Bid Limits
UALR is required to adhere to purchasing laws established by the State of Arkansas. These requirements vary dependent on the dollar levels of procurement of “like commodities.” In general, purchases in amounts ranging from $0 up to $5,000 may be purchased without any bidding requirements. Purchases from $5,000 up to $25,000 require three competitive bids to be on file. Purchases in amounts of $25,000 or greater require Purchasing staff to advertise for formal sealed bids. Splitting purchase orders in an attempt to avoid these bidding requirements is illegal and the originator of the documents will be held accountable.
The Purchasing Department is also a member of many cooperative purchasing organizations. These contracts have already been bid, and purchases are allowed at any time with the previously negotiated pricing. If you need to know if a product is available, please contact Purchasing at 569-3144 and they will be glad to assist you.