Purchasing

Search for university-wide contracts

Competitive bid process

Review existing contracts or create a new contract

Buying methods

Shipping and receiving

Invoice and payment requirements

Departments at the university buy a wide variety of products and services, enabling administrative and academic units to fulfill the institution’s objectives in instruction, research, and patient care. Procurement Services is responsible for helping units complete the procurement process in the most cost-efficient and convenient way possible while ensuring compliance with university policies and principles. Contact one of the procurement teams for assistance with your procurement needs.

The U-M Regents require that all transactions $50,000 or greater be competitively bid and managed by Procurement Services, to ensure that prices are fair and reasonable.

Buying Methods

Before you make a purchase, you should consider which of the buying options is appropriate for that transaction. In some cases more than one option may work; however, there is usually one single best option in terms of price, time savings, and administrative costs. These methods are listed below in the order in which you should consider using them.

In addition, the Quick-Start Guide includes helpful information on everything from U-M’s buying processes to training courses, all intended to support your local purchasing efforts!