How to Apply for Different Lots in a Tender Using e-PADS

When participating in a tender with multiple lots through e-PADS, it's crucial to understand the process to ensure a successful submission. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Register & Log In

• Ensure your company is registered on e-PADS.
• Log in using your credentials.

Step 2: Search for the Tender

• Go to the Tender Notices section.
• Use filters to find the tender relevant to your business.

Step 3: Review Tender Details

• Click on the tender to see the lots available.
• Check the eligibility criteria and estimated amount for each lot.

Step 4: Prepare Separate Bids for Each Lot

• Every lot requires a separate bid submission, meaning you must upload separate documents and click submit separately for each lot.
• Ensure your technical & financial proposals are aligned with the lot requirements.

Step 5: Prepare Bid Security Separately (If Required)

• Each lot requires a separate bid security.
• Before submission, check the minimum bid security amount entered by the procuring agency.
• A lower bid security amount may cause issues, as e-PADS might reject your submission if it's below the required threshold.
• This is a critical area where e-PADS should introduce flexibility, allowing bidders to adjust bid security amounts instead of facing outright rejection.

Step 6: Submit the Bid for Each Lot Separately

• After uploading documents, submit each lot separately by clicking the Submit button for each lot individually.

Step 7: Track Your Bid & Respond to Queries

• Monitor your bid status in the e-PADS dashboard.
• Respond to any clarifications from the procuring agency.

Step 8: Check Results & Next Steps

• Got confirmation from the concerned officer of procuring agency before deadline.
• Stay updated on bid opening results.
• If awarded, proceed with contract formalities.

Final Thoughts

While e-PADS has improved transparency and efficiency in public procurement, the system could be enhanced by allowing adjustments to bid security amounts, from estimated amount of procuring agency,instead of outright rejection for lower amounts. This would improve bidder convenience and reduce unnecessary delays.

Have you faced similar challenges while bidding on multiple lots? Share your thoughts in the comments!