2-27.2 Availability of the RFPs

When the competitive purchase method will be used, enough suppliers should be solicited to ensure adequate competition. In addition, the CO should make a reasonable effort to provide copies of the RFP to any supplier requesting one. If the requirement is being competed among prequalified suppliers, suppliers not on the prequalification list may be provided a copy of the RFP, but they must be told that the Postal Service plans to award the resulting contract to a supplier on the prequalification list. Requests for copies may be denied once a reasonable number of copies have been distributed to the solicited suppliers and others who have requested them. The CO should fully explain to suppliers the unavailability of RFPs.

Alternatively, the CO may make available through FedBizOpps (www.fedbizopps.gov), the GPE, RFPs publicized through the GPE, including specifications and other pertinent information determined necessary by the CO. When practicable and cost-effective, the CO may make additional solicitation-related information accessible through the GPE.

When an RFP or solicitation package is so voluminous that it is impracticable to reproduce a reasonable number of copies for those requesting them, a limited number of copies should be made available for sale; the cost should include the cost of reproduction and postage.