Bid committees work through a compliance checklist before they look at price. Anything failing there never reaches evaluation, regardless of how good your offer is.
The core requirements
| Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|
| CIPC registration | Active and in good standing. Annual returns up to date |
| CSD registration | Active supplier number required by most organs of state |
| Tax compliance status | Verified through SARS. Expires and must be maintained |
| B-BBEE certificate or affidavit | Affects preference points, sometimes mandatory |
| VAT registration | Only where the specific tender requires it |
| Completed SBD forms | As listed in the tender document |
Sector-specific requirements
Depending on the work, you may also need:
- CIDB grading for construction work
- Professional registration such as ECSA or SACPCMP
- Letter of good standing from the Compensation Fund
- Relevant licences or accreditations for the sector
Things that expire
This is where established businesses lose bids they should win. Tax clearance, B-BBEE certificates and CIDB grading all have expiry dates, and nothing reminds you.
Diarise every expiry date at 60 days before, not on the day. Renewals take time.
Read the tender document
Requirements vary. A tender may waive something standard or require something unusual. The tender document is the authority, not general advice.
Pay particular attention to the submission deadline, the delivery method, and whether a compulsory briefing session applies. Missing a compulsory briefing disqualifies you outright.
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General information, not procurement or legal advice. Requirements vary by tender and by organ of state. Always read the specific tender document.