Upphandlas

Upphandlas is a Swedish term that means goods, services or works are procured through a formal purchasing process, typically by a public or private buyer. The verb form arises from upphandla, meaning to procure or arrange a purchase, with upp- forming a passive sense: “is procured.”

In practice, upphandlas is most common in public sector contexts. In Sweden and the EU, public procurement is governed by rules designed to ensure transparency, non-discrimination, proportionality and equal treatment. A contracting authority describes its needs, invites bids, evaluates proposals and awards a contract. Purchases may be made through framework agreements, lot divisions, or prequalification procedures.

The term can also apply in private sector procurement, though the legal framework is less stringent. Regardless of setting, a competitive and documented process is typical to secure value for money and accountability.

Typical steps include needs assessment, specification of requirements, selection of a procedure (for example open, restricted, or negotiated), publication of notices, submission deadlines, bid evaluation, award decision, contract signature and subsequent contract management. Upphandlade contracts can cover goods (equipment, IT), services (maintenance, consulting) and works (construction).

Key considerations involve ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations, transparency of the process, and prevention of conflicts of interest. In public contexts, procedures are often aligned with national procurement laws and, where applicable, EU directives. The term upphandlas underlines the transition from a need to a formalized contract that governs the acquisition.