How Long Does It Really Take to Get a GSA Contract – and How to Shorten the Process
A GSA contract is one of the most effective ways for a company to enter the U.S. federal marketplace. It allows businesses to sell products and services directly to government agencies at pre-negotiated prices. Working with a GSA expert can make this process more manageable and ensure compliance at every step. Once awarded, a GSA Schedule gives vendors stable and long-term access to a wide range of federal buyers, creating consistent revenue opportunities and helping companies build credibility in the public sector.
However, obtaining a GSA contract is not a quick and simple process. While the system is designed to simplify procurement for the government, the approval process itself involves multiple steps, detailed documentation, and strict compliance requirements. For most businesses, the timeline from preparation to award typically takes between six and twelve months. For more complex offers or companies new to federal contracting, the process can take even longer.
Founded in 2006, Price Reporter is a team of GSA experts with years of experience helping businesses obtain, manage, and maintain their federal contracts. The company has successfully supported over a thousand contractors in entering the government market by simplifying each stage of the GSA Schedule process and reducing approval timelines.
This article explains how long it really takes to secure a GSA contract and what practical steps businesses can take to reduce that timeframe. By understanding each phase of the process and preparing properly, companies can avoid common delays and move closer to winning their first government contract more efficiently.
Typical GSA Contract Timeline
The process of obtaining a GSA contract usually takes from six to twelve months. The exact duration depends on several factors such as the accuracy of documentation, the company’s internal readiness, and the workload of GSA reviewers. Simpler service-based offers can be approved in about three to six months, while complex, product-heavy submissions may take a year or longer.
Below is a breakdown of the three main phases of the process and what each one involves:
Preparation and Registration (1–3 months):
- Register your business on SAM.gov, obtain a Unique Entity ID (UEI), and confirm your CAGE Code.
- Gather all required financial, technical, and compliance documentation.
- Errors or omissions during registration often cause the first major delays.
Offer Submission via eOffer (3–6 months):
