations.
Persistence, time, and research are all required to become a GSA contractor or vendor. Thus, many small businesses find the process intimidating because they lack the resources, time, or money to make schedule acquisition a reality. However, with the assistance of specialists, realizing dreams of being on GSA lists and becoming a GSA contractor can be relatively simple.
Professional Services Category
Buying products and services from the GSA Multiple Award Schedule is a straightforward, quick, and efficient way to get what you need to complete your goal.
GSA Multiple Award Schedule offers federal agencies access to more than 3,500 experienced professional services related contractors. These professionals provide a range of commercial professional services at discounted and competitive prices using the streamlined procurement procedures in FAR Subpart 8.4 Federal Supply Schedules.
The Professional Services Category provides new professional services solutions to federal, state, and municipal governments. Below are the Professional Services subcategories offered:
● Business Administrative Services
● Environmental Services
● Financial Services
● Identity Protection Services
● Language Services
● Legal Services
● Logistical Services
● Marketing and Public Relations
● Technical and Engineering Services (Non IT)
● Training
What is a GSA product?
The GSA started to serve as the federal government’s acquisition and procurement arm. As such, the GSA provides federal agencies with equipment, supplies, telecommunications, and integrated information technology solutions to focus on what they do best; serving the public. GSA offers a diverse range of items in the following categories:
● Facilities and Construction
● Human Capital
● Industrial Products and Services
● Information Technology
● Office Management
● Professional Services
● Security and Protection
● Transportation and Logistics Services
● Travel and Lodging
Conclusion
To secure a GSA Schedule contract and appear on GSA lists, potential GSA contractors must undergo extensive screening and evaluation.
Federal agencies can save time and money by using the GSA Schedule to discover and identify qualified and suitable GSA contractors. On the other hand, GSA contractors benefit from the GSA Schedule contract as it connects them directly to the government contracting community, making dealing with the government much easier. To continue to receive these premiums, GSA Contractors must adhere to GSA requirements.
