If you are always cramming trying to submit your bid proposal before the deadline, it’s time to change that habit and start placing your bids early. Whether the bid proposal needs to be submitted by mail, in-person, or electronically, it is possible that something unexpected can happen at the last minute. There are always hiccups that can arise, and it can be an end to all the work that went into your proposal if you miss the bid closing deadline.
What Are the Hiccups You May Encounter Submitting Online Bids?
Despite our best efforts, delays or technical issues can happen. With e-bidding, it saves you a lot of time and money, however, you cannot control an internet outage or other technical challenges. We always hope nothing is wrong that could happen. But it is always a good idea to prepare for any technical issues.
Always Remember That Closing Date and Time Is Final
Remember, the closing date and time attached to the bid is final unless extended by the buyer with an amendment. With Bidnet Direct’s Electronic Bid Submission, buyers cannot see that you submitted a response until the time of closing with an electronic bid opening. All bid responses are securely locked and out of view by the buyer. You, as the responding bidder, do have access to remove your submission and/or make needed edits up until the closing date and time.
How to Avoid Getting Delayed in Submitting Your Bids
There are no disadvantages to being early in submitting bids. Whether you are submitting bids electronically or via mail, you can follow these tips to ensure the buyers receives your bid proposal on time.
1. Prepare a Bid Proposal Template
Every RFP and bid invitation can vary, but you can base your template on your previous bid submissions. Grab the basic information needed and adjust accordingly. Researching previously published RFPs and bid documents from agencies you want to do business with can help you prepare a template.
2. Do Not Wait Until the Day Before
Once you find a bid that is best suited for your business, start downloading all documents required immediately. Whether you must submit your bid proposal by physical copy or electronically, do not wait to prepare all your documents when you only have a few days left before the deadline. We advise you to at least submit your bid proposal 24 hours before the deadline if submitting online and 2 days before submitting by mail.
3. Call For Help If Needed
Depending on the nature of the issue, there are some help hotlines indicated on the RFP. When the RFP calls for electronic submission and you are having technical difficulties with the bidding platform, do not hesitate to contact customer service immediately. If you are having issues with the Bidnet Direct platform, you can call our customer service at 800-835-4603 from 8 AM to 8 PM ET or email them at support@bidnet.com.
Submitting bids early gives you plenty of advantages. It keeps your mind focused on bringing in a winning proposal instead of rushed work. Submitting bids through Bidnet Direct can help you be timely with the reminder tools such as the countdown clock on the bid overview page and the email notifications. But no matter how you submit your bid proposal, the earlier the better.
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