Contracts & Purchase Orders
Before providing goods or services to UC Riverside, suppliers should have an authorized purchasing document or agreement, as applicable. This helps ensure the purchase is properly authorized and can be processed for payment.
What Suppliers Can Expect from UCR |
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|---|---|
| Fair & Equal Opportunity | UCR is committed to providing suppliers with fair and equal opportunities to compete for University business. |
| Decentralized Purchasing | Campus departments identify their purchasing needs and initiate purchases. Suppliers may market their goods and services directly to departments that may be interested in their offerings. |
| Authorized Purchases | Purchases must be authorized through an approved UCR purchasing method. Suppliers should confirm they have the appropriate authorization before providing goods or services. |
| Supplier Responsibilities | Suppliers are expected to provide competitive pricing, meet delivery commitments, communicate promptly, and follow applicable University purchasing, shipping, invoicing, and contractual requirements. |
Purchase Orders
For purchases made by purchase order, suppliers should receive a valid UCR Purchase Order before providing goods or services.
A purchase order identifies the authorized purchase and includes important information such as the goods or services being purchased, delivery instructions, and applicable terms and conditions.
Do not begin work or ship goods based only on a requisition, email, verbal request, or other informal communication. Confirm that you have received the appropriate purchasing authorization before proceeding.
Contracts & Agreements
Some purchases may require a contract or agreement in addition to, or instead of, a standard purchase order.
Only individuals with delegated contracting authority may enter into agreements that legally bind UC Riverside. Faculty, staff, and other campus employees should not sign supplier agreements or accept supplier terms on behalf of the University unless they have been specifically delegated that authority.
If your transaction requires an agreement, work with your UCR department contact and Procurement Services before beginning work.
Competitive Purchases
University policy and California requirements may affect how UCR purchases goods and services.
Purchases of $100,000 or more annually generally require competitive sourcing unless an applicable exception applies. For purchases below $100,000, Procurement may also seek competition when needed to validate pricing, develop a source, or meet other business needs.
UC's Small Business First program provides a streamlined procurement pathway for qualifying non-construction purchases between $10,000 and $250,000 when awarded to eligible certified Small Businesses or Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises.
Purchasing requirements should not be divided into smaller transactions to avoid applicable competitive purchasing requirements.
UC Terms & Conditions
University of California terms and conditions may apply to UCR purchase orders and agreements. Additional requirements may apply depending on the goods or services being purchased, funding source, or specific transaction.
For the most current University terms, policies, and legal documents, refer to the UC Office of the President.