Federal agencies are responsible for maintaining a wide variety of facilities, ranging from administrative offices to military installations and critical infrastructure. This creates a constant need for maintenance, repair, and janitorial supplies. However, the traditional procurement process for these items can be cumbersome, fragmented, and inconsistent across agencies. Challenges such as redundant purchases, variable pricing, limited supplier diversity, and lengthy procurement cycles have historically hindered efficiency and cost control.
- What is the MRFS BPA?
- Key Features of MRFS BPA
- Benefits for Contractors: Expert Perspective from Price Reporter
- Eligibility and How to Participate
- Ordering Process for Agencies
- Strategic Importance and Government Goals
- Final Thoughts
- FAQ: Understanding the MRFS BPA and How It Works
To address these challenges, the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) introduced the Maintenance, Repair, and Facility Supplies (MRFS) Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA). This government-wide acquisition solution is designed to streamline the purchasing of facility maintenance and janitorial products through a centralized, pre-competed, and compliant framework. The MRFS BPA builds upon previous strategic sourcing initiatives and consolidates multiple commodity categories into a single, efficient procurement channel.
This article aims to provide a clear understanding of the MRFS BPA. We will explore its structure, key features, and benefits – both for government buyers seeking to simplify and optimize their procurement strategy, and for contractors interested in expanding their federal market presence through this Best-in-Class solution.
What is the MRFS BPA?
The Maintenance, Repair, and Facility Supplies (MRFS) Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA) is a governmentwide contract vehicle established by the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA). It provides federal agencies with streamlined access to a broad range of facility-related products, including tools, cleaning supplies, safety equipment, and other maintenance essentials. The MRFS BPA is part of the Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) program and operates under Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 8.405-3.
The MRFS BPA is the direct successor to two earlier Federal Strategic Sourcing Initiatives: the Maintenance, Repair, and Operations (MRO) BPA and the Janitorial and Sanitation (JanSan) BPA. These programs were originally created to drive savings and standardize procurement across agencies. The MRFS BPA combines both categories into a single acquisition channel, creating a more unified and efficient solution for recurring facility supply needs.
Designated as a Best-in-Class (BIC) solution under the federal government’s Category Management framework, the MRFS BPA supports long-term strategic goals such as improving procurement efficiency, promoting sustainability, and advancing socio-economic inclusion. Contractors selected for the MRFS BPA must meet strict compliance standards, including Trade Agreements Act (TAA) adherence, and many are either small businesses or participants in programs like Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB).
By consolidating two major commodity sets into a single, high-performing BPA, GSA has created a contract vehicle that simplifies acquisition while supporting federal mandates for cost savings, environmental responsibility, and supplier diversity.
Key Features of MRFS BPA
The MRFS BPA is structured as a Multiple Award Blanket Purchase Agreement established under the Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) Program, in accordance with FAR 8.405-3. It offers a compliant, competitive, and highly efficient solution for the acquisition of frequently used maintenance and facility supplies across the federal government.
Broad Scope of Products
The MRFS BPA includes thousands of items used in everyday facility operations. These range from industrial hardware and cleaning products to safety gear and maintenance tools. By consolidating these into one procurement channel, agencies reduce the need for multiple vendors and separate contracts.
Core Features and Benefits for Agencies
The table below summarizes key features of the MRFS BPA and the direct advantages they offer to federal buyers:
| Feature | Description |
| Wide Product Range | Tools, cleaning supplies, PPE, appliances, waste containers, disinfectants |
| Multiple Ordering Channels | GSA Advantage, FedMall, contractor websites, phone, fax, and physical stores |
| Low or No Minimum Orders | Many items have either no minimum threshold or one as low as $25 |
| FOB Destination Pricing | Shipping included in price, reducing cost uncertainty |
| Standard Delivery Time | Most products delivered within 6 business days across the continental US |
| Real-Time Order Tracking | Agencies can monitor order status on all supported platforms |
| Expedited Shipping Options | Available for urgent needs, with additional cost if required |
| AbilityOne Compliance | Vendors authorized to supply AbilityOne-designated products |
These features help eliminate common pain points in federal procurement such as delivery delays, unclear pricing, and fragmented product sourcing.
The MRFS BPA also supports disaster recovery procurement and emergency response readiness, making it a critical tool for both routine and urgent supply needs.
Benefits for Contractors: Expert Perspective from Price Reporter
The MRFS BPA offers contractors a reliable and scalable way to expand within the federal market. Based on the experience of the Price Reporter consulting team, this program stands out as a high-value opportunity for businesses with active GSA Schedules.
One of the main advantages is streamlined access to procurement officers from civilian and defense agencies. Because the MRFS BPA operates with pre-negotiated terms and established ordering procedures, contractors can receive frequent orders without re-entering the full bidding cycle each time. This reduces administrative effort and increases operational efficiency.
Contractors offering commonly used commodities — such as janitorial products, personal protective equipment, and maintenance tools — benefit from consistent demand. These are high-volume, mission-critical items for many federal buyers. The regular purchasing cycle leads to predictable order flow and better long-term sales planning.
The BPA also strongly aligns with federal socio-economic goals. Many awarded vendors are either small or disadvantaged businesses, including those classified as WOSB, SDVOSB, or 8(a). Contractors who qualify for these designations are more likely to gain a competitive edge in the selection process and are better positioned for agency set-aside opportunities.
Finally, participation in the MRFS BPA requires a high level of compliance and data transparency. Trade Agreements Act compliance, AbilityOne sourcing, catalog maintenance, and transactional data reporting are all critical elements of program participation. Price Reporter supports contractors in navigating and maintaining these standards, helping them stay active and competitive throughout the life of the BPA.
This combination of demand stability, reduced administrative load, and strategic growth potential makes the MRFS BPA one of the most contractor-friendly vehicles available in the GSA landscape today.
Eligibility and How to Participate
To become a vendor under the MRFS BPA, contractors must meet a defined set of qualifications and participate through established GSA acquisition platforms. While the MRFS BPA is highly competitive, it is also designed to be inclusive of qualified small businesses and specialized suppliers that can meet federal requirements.
Relevant SINs Under the MAS Program
Contractors must hold an active GSA Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) contract with Special Item Numbers (SINs) relevant to the MRFS BPA. Some of the commonly included SINs are:
- 332510S — Hardware Store, Home Improvement Center, or Industrial Supply Storefront
- 325611 — Cleaning Products
- 333TOOL — Tools (Powered and Non-Powered), Tool Kits, Tool Boxes and Accessories
- 325612 — Disinfectants, Sterilants, and Deodorizers
- 339994 — Hand Floor Cleaning Equipment
- 325998W — Water Treatment Solutions
- 811310MR — Machine and Equipment Maintenance and Repair
These SINs reflect the full range of maintenance and janitorial supplies included in the scope of the MRFS BPA.
Vendor Qualifications
To be eligible for award under the MRFS BPA, contractors must demonstrate:
- An active MAS contract with relevant SINs
- Financial and operational stability, including the ability to meet order fulfillment standards
- Proven past performance with federal, state, or commercial clients
- Competitive pricing structures, including volume discounts and market-aligned rates
Contractors are also expected to maintain high levels of responsiveness, accuracy in product listings, and timely delivery performance.
Role of GSA Platforms
GSA eBuy serves as the primary platform for solicitation and bidding opportunities related to MRFS BPA. Vendors can monitor relevant RFQs (Requests for Quote) and respond directly through the portal. Additionally, once awarded, products must be made available through GSA Advantage, allowing agencies to browse and order with ease.
Ongoing Compliance and Transparency
Participation in the MRFS BPA also requires continuous adherence to reporting and compliance standards. Vendors must provide:
- Transactional Data Reporting (TDR) to support spend analysis and category management
- Up-to-date electronic catalogs with accurate pricing, product descriptions, and availability
- Environmental and socioeconomic certifications, where applicable
- Trade Agreements Act (TAA) compliance, ensuring origin of products meets federal sourcing laws
By meeting these expectations, contractors position themselves as trusted partners in a high-priority federal procurement program.
Ordering Process for Agencies
The MRFS BPA is designed to make the procurement process faster, more consistent, and fully compliant with federal acquisition regulations. Agencies benefit from multiple ordering options, streamlined approvals, and standardized delivery expectations.
How Agencies Place Orders
Federal buyers can place orders under the MRFS BPA through several procurement channels, depending on the size and urgency of the purchase. Orders generally fall into the following categories:
- Micro-purchases under $10,000 can be made directly without competition, in accordance with the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR).
- Simplified acquisitions between $10,000 and $250,000 typically require competition among BPA holders, but the process is faster than full-scale solicitations.
- Orders above $250,000 must follow more formal competitive procedures, including evaluation of price, delivery, and other factors.
All purchases must align with the terms of the MAS contract and the specific conditions of the MRFS BPA.
Payment and Ordering Methods
Agencies can place orders using several methods:
- GSA SmartPay government purchase cards
- Purchase Orders (POs) issued through contracting offices
- Direct orders via contractor websites or physical storefronts, where available
Orders can also be placed through GSA Advantage and FedMall, which provide catalog access and real-time inventory visibility.
Delivery and Tracking Standards
The MRFS BPA includes clearly defined service-level expectations:
- Standard delivery within six business days for most items across the continental United States
- Order tracking and status updates available through all major ordering platforms
- Expedited delivery options may be available for urgent requirements, subject to additional fees
These standards help ensure that agencies receive critical supplies without unnecessary delays.
Disaster Recovery and Emergency Purchasing
In addition to routine ordering, the MRFS BPA supports emergency response and disaster recovery procurement. Under the Disaster Purchasing Program, state and local governments may also purchase through the BPA to support preparedness, response, and recovery efforts following a declared disaster.
This flexibility makes the MRFS BPA a valuable tool not only for day-to-day operational needs but also for contingency planning and rapid response scenarios.
Strategic Importance and Government Goals
The MRFS BPA is more than just a procurement tool. It plays a central role in advancing the federal government’s long-term acquisition strategy. Designed within the framework of Category Management, the MRFS BPA directly supports goals related to efficiency, transparency, fiscal responsibility, and inclusive economic participation.
Supporting Category Management
As a designated Best-in-Class (BIC) solution, the MRFS BPA is aligned with federal Category Management principles. This approach encourages agencies to buy as an organized enterprise rather than as individual offices. By consolidating purchasing through a vetted group of suppliers, agencies can eliminate inefficiencies, gain pricing advantages, and ensure consistency in the goods and services they acquire.
Reducing Duplication and Enhancing Transparency
The MRFS BPA reduces contract duplication by offering a single, governmentwide vehicle that agencies across all sectors can use. This not only simplifies the acquisition process but also improves visibility into government-wide spending. Centralized ordering platforms and mandatory usage reports from vendors provide data that federal buyers and policymakers can use to monitor trends, identify gaps, and improve performance.
Enabling Cost Savings and Spend Analytics
One of the core objectives of the MRFS BPA is to drive measurable cost savings. Through strategic sourcing and negotiated pricing, the program achieves volume-based discounts and reduces administrative overhead. In addition, the BPA requires Transactional Data Reporting (TDR), which enables detailed spend analytics. These insights help agencies manage budgets more effectively and inform future acquisition decisions.
Promoting Sustainability and Small Business Engagement
Sustainability is a key focus area within the MRFS BPA. Products offered must meet applicable environmental standards such as Energy Star, BioPreferred, and WaterSense. Many BPA holders also offer eco-friendly alternatives for common facility supplies.
At the same time, the BPA actively supports small business participation. A significant portion of awards have gone to small and disadvantaged businesses, including those that are woman-owned, veteran-owned, and service-disabled veteran-owned. This ensures a more inclusive federal supply chain and supports the broader economic goals of the government.
Final Thoughts
The MRFS BPA provides a streamlined, strategic, and governmentwide solution for acquiring critical maintenance and facility supplies. By consolidating multiple commodity areas into a single, Best-in-Class vehicle, it simplifies purchasing, supports regulatory compliance, and delivers measurable value to both buyers and suppliers.
For contractors, this program represents a powerful opportunity to increase sales, improve visibility in the federal space, and align with the government’s goals around small business participation and sustainable procurement. Now is the right time for companies to assess their eligibility, positioning, and readiness to take part in the MRFS BPA.
At Price Reporter, we have been helping companies succeed in the federal marketplace since 2006. With deep expertise in GSA contract acquisition and management, our team supports businesses at every stage — from initial qualification to long-term contract growth. Should your company be considering participation in the MRFS BPA or wants to improve its federal contracting strategy, our consultants are ready to help you navigate the path forward.
FAQ: Understanding the MRFS BPA and How It Works
What does MRFS BPA stand for, and what is its main purpose?
MRFS BPA stands for Maintenance, Repair, and Facility Supplies Blanket Purchase Agreement. It is a government-wide contract vehicle that allows federal agencies to purchase a wide range of facility-related supplies through a streamlined and standardized process. The primary goal of the MRFS BPA is to reduce procurement complexity, drive cost savings, and increase efficiency across federal purchasing. It also supports compliance with strategic sourcing, sustainability, and small business participation mandates.
Who can buy through the MRFS BPA, and how do they place orders?
Federal agencies, including civilian and defense departments, can place orders under the MRFS BPA. Orders can be submitted through platforms such as GSA Advantage, FedMall, or directly through contractor websites and stores. Agencies can use purchase orders, GSA SmartPay cards, or other approved payment methods. Ordering procedures depend on the dollar value, with different rules applying to micro-purchases, simplified acquisitions, and larger competitive orders.
What types of products are available under the MRFS BPA?
The MRFS BPA includes a wide selection of products necessary for facility maintenance, repair, cleaning, and sanitation. This includes tools, hardware, cleaning chemicals, safety equipment, personal protective gear, waste management supplies, and more. All products offered must meet Trade Agreements Act requirements and comply with federal environmental standards. The wide scope makes it a one-stop solution for everyday operational needs.
How can a contractor become eligible to participate in the MRFS BPA?
To qualify for participation in the MRFS BPA, a contractor must hold an active GSA Multiple Award Schedule contract with relevant SINs. The company must also demonstrate financial stability, relevant past performance, and the ability to offer competitive pricing. Compliance with data reporting, catalog accuracy, and sustainability guidelines is also mandatory. Interested contractors typically monitor GSA eBuy for solicitations and respond to BPA opportunities through formal proposals.
Why is the MRFS BPA considered strategically important to the federal government?
The MRFS BPA is designated as a Best-in-Class solution under Category Management, which means it helps the government manage spending more efficiently. It reduces duplication by consolidating purchases across agencies and increases transparency through standardized data reporting. The BPA also supports broader goals such as small business utilization, supply chain security, and environmentally responsible procurement. For these reasons, it is a key tool in modernizing federal acquisition.
