1. Get registered
Most federal contracts require an active SAM.gov registration. See our step-by-step SAM.gov guide. State and local agencies usually have their own vendor registration.
2. Find the right bids
Federal opportunities are posted on SAM.gov. Bid Watch checks it every morning and sends you only the bids that match your trades and states, with the typical winning price for similar jobs.
3. Read the whole solicitation
Federal construction bids usually come with a cover form (often Standard Form 1442), a scope of work, drawings and specifications. Before you price anything, find:
- The due date, time and how to submit (email, an online portal, or sealed envelope).
- The set-aside, if any: whether the job is reserved for small businesses or a certain type of small business.
- The site visit date and the deadline for questions.
- Bonding requirements.
- The wage determination: the minimum wages and fringe benefits you must pay on the job.
- The estimated price range. Federal construction solicitations state the project's size range, such as "between $250,000 and $500,000."
4. Go to the site visit and ask questions in writing
Site visits show you conditions the drawings don't. Send questions in writing before the question deadline. Answers are shared with every bidder in an amendment.
5. Watch for amendments, and acknowledge every one
Agencies often change the scope, drawings or due date after posting. Each change comes out as an amendment, and you must acknowledge each one in your bid. Missing one can get your bid thrown out.
6. Line up bonds and price the job
Larger federal construction contracts require a bid bond with your bid, then payment and performance bonds if you win. Talk to a surety bonding agent early. Price using the required wage rates, and see how to price a government construction bid.
7. Submit exactly as instructed, and early
Use the forms and format they ask for, sign where required, and submit before the deadline. Late bids are almost always rejected, even by minutes.
8. After the bids are opened
On sealed bids, the award usually goes to the lowest-priced bidder who met all the requirements and can do the work. On proposals (RFPs), the agency may weigh experience and approach along with price. If you lose, you can usually ask for the results or a debriefing, which is free intel for your next bid.