Procurement

International Shipping

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With the expansion of international activities and research projects at the University, UBS, Export Control, and Tax and Compliance have noted increased concerns from departments regarding international shipping, such as customs-related delays.

Here are some helpful reminders and considerations for international shipping:

  • Shippers/Shipping Suppliers
    • FedEx/UPS: FedEx/UPS: Accounts Payable manages the billing and payment of shipping providers like UPS and FedEx. You can find instructions to set up an account with FedEx/UPS and manage billing through Accounts Payable here.
    • Nippon Express: Departments can utilize Nippon Express as a customs broker, to handle all necessary documentation and ensure smooth customs clearance for international shipments.  They also provide specialized handling for hazardous and sensitive items in consideration of international regulations.
  • Shipping Considerations
    • Is the item hazardous/dangerous?
    • Does the item require any specific licenses?
    • Have I completed all customs documentation accurately? Missing or incorrect information can lead to significant delays
    • Am I aware of the destination country’s regulations regarding restricted or prohibited items? Shipping restricted goods can result in delays, fines, or the return of the shipment.

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Announcing Bid Threshold Increases and Prequalification Process Changes

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University Business Services has worked with Government Relations and other state entities including UConn Health, Connecticut State Colleges and Universities system, and the Department of Administrative Services, to propose Bill SB1184 to increase to the State of Connecticut’s public bid thresholds and simplify the prequalification process for construction contractors.

Changes will be implemented on October 1, 2023.

For more details read the full announcement.

Guidelines for Surplus & Equipment Share Opportunities

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The terms and conditions of sponsored awards may have specific requirements for the acquisition of equipment, such as the National Science Foundation, which requires that before equipment is purchased the grantee assures the same or similar equipment is not otherwise reasonably available and accessible. Further, 2 CFR OMB part 200 Uniform Guidance 200.318 lays out the requirements for equipment purchases with federal funds. The rationale for these regulations is that shared use of existing equipment promotes availability of equipment on university campuses, reduces unnecessary duplication of equipment, and frees up federal funds to further the aims and objectives of the award.

For more information download Guidelines for Surplus & Equipment Share Opportunities.

ACQUIRING COVID-19 PROTECTION ITEMS

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Faculty, staff and researchers who cannot do their jobs from home and are approved by a department head or dean can submit requests through online web forms for face masks, hand sanitizer, pre-packaged disinfectant spray with paper towels and gloves through University Business Services. Other PPE can also be obtained during the normal procurement process through HuskyBuy. The provisions apply to employees at the Storrs and regional campuses, along with the agricultural extension offices.  For additional information please visit : https://uconn.edu/public-notification/coronavirus/covid-19-campus-operations/

 

Introducing SMBeConnect

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SMBe Connect

UConn's SMBeConnect Tool

UConn Procurement Services has launched a new SMBeConnect tool on our Supplier Diversity (USDP) website. It is designed, primarily, to assist small/minority business enterprises (S/MBEs) seeking to conduct business here at the University, by connecting them directly with the buying team responsible for managing their particular commodity(ies).

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Fraudulent Toner Activity Alert

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Procurement Services has recently been made aware of fraudulent activity relating to the “alleged” purchase of toner, printing supplies and/or service.  It appears that someone has been calling departments on campus to discuss a “placed” order and seeking to verify address delivery information.   Please be advised that this is fraudulent and you should not provide such requested information.    Continue reading →