Streamlined Acquisition is a simplified, accelerated process for obtaining a new GSA Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) contract, available to contractors who have successfully completed the full 20-year term of a previous MAS contract. This acquisition method allows experienced, high-performing vendors to re-enter the MAS program without resubmitting a full offer, reducing administrative burden and minimizing delays in federal market access.
Streamlined Acquisition is not an extension of an existing contract, but rather a new contract award under a modified submission and evaluation framework. It is designed to reward long-term contractors with a history of satisfactory performance by easing the pathway to renewal and continued participation in the MAS program.
Purpose of the Streamlined Acquisition Process
The primary objectives of Streamlined Acquisition are to:
- Ensure uninterrupted access to the MAS program for successful, long-term contractors
- Eliminate redundant data submissions for vendors with proven federal performance
- Accelerate the award of a new contract to replace an expiring 20-year vehicle
- Maintain continuity in offerings on GSA Advantage!, eBuy, and eLibrary
- Encourage high-performing businesses to remain active in federal procurement
By using this process, GSA reduces the evaluation time required and enables the contractor to seamlessly transition into a new contract cycle.
Who Is Eligible for Streamlined Acquisition
To qualify for the Streamlined Acquisition process, contractors must meet all the following criteria:
- Completed a full 20-year MAS contract term (base + 3 option periods)
- Maintained satisfactory past performance throughout the contract lifecycle
- Remained compliant with all MAS terms, including sales reporting and IFF payments
- Kept their GSA Advantage! catalog up to date and consistent with awarded terms
- Have no unresolved audit findings or major CAV deficiencies
- Be in good standing with the GSA and not subject to suspension, debarment, or adverse legal actions
Contractors who meet these criteria can request permission from their GSA Contracting Officer to submit an offer under the streamlined method.
Key Features of the Streamlined Acquisition Process
1. Reduced Submission Requirements
Streamlined offers allow contractors to reuse historical data and reference their previous contract performance in place of newly generated documentation. Some of the relaxed requirements include:
- No need to submit detailed commercial sales practices (CSP) disclosures if pricing is unchanged
- No requirement to resubmit past performance narratives if recent CPARS or contract history is available
- Labor category descriptions, pricing, and terms can be carried forward with minor updates
- Supporting documentation is limited to areas where changes have occurred (e.g., new SINs or pricing updates)
2. Faster Evaluation Timelines
GSA prioritizes streamlined submissions, often completing reviews and awards in 30–90 days, compared to longer timeframes for new vendors. The Contracting Officer can move more quickly through:
- Pricing validation (especially when previous rates were deemed fair and reasonable)
- Technical review, particularly for unchanged labor categories or services
- Compliance verification through historical data and audit records
3. New Contract Number Issued
Unlike an Option Extension, which continues the same contract, a Streamlined Acquisition results in a brand-new MAS contract number. This means:
- The contractor must upload a new catalog to GSA Advantage! under the new contract
- Open task orders or BPAs under the old contract may need to be migrated or closed out
- Agency buyers should be notified of the transition to avoid confusion
Steps in the Streamlined Acquisition Process
- Confirm eligibility and contract expiration timeline with your assigned Contracting Officer
- Request permission to use the streamlined method via formal communication
- Prepare a tailored offer package, referencing prior performance and pricing history
- Submit via eOffer, using updated representations and certifications
- Work with GSA reviewers to address any questions, clarifications, or pricing updates
- Receive new contract award, including a new contract number and contract period
- Submit catalog in FCP (or SIP if still in use) to activate visibility on GSA Advantage!
- Notify agency customers and begin using the new contract for orders and modifications
Common Misconceptions
- Streamlined does not mean automatic: Contractors must still go through offer submission and review
- A new contract number is always issued: It is not an extension of the old contract
- Past performance still matters: A poor compliance history can disqualify a contractor from using this process
- You still must upload a catalog: Pricelist and Advantage! visibility must be re-established under the new contract
Best Practices for a Smooth Streamlined Acquisition
- Start early: Begin planning at least 9–12 months before the original contract expires
- Coordinate with your Contracting Officer to confirm requirements
- Use your past performance as a strength, including CPARS, sales data, and CAV results
- Ensure pricing is current and competitive, especially if market conditions have changed
- Prepare your new catalog before the old contract expires to avoid gaps in visibility
- Communicate with your agency buyers to ensure smooth transition between contracts
Conclusion
Streamlined Acquisition is an efficient path for long-standing, successful GSA contractors to continue offering their products or services under a new MAS contract with reduced administrative overhead. It rewards compliance, reliability, and strong performance by simplifying the renewal process after a full 20-year term. With proper planning, coordination, and attention to detail, contractors can use the streamlined process to maintain continuous access to the GSA marketplace—ensuring no disruption in sales, visibility, or customer relationships.
