Types of Purchase Orders
Blanket Orders are primary source agreements designed to accommodate campus needs on an on-going basis for a specified period of time. They usually specify a category of products and/or services that can be purchased, a maximum dollar amount, and a time period based on the fiscal year (July 1st through June 30th). If you expect to need products and/or services from the same vendor more than once or twice during the fiscal year and your order qualifies, please submit a requisition for a blanket purchase order. Using only one purchase order for the entire year is the most efficient way to pay for multiple purchases. Blanket Purchase Orders for commodities cannot be over $50,000 and you should check with Procurement staff before requesting any service type Blanket Purchase Orders.
Change orders are official changes made to a purchase order. Most change orders are done to increase or decrease the dollar amount on a blanket order; change the unit price, quantity, or description on an order; add a new item; or cancel a line item, purchase order or requisition entirely. If you need to change anything on a purchase order, please send an email to procurement requesting the change.
Emergency orders are authorized only in the event of life, health, or property threatening situations. They must be processed through Procurement and Contract Services during regular working hours. Any emergency commitments made by a department outside of normal campus office hours and the corresponding services rendered or commodities provided by a vendor or contractor must be made known to the Director of Procurement and Contract Services at the earliest opportunity. Such commitments must be for valid emergencies only and must fit the definition described above. Personal liability damages can be sought by the campus or by the State for misrepresentation of an emergency situation.
Even with the best planning, unexpected needs arise. Rush orders are those products or services needed immediately, but are not life, health, or property threatening situations. Lack of planning does not make it a Rush Order. Also, Rush Orders will be handled and evaluated on a case by case basis.
