Understanding Indefinite-Delivery Contract: A Comprehensive Guide

Definition & Meaning

An indefinite-delivery contract is a type of agreement used when the exact timing and quantity of supplies or services needed are not known at the time of the contract. This approach allows for flexibility in procurement, enabling the buyer to request goods or services as necessary without committing to a specific delivery schedule or quantity upfront. There are three main types of indefinite-delivery contracts: definite-quantity contracts, requirements contracts, and indefinite-quantity contracts.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A government agency issues an indefinite-quantity contract to a supplier for office supplies, allowing the agency to order as needed over a year without specifying exact quantities upfront.

Example 2: A construction firm enters into a requirements contract with a materials supplier, ensuring that they can order materials as required for various projects throughout the year (hypothetical example).

Comparison with related terms

Term Description Difference
Definite-quantity contract A contract for a specific quantity of supplies to be delivered at specified times. Unlike indefinite-delivery contracts, it specifies exact quantities and delivery dates.
Requirements contract A contract that obligates the supplier to provide all of the buyer's requirements for a specified period. It ensures supply availability but does not specify exact quantities upfront.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are considering an indefinite-delivery contract, assess your needs carefully and determine which type of contract best suits your situation. You can explore ready-to-use legal form templates on US Legal Forms to help draft your contract. If the situation is complex or involves significant financial commitments, consulting a legal professional is advisable.

Quick facts

  • Types: Definite-quantity, requirements, and indefinite-quantity contracts.
  • Regulated by: 48 CFR 16.505.
  • Commonly used in: Government and commercial procurement.
  • Flexibility: Allows for adjustments in delivery and quantity.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

It is a contract used when the exact timing and quantity of supplies or services are not known at the time of contracting.