Here's how its defined in FAR 16.501-1 -- Definitions. As used in this subpart -- "Delivery order contract" means a contract for supplies that does not procure or specify a firm quantity of supplies (other than a minimum or maximum quantity) and that provides for the issuance of orders for the delivery of supplies during the period of the contract. One project would not be an IDIQ. It could be one project awarded against an IDIQ on a Task Order or Delivery Order. An IDIQ covers specific type of work over an established period of time. Example: Your office covers projects in a national park. You solicit and award IDIQ's to cover construction work in that park for the next 6 years. Lets say you award 4 IDIQ contracts to cover that time. As projects come up for that park, you solicit only those four contractors. "Task order contract" means a contract for services that does not procure or specify a firm quantity of services (other than a minimum or maximum quantity) and that provides for the issuance of orders for the performance of tasks during the period of the contract. I looked through the Transportation Acquisition Regulation and the Transportation Acquisition Manual and found no requirement for Headquarters (HQ) approval.

Under an IDIQ (Job Order Contract) when would a Contractor be required, by FHWA
regulations, to designate their subcontractors - at the time of bid submittal
or at the time of an actual execution of a project specific Job Order? Because
project specific work is not known at the time of bid submittal it would seem
that subcontractor designation could not accurately occur until the time of
actual Job Order issuance. Please advise.

If the contract is awarded to the lowest responsive bidder, then SEP-14 is evaluation and approval is not necessary. The contract should provide for: 1) estimated quantities in a defined scope of work (including area and time); areas may be defined by geographic boundaries or systems; contract time should be limited to a short period - 1-2 years. 2) award to the lowest responsive bid based on estimated quantities for the above scope; 3) contracting agencies should re-let the contract at the end of the contract term (rather than extending the contract) .

Jerry, I am fairly new to the organization (almost 2 years) what is SEP-14? Why are you only suggesting 1 to 2 years? I suggest the use of options to take the contract out as long as reasonable. IDIQ's are intended to streamline the procurement process. You also don't have to have estimated quantities on an IDIQ. If you have estimated quantities its ok but more in line with a Requirements type of contract. On an IDIQ a minimum $ guarantee and a cieling $ is usually specified. I recommend anyone thinking of IDIQ's read FAR 16.5 and consult your Contracting Officer if you have questions.

Sorry, the previous post was mine, I forgot to put my name on it.