Free checklist
Tender submission checklist: 12 checks before you submit
Work through these checks in the days before your deadline. They catch the problems that most often cost small businesses marks or get bids rejected. Your buyer's own instructions always take priority.
1. Latest buyer documents and amendments
Download the final versions and read every clarification response. Answers based on an old specification lose marks.
2. Eligibility and mandatory requirements
Confirm you meet every pass/fail requirement, such as insurances, accreditations and financial thresholds, before investing time in quality answers.
3. Deadline, time and submission method
Note the exact date and time, the portal or method, and leave time for uploads. Late submissions are usually rejected.
4. Every question and sub-question answered
List each sub-question and tick it off in your draft. A missed sub-question is a missed score.
5. Evaluation criteria and weightings
Map each answer to the published criteria and spend words in proportion to the marks available.
6. Word, page and format limits
Check limits, fonts, file types and naming rules. Text beyond a limit may be ignored by evaluators.
7. Delivery method explained
Say how the service will actually be delivered on this contract, not just that it will be delivered well.
8. Supporting evidence included
Back claims with specific examples, case studies, figures or documents the buyer asked for. Never invent evidence.
9. Staffing and mobilisation commitments
Make sure named roles, hours and start-up timelines are realistic and match what you can resource.
10. Pricing, assumptions and exclusions
Check that the price schedule is complete and that any assumptions or exclusions are stated where the buyer allows them.
11. Consistency across documents
Staff numbers, hours, dates and commitments should match between quality answers, pricing and forms.
12. Required forms, signatures and attachments
Complete every declaration and form, sign where required, and attach everything listed in the instructions.
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Related guides: final tender response checklist, answering award criteria (MAT).
General guidance only, not legal or procurement advice.