First article testing, explained

When an RFQ requires first article testing (FAT), you must produce a sample, the first article, and have it tested and approved before the rest of the order ships. It is common for parts where a bad batch could be costly or dangerous.

What it involves

• Producing or sourcing a sample that meets every requirement.
• Testing it, either by you (contractor testing) or by the government (government testing), as the RFQ specifies.
• Waiting for approval before production delivery begins.

What it costs

• Time: testing and approval can take weeks or months, so the delivery schedule is longer, and so is the wait to be paid.
• Money: the test itself, extra samples, and the risk that a rejected first article has to be redone.

When it can be waived

Contracting officers can waive first article testing in some cases, for example when an offeror has already supplied an acceptable version of the same item. RFQs that allow this usually say how to ask. If you are new to an item, plan on doing the test.

Should a beginner bid?

Usually not on a first bid. Start with items that do not require it, and come back to first article buys once you have reliable suppliers and some cash cushion.

Sources

• FAR Subpart 9.3, first article testing and approval

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