Becoming a passenger transport operator

Already on an approved supplier? Check out our frequently asked questions here, where we've provided guidance and advice tailored to you.    

Step 1: Becoming an approved supplier 

The first step to becoming a passenger transport operator for the council is to become what we call an 'approved supplier'. This involves joining the council’s framework, also known as the Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS).   

What is the DPS? 

The DPS is a pre-approval process that transport operators must pass before being accepted as potential providers for home to school transport, social services transport or supported local bus services.   

You must complete a number of online questionnaires, which are used to determine your suitability. Providers who meet the required quality standard move onto a list of 'approved suppliers' who are invited to tender for routes as and when they become available. Individual routes are tendered via what we call 'call-off mini competitions'. Currently, this involves you being invited to bid for a route via email. 

The system lets new entrants join at any time. Read about the rules of the DPS here. 

The DPS is used to find transport for a number of different services which are categorised under 'lots'. Learn more about lots here.    

'Approved Supplier’ status means that, at the time of an application to join the DPS, the operator met the minimum standards required to be accepted onto the DPS and committed to meet the additional standards required to operate a council call-off contract, in the event that a contract is awarded to them.  

• Read a general overview of the DPS and key steps involved in becoming an approved supplier here. 

• Find step by step guidance on the application process here. 

  

Step 2: Participating in call-off mini competitions 

Once you become an approved supplier, you will be invited to tender (ITT) for opportunities within each lot you have joined as and when opportunities for work within the lot are available.    

The ITT will be conducted via email. If you are successful in winning the mini competition, you will receive a letter/email confirming that you have been awarded the contract.    

The following information is not exhaustive and should be read in conjunction with our Terms and Conditions here and the General Specification here.

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