Many sellers who register on GeM never win an order. The reason is rarely the product. It is usually a missed detail in the bid. These habits help you qualify technically and compete sensibly.
1. Bid only where you truly fit
Read eligibility, specifications and delivery terms first. A bid you cannot fulfil wastes effort and can hurt your seller record.
2. Read the entire bid document
Special conditions, delivery period, warranty, installation, penalties and testing requirements are often buried in the document. Read it line by line before you decide to bid.
3. Keep documents organised and valid
Maintain a folder with current certificates, test reports, OEM authorisations, experience proofs and declarations. Expired or missing documents are among the most common reasons for technical rejection.
4. Match your product to the specification
Quote exactly what the bid asks for. If your product differs, do not hope it will be accepted. Evaluate honestly whether you qualify.
5. Price with discipline
In many bids the lowest valid price (often called L1) wins. Work out your full cost: product, GST, freight, packing, installation, margin and any bid security. Do not quote below a price you cannot sustain, because a loss-making order damages your business and your performance record.
6. Understand EMD and benefits
Some bids require bid security (EMD). MSEs and DPIIT-recognised startups may get exemptions or relaxations depending on the bid terms. Check the bid document to see exactly what applies.
7. Plan for reverse auctions
Decide your floor price before the auction starts, so you do not make emotional decisions under time pressure.
8. Deliver well on your first orders
Timely delivery, proper packing and clean invoicing build your seller record and make later bids easier.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Uploading unsigned or unclear documents
- Wrong GST rate or arithmetic errors in the price
- Missing the bid end date or time
- Ignoring delivery and warranty conditions
No one can guarantee a win, because competition and buyer needs decide the result. What you can control is qualifying cleanly and pricing wisely.