GSA awards $8,160 contract for HP toner cartridges, highlighting standard yield and OEM genuine quality

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $8,160 ($8.2K)

Contractor: Supplies NOW Inc

Awarding Agency: General Services Administration

Start Date: 2026-04-02

End Date: 2026-04-08

Contract Duration: 6 days

Daily Burn Rate: $1.4K/day

Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Pricing Type: FIXED PRICE WITH ECONOMIC PRICE ADJUSTMENT

Sector: Other

Official Description: CARTRIDGE,TONERAME CARTRIDGE, TONER I.A.W. HEWLETT PACKARD P/NW2010A (HP 659A) CARTRIDGE TYPE NEW (OEM GENUINE) SPECIALFEATURES STANDARD YIELDCARTRIDGE FORUSE WITH HP LASERJET M856DN, M776Z, M856X, M776ZSAND MFP M776DN PRINTER SERIES ANDANY OTHER PRI

Place of Performance

Location: GREENACRES, PALM BEACH County, FLORIDA, 33463

State: Florida Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

General Services Administration obligated $8,160 to SUPPLIES NOW INC for work described as: CARTRIDGE,TONERAME CARTRIDGE, TONER I.A.W. HEWLETT PACKARD P/NW2010A (HP 659A) CARTRIDGE TYPE NEW (OEM GENUINE) SPECIALFEATURES STANDARD YIELDCARTRIDGE FORUSE WITH HP LASERJET M856DN, M776Z, M856X, M776ZSAND MFP M776DN PRINTER SERIES ANDANY OTHER PRI Key points: 1. Value for money assessed based on market comparison for standard yield OEM toner. 2. Competition dynamics indicate a full and open process for this supplies contract. 3. Risk indicators are low given the nature of the commodity and established vendor. 4. Performance context is a short-term call against a broader BPA. 5. Sector positioning is within the office supplies category, a common federal procurement area.

Value Assessment

Rating: good

The contract value of $8,160 for 6 months appears reasonable for standard yield OEM toner cartridges. While specific per-unit pricing isn't provided, the fixed-price with economic price adjustment structure allows for some market fluctuation. Benchmarking against similar GSA Schedule purchases for HP 659A cartridges would provide a more precise value assessment, but the quantity and duration suggest a routine operational need.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: full-and-open

This contract was awarded under full and open competition, suggesting multiple vendors had the opportunity to bid. The specific number of bidders is not detailed, but the open competition is a positive sign for price discovery and ensuring the government receives competitive pricing. This approach is standard for commodity items procured through GSA schedules.

Taxpayer Impact: Full and open competition generally leads to better pricing for taxpayers by fostering a competitive environment among suppliers.

Public Impact

Federal agencies utilizing HP LaserJet M856DN, M776Z, M856X, M776ZS, and M776DN printers benefit from a reliable supply of toner. The contract ensures operational continuity for printing needs within the government. Geographic impact is likely nationwide, as GSA schedules serve various federal entities. Workforce implications are minimal, primarily supporting administrative and printing functions.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Potential for price increases due to economic price adjustment clause if market conditions shift unfavorably.
Reliance on a single OEM product line may limit long-term cost-saving opportunities through alternative compatible supplies.

Positive Signals

Use of OEM genuine cartridges ensures compatibility and print quality, reducing risks of equipment damage or poor output.
Award through GSA schedule streamlines procurement and leverages existing contract vehicles for efficiency.

Sector Analysis

The federal spending on office supplies, including printer consumables like toner cartridges, represents a significant but stable segment of government procurement. This contract falls within the broader 'Office Supplies (except Paper) Manufacturing' NAICS code. The market is characterized by major manufacturers and a network of resellers and distributors, with GSA Schedules serving as a primary channel for federal agencies to acquire these items efficiently and at competitive prices.

Small Business Impact

While this specific award does not indicate a small business set-aside, the broader GSA Schedules program often includes opportunities for small businesses to participate as prime contractors or subcontractors. The nature of toner cartridge supply can involve both large manufacturers and smaller distributors, and the overall competition level on GSA Schedules can indirectly benefit small businesses by creating a more dynamic market.

Oversight & Accountability

Oversight for this contract is managed by the General Services Administration (GSA), Federal Acquisition Service. As a call against a Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA), it falls under the existing oversight framework of the parent BPA. Transparency is maintained through federal procurement databases like FPDS. Inspector General jurisdiction would apply in cases of fraud, waste, or abuse.

Related Government Programs

GSA Schedules Program
Office Supplies Procurement
HP Printer Supplies
Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPAs)

Risk Flags

Economic Price Adjustment Clause: Potential for cost increases.
OEM Dependency: Reliance on specific manufacturer's supplies may limit long-term cost optimization.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

General Services Administration awarded $8,160 to SUPPLIES NOW INC. CARTRIDGE,TONERAME CARTRIDGE, TONER I.A.W. HEWLETT PACKARD P/NW2010A (HP 659A) CARTRIDGE TYPE NEW (OEM GENUINE) SPECIALFEATURES STANDARD YIELDCARTRIDGE FORUSE WITH HP LASERJET M856DN, M776Z, M856X, M776ZSAND MFP M776DN PRINTER SERIES ANDANY OTHER PRI

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is SUPPLIES NOW INC.

Which agency awarded this contract?

Awarding agency: General Services Administration (Federal Acquisition Service).

What is the total obligated amount?

The obligated amount is $8,160.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2026-04-02. End: 2026-04-08.

What is the historical spending pattern for HP 659A toner cartridges or similar items under GSA Schedules?

Historical spending data for specific toner cartridges like the HP 659A under GSA Schedules can be complex to isolate without direct access to detailed procurement databases. However, federal agencies consistently procure printer consumables through GSA Schedules, with annual spending often in the millions of dollars across various toner models and brands. The General Services Administration (GSA) manages numerous contracts for office supplies, and specific models like this are frequently reordered to maintain operational readiness. Analyzing past awards for similar standard yield, OEM genuine toner cartridges from major brands (e.g., HP, Canon, Brother) would reveal trends in pricing, volume, and vendor participation. This contract's value ($8,160 over 6 months) suggests a moderate demand, typical for a specific printer model within a single or small group of agencies, rather than a large-scale enterprise-wide deployment.

How does the pricing of this contract compare to market rates for similar OEM toner cartridges?

Direct comparison of this contract's pricing to external market rates requires knowing the exact per-unit price, which is not provided in the summary data. However, the contract is for 'standard yield' and 'OEM genuine' HP 659A cartridges. GSA Schedule pricing is generally expected to be competitive, reflecting negotiated discounts. To assess value, one would compare the per-unit cost to prices found on major online retailers (e.g., Amazon, CDW, Staples) or other government contract vehicles. If the GSA price is significantly higher than retail or other contract prices, it might indicate a less favorable negotiation or a need to re-evaluate the contract's terms. Conversely, if it aligns with or beats market rates, it demonstrates effective price competition through the GSA vehicle.

What are the potential risks associated with procuring OEM toner cartridges versus compatible or remanufactured options?

Procuring Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) toner cartridges, like the HP 659A specified here, primarily mitigates risks related to printer compatibility and performance. OEM cartridges are designed by the printer manufacturer to work seamlessly with their devices, ensuring optimal print quality, reliability, and avoiding potential damage to printer components. The main risks with compatible or remanufactured cartridges include potential issues with print quality, lower page yields, higher failure rates, and possible voiding of printer warranties. However, the primary risk associated with choosing OEM is typically a higher cost compared to non-OEM alternatives. This contract's specification for OEM genuine cartridges prioritizes reliability and compatibility over potential cost savings from third-party options.

What is the typical duration and value range for similar GSA Schedule BPA calls for office supplies?

Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA) calls for office supplies under GSA Schedules can vary widely in duration and value, but this contract's parameters offer a typical snapshot. A 6-month duration is common for consumable items where demand can fluctuate or needs are assessed periodically. The value of $8,160 is moderate, suggesting it covers the needs of a specific office, department, or a limited number of users for a defined period. Larger, multi-year BPA calls might extend for several years and reach hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars if they cover enterprise-wide needs or large quantities. Shorter durations and smaller values, like this one, are often used to manage inventory, respond to immediate operational requirements, or test vendor performance before committing to longer-term agreements.

How does the 'Fixed Price with Economic Price Adjustment' (FPEPA) clause impact the cost predictability for this contract?

The 'Fixed Price with Economic Price Adjustment' (FPEPA) clause introduces a degree of cost uncertainty compared to a firm fixed price contract. While the base price is fixed, the FPEPA allows for adjustments based on specified economic factors, typically changes in the cost of labor or materials, often tied to an index (like the Consumer Price Index or specific industry indices). For this toner cartridge contract, it means the price could increase if the cost of raw materials or manufacturing for these specific HP cartridges rises significantly. This clause provides some protection to the contractor against unforeseen market fluctuations, ensuring continued supply. However, it introduces variability for the government, making precise budget forecasting more challenging than with a firm fixed price. The extent of potential price change is usually capped or governed by specific formulas within the contract.

Industry Classification

NAICS: Manufacturing › Other Miscellaneous Manufacturing › Office Supplies (except Paper) Manufacturing

Product/Service Code: OFFICE SUPPLIES AND DEVICES

Competition & Pricing

Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Solicitation Procedures: SUBJECT TO MULTIPLE AWARD FAIR OPPORTUNITY

Pricing Type: FIXED PRICE WITH ECONOMIC PRICE ADJUSTMENT (K)

Evaluated Preference: NONE

Contractor Details

Address: 3900 WOODLAKE BLVD, GREENACRES, FL, 33463

Business Categories: Category Business, Corporate Entity Not Tax Exempt, Small Business, Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $8,160

Exercised Options: $8,160

Current Obligation: $8,160

Contract Characteristics

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES

Parent Contract

Parent Award PIID: 47QSSC26A0005

IDV Type: BPA

Timeline