How to write Specifications for a Shuttle Bus?

• Ask a bus dealer you trust to assist in the process. Carpenter Bus Sales is happy to assist you with the specifications and floor plans

• Ask peers who have experience.• Understand bus quality standards and

manufacturer reputations.• Make the Specification both Effective and

Concise.• Keep it Simple. (3 pages maximum)• Include a floor plan with the bid

specifications.

Determine What is Needed?

Discuss and define needs:UsesClimate – (This will determine the A/C & heat requirements)Passengers – (Ambulatory & Wheelchair Stations)DriversOperating ExpensesBudget ConsiderationsVehicle Lifecycle

Vendor Requirements

• F.O.B. to my Location

• On Time Delivery or Penalties

• Disclose any and all deviations from specification. (Ask for bid exceptions on a separate page)

• Specific Capabilities (Full Service Shop, Parts Department, etc…)

• How long have they been in business?

• Get references from similar operations.

What to Watch!• Alternators• Batteries• Fast Idle• Air Conditioning• Heating• Seat Fabric• Flooring• Interior Wall Covering• Audio/Video• Aisle width• Suspension

• Lifts• Cargo capability• Engine & Transmission• Windows• Mirrors• Bumpers & Hitches• Seats (Low, Mid, or High

Back)• ADA & 403 Compliant• Wheel Chair Stations Tie-

downs• Foldaway seats @ Wheel

Chair Stations

Define Delivery Time• What is the anticipated time line for taking

delivery?

• Who can deliver on my terms?

• Are their consequences for non-performance?

• How late in the manufacturing process can I make changes?

After the Purchase

• Is the vendor close enough to use for service work?

• If not, what resources are available?

• Does my vendor have a program in place to assist me with service a warranty work locally?

• Is a loaner or rental vehicle available at the vendor’s service center?

Get the Results You Want!

• Manage the vendor process to get quality, value and great pricing.

• Weed out the casual bidders.

• Build a reputation for being a serious knowledgeable customer.

Contact Carpenter Bus Sales, Inc.

• Henry Headden

• 1-800-370-6180

• 1-615-376-2287

• 1-615-370-1774 Fax

• henry@carpenterbus.com

• www.carpenterbus.com