The MSBO transitioned the Bus Purchase Program to a web based platform that can be accessed via the Internet. All the features and benefits that Michigan districts have enjoyed since the program’s inception 15 years ago remain, plus there is significant additional functionality.
The program is now more user friendly than ever. Because the program is web based, all information you enter into the system will be saved. You don’t need to worry about exiting and losing the data entered. Just return and resume where you left off. You can also access your buses from last year and have those same buses reflect this year’s pricing, eliminating you having to re-do your work from last year, saving even more time.
Additionally, dealers are now able to enter stock buses in the program to allow districts to compare those buses within the program and make a more informed decision.
Another change for this year is the timing of the bid. We will now be going out to bid twice each year to provide availability of the program when it works best for districts’ individual needs. The program will be active for purchasing October through January and April through July.
Getting Started
Click here to get started. This program makes bidding and ordering buses extremely simple and smooth. The bidding has been accomplished for you; all that is left is to “build” the bus desired and compare pricing from the four bidding dealers. The program provides extensive flexibility and customization – there are over 275 options available, allowing you to customize your bus to fit your district’s needs. It automatically keeps a running subtotal of all dealer prices as you select various options.
We’ve changed the platform for the program, but the rigorous process to develop the bid remains the same. Each year in advance of the bid, a committee of experienced transportation directors reviews the program. The base specifications and the options are analyzed and modified as needed. Bus dealers are also involved in the process to ensure the committee is aware of the newest developments in the school bus industry.
The goal of the committee is to provide a base specification that ensures an extremely high quality, safe bus. There are many districts that don’t have the experience necessary in this area and they can be assured that if they order a bus from this program, it will be top quality.
It is not a sole source bid process. Districts can compare and choose among the four dealers, who represent International, Blue Bird, and Thomas/Freightliner.
The program offers an extensive help menu listing instructions, dealer contact information, base specifications and options. Conventional, Special Needs, Transit Rear Engine, Transit Front Engine, A-II, and BE style buses are all offered in the program.
MSBO has continued to keep the administrative fee low at $100 per bus, with a maximum of $1,000 per district per year.
For questions or more information regarding the bus purchasing program, call Scott Little at 517.327.2582 or Pat Korloch at 517.327.5920.