GSA Multiple Award Schedule (MAS): Complete Guide for Contractors
Learn how to get on the GSA Schedule, navigate the MAS application process, pricing strategies, and maximize sales through the largest government contract vehicle.
Quick Answer
The GSA Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) is a long-term government-wide contract that provides federal, state, and local agencies access to over 11 million commercial products and services at pre-negotiated prices. With over $36 billion in annual sales, it's the largest and most widely used federal contract vehicle.
What is the GSA Multiple Award Schedule?
The GSA Multiple Award Schedule (MAS), formerly known as the Federal Supply Schedule (FSS), is an indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract vehicle managed by the General Services Administration. It streamlines federal procurement by allowing agencies to purchase commercial products and services directly from pre-approved vendors at pre-negotiated prices.
In 2019, GSA consolidated all 24 legacy schedules into a single, unified MAS program to simplify the process for both contractors and buyers. The MAS program now covers 12 Large Categories and numerous Special Item Numbers (SINs).
GSA MAS Large Categories
Benefits of Having a GSA Schedule
Access to Government Buyers
Your products and services become visible to over 2 million federal employees and state/local agencies through GSA Advantage and eBuy platforms.
Streamlined Procurement
Agencies can purchase up to $250,000 with simplified acquisition procedures, making buying decisions faster and easier.
Pre-Vetted Status
GSA Schedule holders are already vetted for responsibility, financial stability, and compliance—reducing barriers to contract award.
Long-Term Contract
A 20-year contract term with 5-year base period and three 5-year options provides stability and reduces recompetition burden.
Who Can Buy from GSA Schedule?
All Products & Services
- • All federal agencies
- • Mixed government organizations
- • Certain tribal governments
Disaster Recovery & IT
- • State governments
- • Local governments
- • Eligible educational institutions
Eligibility Requirements
Before applying for a GSA Schedule, ensure your company meets these fundamental requirements:
2+ Years in Business
Your company must have been operational for at least two years with demonstrated commercial sales.
Financial Stability
Provide audited financial statements and demonstrate ability to fulfill government orders.
SAM.gov Registration
Active registration in the System for Award Management with current CAGE code and UEI.
Commercial Sales History
Evidence of commercial sales at consistent pricing to establish your commercial sales practices.
Adequate Accounting System
For services: an accounting system capable of tracking costs by contract if offering T&M or labor-hour services.
GSA Schedule Application Process
The GSA Schedule application (eOffer) is submitted through the GSA eOffer/eMod system. Plan for 3-6 months for the typical application process.
Pathway Selection
Choose between the traditional offer process or the Startup Springboard Program (for innovative tech companies with less than 2 years but VC backing).
Document Preparation
Gather required documents including:
- • Financial statements (2-3 years)
- • Commercial price lists
- • Past performance references
- • Technical capability documentation
- • Commercial Sales Practices Format
- • Digital certificates for signing
eOffer Submission
Complete and submit your offer through eOffer (eoffer.gsa.gov). Include pricing proposals, terms and conditions, and all required attachments.
Negotiation
A GSA Contracting Officer will review your offer and may request clarifications or negotiate pricing. Respond promptly to all requests.
Award & Setup
Upon award, set up your GSA Advantage catalog, complete required training, and begin marketing your Schedule to federal buyers.
Pricing Strategies for GSA Schedule
GSA pricing is based on your Most Favored Customer (MFC) commercial pricing. Understanding this concept is critical for successful negotiations.
Price Reduction Clause (PRC)
The PRC requires you to maintain the relationship between your GSA prices and commercial prices. If you give a better discount to commercial customers, you may need to pass that discount to GSA.
Tip: Carefully identify your "Basis of Award" customer class during negotiations. This determines your PRC obligations and can significantly impact your flexibility.
Products Pricing
- • Base commercial list prices
- • Volume discounts by tier
- • Maximum order thresholds
- • Shipping terms (typically FOB Destination)
Services Pricing
- • Fully-burdened labor rates
- • Ceiling rates with discounts available
- • Labor category descriptions
- • Site rates (contractor vs. government)
Marketing Your GSA Schedule
Having a GSA Schedule doesn't guarantee sales. Active marketing is essential to drive orders to your contract.
GSA Advantage
Optimize your GSA Advantage catalog with detailed descriptions, images, and competitive pricing.
GSA eBuy
Monitor and respond to RFQs posted by agencies seeking quotes from Schedule holders.
Direct Outreach
Contact agency procurement officers and program managers directly about their needs.
Industry Events
Attend government procurement conferences and vendor outreach events.
Compliance & Contract Maintenance
Maintaining your GSA Schedule requires ongoing compliance activities and periodic modifications.
Required Compliance Activities
Pay 0.75% quarterly fee on all Schedule sales through the 72A reporting system.
Report all sales quarterly, even if zero, through the GSA reporting portal.
Monitor commercial pricing and notify GSA of required price reductions.
Keep GSA Advantage listings current with accurate pricing and availability.
Respond to GSA-initiated modifications within required timeframes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a GSA Schedule?
The typical timeline is 3-6 months from submission to award, though complex offers may take longer. Preparation time before submission can add 1-3 months.
What is the Industrial Funding Fee?
The IFF is a 0.75% fee on all GSA Schedule sales that funds the GSA program. It's built into your pricing and remitted quarterly.
Can I add products or services after award?
Yes, you can submit modifications through eMod to add new SINs, products, or services. Modifications typically take 30-90 days to process.
What if I have no sales in a quarter?
You must still submit a zero-dollar sales report and IFF remittance. Consistent lack of sales may result in contract cancellation under the "dormant contract" policy.
Is a GSA Schedule exclusive?
No, having a GSA Schedule doesn't prevent you from competing for other federal contracts or selling directly to agencies outside the Schedule.
Find GSA Schedule Opportunities with BidFinds
Already have a GSA Schedule? BidFinds helps you find agencies actively seeking products and services in your SINs across federal, state, and local opportunities for just $99/month.
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