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FAR and DFARS › FAR Part 16: Types of Contracts › Subpart 16.5

FAR 16.502 Definite-quantity contracts.

The codified text (eCFR, as of 2026-10-02). Under the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul ↗, agencies follow class deviations with new text for many parts while the formal rules go through the Federal Register: check the solicitation and your contract's clauses, which rule.

In plain English

This section describes a definite-quantity contract, which requires delivery of a set quantity of specific supplies or services over a fixed period, with deliveries scheduled at designated locations upon order. It may be used only when the need for a definite quantity during the contract period can be determined in advance and the supplies or services are regularly available or available after a short lead time.

Applies to: Contracting officers considering use of a definite-quantity contract

Key terms: definite-quantity contract · fixed period · designated locations · lead time

Written by AI from this section's text. A guide, not legal advice: the text below rules.

The text

(a) Description. A definite-quantity contract provides for delivery of a definite quantity of specific supplies or services for a fixed period, with deliveries or performance to be scheduled at designated locations upon order.

(b) Application. A definite-quantity contract may be used when it can be determined in advance that (1) a definite quantity of supplies or services will be required during the contract period and (2) the supplies or services are regularly available or will be available after a short lead time.

← 16.501-2 General. · 16.503 Requirements contracts. →

Rule changes for FAR Part 16

Source: eCFR, 48 CFR chapters 1 and 2 (GPO GovInfo bulk data) ↗. Plain words for the terms: glossary.

FAR 16.502 Definite-quantity contracts · SpendQuery