Combined Synopsis and Solicitation

A combined synopsis and solicitation is a single SAM.gov posting that simultaneously serves as the public presolicitation notice and the formal solicitation, used primarily for commercial item acquisitions to streamline the procurement process.

What is a Combined Synopsis and Solicitation?

Under FAR 12.603, agencies procuring commercial items using simplified acquisition procedures may publish a combined synopsis and solicitation on SAM.gov. This combined posting eliminates the requirement for separate presolicitation and solicitation notices, compressing the procurement timeline and reducing administrative burden for both the agency and vendors.

The combined synopsis and solicitation must include:

• Description of the supplies or services in sufficient detail
• Applicable NAICS code and small business size standard
• Set-aside status (if applicable)
• Contract type and anticipated period of performance
• Place of delivery and acceptance
• Evaluation criteria and award basis
• Submission instructions for quotes or offers
• Required representations and certifications
• Applicable FAR clauses (often incorporated by reference for commercial items)

This notice type is most commonly seen for commercial item procurements below the simplified acquisition threshold ($250,000), but can be used for larger commercial purchases as well. The required posting period before closing for quote submission is generally at least 15 days (though FAR 5.203 can reduce this for urgent commercial needs).

Why Combined Synopsis and Solicitation matters for government contractors

Combined synopsis and solicitation postings are extremely common for small and mid-size commercial purchases, office supplies, IT equipment, professional services, and routine maintenance. Because they compress the timeline and reduce paperwork, agencies use them frequently for straightforward buys. Contractors who monitor SAM.gov for these notices often encounter shorter response windows than traditional RFPs, making speed of response a competitive differentiator. Setting up SAM.gov keyword alerts for relevant NAICS codes ensures you catch combined synopsis and solicitation opportunities before the window closes. Many government contracting officers will specifically use this vehicle to buy off the shelf products and services quickly.

Example

The Department of Agriculture needs 200 laptop computers meeting specific technical specifications for a new field office. The total cost is estimated at $180,000, below the simplified acquisition threshold. The contracting officer posts a combined synopsis and solicitation on SAM.gov listing the laptop specifications, delivery location, 30-day delivery requirement, and requesting price quotations from any interested vendor within 15 days. Six vendors respond. The Agriculture Department awards a purchase order to the vendor offering the specified laptops at the lowest total price with confirmed delivery within 30 days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a combined synopsis and solicitation used for all commercial purchases?

No. Agencies use the combined form when they want to streamline the process, but they can also issue separate presolicitation and solicitation notices for commercial items if the complexity or value warrants it. Very large commercial procurements often use a traditional RFP process with separate notices.

What is the minimum response period for a combined synopsis and solicitation?

For procurements above the simplified acquisition threshold, the minimum is 15 days. For procurements below the simplified acquisition threshold for commercial items, agencies may set shorter windows, sometimes as few as 5 to 7 days for simple commodity purchases.

Can a combined synopsis and solicitation be used for set-asides?

Yes. A combined synopsis and solicitation can incorporate a small business set-aside, an 8(a) set-aside, or any other socioeconomic preference. The set-aside status is identified in the notice, and only eligible vendors may submit quotations.

How do I find combined synopsis and solicitation postings?

On SAM.gov, filter by "Notice Type: Combined Synopsis/Solicitation" along with your relevant NAICS codes. You can also set up email alerts for new postings matching your search criteria so you are notified immediately when a relevant opportunity is posted.