At the University of Massachusetts, our strength lies in the collaborative partnerships we build with our supplier community. As global trade dynamics evolve, tariffs have become a key consideration in procurement decisions, influencing costs and timelines. To ensure we continue working together effectively, we are sharing important UMass guidelines regarding tariff-related pricing.
Why These Guidelines Matter
Tariffs can significantly impact the pricing of goods. To maintain fairness and clarity in our purchasing processes, UMass requires suppliers to provide documentation verifying tariff-related costs before any price changes are approved. This approach protects both parties by ensuring that all adjustments are grounded in verified information, which helps us manage project and operational budgets responsibly.
Submitting Your Bid or Quote
When you prepare bids, contracts, or quotes for UMass, please:
- Clearly identify any elements subject to tariffs, associated HTS codes, and country of origin.
- Specify the exact tariff(s) applicable.
- Include the valuation date relevant to the tariff (for example, the value five days prior to bid opening). Please note: the applicable tariff values are subject to change based on the date the good arrives and goes through customs.
Providing this detailed information upfront enables timely evaluations and enhances transparency, setting a strong foundation for our procurement partnership.
Requesting a Price Adjustment
We recognize that market conditions fluctuate, and when tariffs change, pricing may need to reflect these changes. Here’s how adjustments are handled with UMass:
- Once Purchase Order terms are set and items have shipped, prices are firm and cannot be altered.
- If you need a price adjustment based on a tariff change, your contract allows for price changes if shipment has not yet occurred. To request a price adjustment, submit a written request to A&FSupport@umassp.edu that includes:
- A detailed cost breakdown showing how tariffs impact the overall product cost.
- Official importer receipts or customs documentation confirming tariff payment and relevant dates.
- A clear explanation of how tariffs directly affect the goods or components under contract.
- UMass always reserves the right to cancel any orders subject to price changes that were not permitted in the original contract, bid, or quote.
This process ensures that adjustments are fair and substantiated, helping us maintain equitable partnerships.
We’re Here to Help
We understand that tariffs and customs can be complex. Our procurement team is ready to support you—please reach out with any questions at A&FSupport@umassp.edu or visit the Tariff Guidelines for UMass Suppliers for more information.
Thank you for your cooperation and commitment to working with UMass.