APTA BTS-BPG-GL-001-13
This guideline is intended to serve as the foundation and template for your “request for proposal.” The automated version contains a zip folder of resources which downloads directly to your local PC/laptop.
Automated White Book (for Revision 3):
To simplify the selection process, APTA has created an automated and interactive version of the White Book documents for procurement of 35-45’ buses. The automated specification allows procurement officers to select specific technical and contract options in Excel spreadsheets, then integrate into a Word document. Please note, if you are looking to procure a 60’ or commuter bus, use the traditional link above.
Standard Bus Procurement Guidelines
Abstract
This document provides a standardized template for bus procurement request for proposals for 35’-60’ transit and commuter buses of various propulsion types. The goal of creating a common method for transit bus procurements is to save time and effort for the parties and to standardize contract terms. It also permits new provisions or evolving best practices to be incorporated into the standard contract efficiently and in a manner designed to benefit the entire industry.
Keywords: bus, commuter bus, compressed natural gas bus, diesel bus, electric bus, hybrid bus, procurement, request for proposals, transit bus
Summary
Many industries have standard forms of contracts for the acquisition of goods and services. Buyers and sellers in those industries become familiar and comfortable with those forms. The goal of creating a common method of contracting enables participants to focus, when necessary, on negotiating only those issues for which a departure from the accepted norm is necessary or desirable. This approach will save considerable time and effort for the parties to a particular transaction. It also permits new provisions or evolving best practices to be incorporated into the standard contract for that industry efficiently and in a manner designed to benefit the entire industry. Finally, standardization leads to a consistency of interpretation that presumably should reduce the number of contract disputes and result in better prices for both the public and private sectors.
Document History
| Document Number | Version | Publication Date | Publication | Related Information |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| APTA BTS-BPG-GL-001-13 | Rev. 4 | 06/08/2026 | Published | Current |
| APTA BTS-BPG-GL-001-13 | Rev. 3 | 05/13/2025 | Published | Superseded |
| APTA BTS-BPG-GL-001-13 | Rev. 2.2 | 08/4/2022 | Published | Superseded |
| APTA BTS-BPG-GL-001-13 | Rev. 2.1 | 06/8/2021 | Published | Superseded |
| APTA BTS-BPG-GL-001-13 | Rev. 2 | 04/30/2021 | Published | Superseded |
| APTA BTS-BPG-GL-001-13 | Rev. 1 | 05/23/2013 | Published | Superseded |
Get Involved
To learn how to join the Standard Bus Procurement Guidelines Working Group or suggest changes to the White Book, contact standards@apta.com.