Mantelverträge

Mantelverträge are long-term procurement arrangements between a buyer and one or more suppliers that establish the general terms for future purchases of goods or services. They set a price framework, discount structures, delivery terms, service levels and administrative rules, but do not specify exact quantities or delivery dates. Individual orders are placed under the framework as needs arise, with separate specifications, quantities and delivery timelines.

In practice, Mantelverträge function as a form of framework agreement and are widely used in both public and private sectors to streamline procurement. The main advantages are speed and predictability, reduced administrative effort, and potential cost savings through centralized negotiation and long-term planning. The framework acts as a contractual shell within which specific orders are issued (call-offs).

Legal and procurement context: In Germany, Mantelverträge fall under general procurement law and must conform to the principles of competition, transparency and equal treatment. For public authorities, the initial conclusion of a framework must be justified by need, and individual call-offs may still require competition or be subject to a streamlined procedure depending on value and scope. The use of Mantelverträge does not automatically exempt from tendering; the competitive process is typically relevant for the specific orders placed under the framework.

Important distinction: Mantelverträge are sometimes confused with Manteltarifvertrag, but the latter refers to a collective bargaining agreement covering working conditions and wages, not procurement.

Mantelverträge are commonly used in sectors such as IT, maintenance, facility management and office supplies, where recurring, similar acquisitions benefit from standardized terms and pricing over multiple years.