FAQ's:

Contract Supplier / Supplier Set Up / Supplier Payments

A contract supplier is a vendor that USC departments are strongly encouraged to use. Contract suppliers are those with which the university has a negotiated agreement that includes price discounts, simplified ordering methods, convenient delivery arrangements, specialized customer service requirements, and preferred billing payment methods. The university could have as few as one contract supplier or up to four contract suppliers within each commodity group.

A complete Contract Supplier List is posted on the Purchasing Services website. 

Whenever possible, contract suppliers should be used. Many contract-suppliers participate in the Trojan E-Market. The Contract Supplier List can also be referenced.

To find out if a supplier is set up (this includes contract suppliers and all other suppliers established to do business at USC), log on to WEBBA and go the WEBBA.VENDOR.I process. Enter one of the following: the supplier name, the address, phone number, or Federal Tax ID number. If the supplier is not found, the supplier must be set up before being used.

Before establishing a new supplier, please make an effort to use a contract supplier or an already established entity. Many contract-suppliers participate in the forthcoming Trojan E-Market. The Contract Supplier List can also be referenced.

New suppliers must complete a Supplier Application Form. Upon review and approval from Purchasing Services, the Supplier will be established. Note that in early 2005, the Supplier Application Form will be automated.

To access suppliers who are classified as 'disadvantaged' and preferred by the university, contact Supplier Diversity Services. USC has a goal to procure 15% of all purchases with disadvantaged businesses. Please use a preferred disadvantaged business whenever feasible.