4

++-

**GSA/FSS**

Vendor Support Center

**Schedules Input Program (SIP)**

**Version 7.x Documentation**

January 17, 2007

**VSC-SIP-VER 2.0**

Table of Contents

[**1** **GENERAL INFORMATION 1-1**](#general-information)

[1.1 Introduction 1-1](#introduction)

[1.2 GSA *Advantage!* Overview 1-1](#gsa-advantage-overview)

[1.3 Schedules Input Program (SIP) 1-1](#schedules-input-program-sip)

[1.4 Vendor Support Center (VSC) 1-1](#vendor-support-center-vsc)

[1.5 GSA Contract Award 1-1](#gsa-contract-award)

[1.6 GSA *Advantage!* Catalog Upload Process
1-1](#gsa-advantage-catalog-upload-process)

[2 GETTING STARTED 2-1](#getting-started)

[2.1 SIP Registration 2-1](#sip-registration)

[3 SIP DATA ENTRY 3-1](#sip-data-entry)

[3.1 Contractor Information Screen 3-1](#contractor-information-screen)

[3.2 Primary Contract Information Screen
3-2](#primary-contract-information-screen)

[3.3 Product Information Screen 3-9](#product-information-screen)

[3.3.1 Quantity Volume Discount Breaks
3-10](#quantity-volume-discount-breaks)

[3.3.2 Dollar Volume Discount Breaks
3-11](#dollar-volume-discount-breaks)

[3.4 Accessories Information Screen
3-12](#accessories-information-screen)

[3.5 Options Information Screen 3-13](#options-information-screen)

[4 ADDING PRODUCT PHOTOS 4-15](#adding-product-photos)

[4.1 Adding Photos Using Product Information Screen
4-15](#adding-photos-using-product-information-screen)

[4.2 Adding Photos in the Photo Screen
4-16](#adding-photos-in-the-photo-screen)

[5 IMPORTING PRODUCTS 5-17](#importing-products)

[5.1 Import Program Overview 5-17](#import-program-overview)

[5.2 Building Import Files 5-17](#building-import-files)

[5.3 Shortcut for Building Import Files
5-17](#shortcut-for-building-import-files)

[5.4 Adding Photos Using Spreadsheets
5-18](#adding-photos-using-spreadsheets)

[5.5 Importing Files into SIP 5-18](#importing-files-into-sip)

[6 ENTERING SERVICE CATALOG INFORMATION
6-1](#entering-service-catalog-information)

[6.1 Creating Text Files 6-1](#creating-text-files)

[6.2 Attaching Text Files to SIP 6-1](#attaching-text-files-to-sip)

[7 Uploading Catalog Information 7-1](#uploading-catalog-information)

[7.1 SIP Upload File Types 7-1](#sip-upload-file-types)

[7.2 Firewall Settings 7-1](#firewall-settings)

[7.3 SIP Upload Instructions 7-1](#sip-upload-instructions)

[7.4 Uploading/Using VSC Website 7-2](#uploadingusing-vsc-website)

[7.5 Website Upload Conditions 7-2](#website-upload-conditions)

[8 DOWNLOADING AND PROCESSING RESPONSE FILES
8-2](#downloading-and-processing-response-files)

[8.1 Downloading and Processing Files
8-3](#downloading-and-processing-files)

[8.2 Connectivity Errors 8-3](#connectivity-errors)

[9 BACKING UP AND RESTORING SIP DATA
9-5](#backing-up-and-restoring-sip-data)

[9.1 Backing up SIP Data 9-5](#backing-up-sip-data)

[9.2 Restoring SIP Data 9-5](#restoring-sip-data)

[10 UPGRADING SIP VERSION 10-6](#upgrading-sip-version)

[10.1 Upgrading SIP Version 6.x with Firewall
10-6](#upgrading-sip-version-6.x-with-firewall)

[10.2 Upgrading From SIP Version 5.2
10-6](#upgrading-from-sip-version-5.2)

[11 VENDOR SUPPORT CENTER CONTACT INFORMATION
11-6](#vendor-support-center-contact-information)

# GENERAL INFORMATION

## Introduction

The Schedules Input Program (SIP) Version 7.x Users Guide defines the
process, procedures and tools used to maintain and support the SIP
software by the General Services Administration/Federal Supply Services
(GSA/FSS) Vendor Support Center (VSC).

## GSA *Advantage!* Overview

GSA *Advantage!* is a web-based system used by vendors to provide their
products and/or services to government buyers. GSA *Advantage* allows
vendors to sell to the government without obtaining agency specific
contracts.

## Schedules Input Program (SIP)

SIP is a proprietary software program provided by GSA to assist contract
holders with uploading their electronic catalog.

## Vendor Support Center (VSC)

The VSC supports GSA contract holders that use SIP to upload their data.
The VSC also supports password related issues concerning e-Buy and
72(a).

## GSA Contract Award

Any contractor interested in providing products and/or services to the
government may benefit from obtaining a GSA contract. Most government
buyers use GSA *Advantage!* to search and shop for products and/or
services. Companies that wish to acquire a GSA contract must contact a
GSA Procurement Contracting Officer (PCO) to obtain the necessary
documentation. GSA e-Offers is another tool used to obtain a GSA
contract.

## GSA *Advantage!* Catalog Upload Process

After a contract is awarded, the contract must be registered with the
VSC. Following registration, a unique password will be assigned to the
contract. This password will be used for electronic catalog submission
via SIP. Catalog information is then entered into SIP and uploaded. The
PCO will receive the file and check for consistency between the
electronic file and the written contract. After verification and
approval in CORS (Contract Officer Review System) the file is posted in
GSA *Advantage*..

**Acronyms and Abbreviations**

The acronyms and abbreviations used in this document are listed and
defined in the table below.

  -----------------------------------------------------------------------
  **Acronym**    **Definition**
  -------------- --------------------------------------------------------
  ATSM/EPA       Acute Traumatic Stress Management/Environmental
                 Protection Agency

  CPG            Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines

  EDI            Electronic Data Interchange

  FOB            Free On Board

  FSS            Federal Supply Service

  FTP            File Transfer Protocol

  GBL            Government Bills of Lading

  GSA            General Services Administration

  MB             Megabyte

  NSN            National Stock Number

  PCO            Procurement Contracting Officer

  QYY/VOL        Quantity Volume

  SIN            Special Items Numbers

  SIP            Schedules Input Program

  VER            Version

  VSC            Vendor Support Center
  -----------------------------------------------------------------------

# GETTING STARTED

## SIP Registration

You must register your contract before you can upload your catalog. To
register, visit the VSC website at
([http://vsc.gsa.gov](http://vsc.gsa.gov/)).

![](media/image1.png){width="6.493055555555555in"
height="5.194444444444445in"}

Select "Getting on Advantage" → "Getting Started" → "Register Your
Contract". On the next screen, select the **SIP \| EDI** link. This will
bring up a contract number entry screen. Select the appropriate contract
type and enter the contract number.

The SIP registration form is shown below. All required information is
indicated by

an asterisk (\*):

![](media/image2.png){width="5.9944444444444445in"
height="4.261805555555555in"}

After registration is complete, a confirmation will be sent to the email
address provided. The confirmation will include a unique password used
for SIP uploads and access to GSA e-Buy!.

**SIP Download and Installation**

SIP can be downloaded from the VSC website
([http://vsc.gsa.gov](http://vsc.gsa.gov/)).

System requirements: Windows 95/98/2000/NT/XP Operating System, Pentium
II processor, 32 MB of RAM, internet capabilities and 12 MB of hard disk
space.

**\* Note -- Depending on the amount of product data, more disk space
may be required.**

![](media/image3.png){width="6.493055555555555in"
height="5.194444444444445in"}

The SIP program is available in two formats (.exe and .zip). The
download files are approximately 11.5 MB is size. Vendors with a slower
internet connection may want to download the .zip format.

![](media/image4.png){width="6.493055555555555in"
height="5.194444444444445in"}

**Step 1:** Download and install the .exe or .zip format.

**Step 2:** Select"Next" on each of the dialog boxes to accept the
default settings.

**Step 3:** Select "Finish" to complete the installation.

![](media/image5.jpeg){width="2.6145833333333335in"
height="1.9583333333333333in"}
![](media/image6.jpeg){width="2.6145833333333335in"
height="1.9583333333333333in"}

![](media/image7.jpeg){width="2.6145833333333335in"
height="1.9583333333333333in"}![](media/image8.jpeg){width="2.6145833333333335in"
height="1.9583333333333333in"}

# SIP DATA ENTRY

With a new installation of SIP, a dialog box will appear prompting you
to "Convert" or "Continue". If you are a new user select "Continue". If
upgrading from version 5.2C, select "Convert" (Refer to the SIP Upgrades
and Conversions section).

.

![](media/image9.jpeg){width="3.7395833333333335in"
height="1.9166666666666667in"}

If you have already registered, select "Already Registered". If you have
not registered, select "Register". After registering, you can import
your registration information into SIP. Begin with section 3.2 "Primary
Contract Information". If you selected "Already Registered" begin with
section 3.1 "Contractor Information".

## Contractor Information Screen

**Step 1:** Select "File" → "Open" → "Contractor" or select the
"Contractor" icon shown below.

![](media/image10.png){width="2.71875in"
height="0.9791666666666666in"}![](media/image10.png){width="2.71875in"
height="0.9791666666666666in"}

**Step 2:** Select "Add".\
\
**Step 3:** Enter contractor information and click "Save" at the top of
the program.

![](media/image11.jpeg){width="6.495833333333334in"
height="5.196527777777778in"}

**Please see the Index for field descriptions**

**Step 4:** Close the Contractor Information Screen.

## Primary Contract Information Screen 

**Step 1:** Select → "File" →"Open" → "Contracts" or select the
"Contracts" icon shown below.

![](media/image10.png){width="2.71875in" height="0.9791666666666666in"}

**Step 2:** Select "Add".\
\
**Step 3:** Enter all required and applicable contract information.

![](media/image12.jpeg){width="6.495833333333334in"
height="5.196527777777778in"}

**Please see the index for field descriptions**

**Step 4:** Select "Save" when finished.

**Step 5:** The SIN/Maximum Order screen will appear. Enter Special Item
Numbers (SIN\'s) and Maximum Order Limit(s).

![](media/image13.jpeg){width="6.493055555555555in"
height="4.957638888888889in"}

Some SIN may require "Sub SIN's" or sub-categories. Not all SIN have sub
SIN's. At least one of these sub SIN's must be selected (checked) in
order for the selected SIN to be saved.

NOTE: For each sub SIN selected, it must be attached to at least 1
product. For a list of SIN's that require sub SIN's please see the
index.

**Step 5:** Select "Save" and close the SIN/Maximum Order screen.\
\
**Step 6:** The Order/Payment Address screen will appear. If the address
for receiving orders and/or payments is the same as the address entered
in the "Contractor Screen", select the "Use Corporate Address" button to
auto fill the information. If not, enter the address information and
select "Save".

![](media/image14.jpeg){width="6.495138888888889in"
height="4.871527777777778in"}\
\
**Step 7:** Close Order/Payment Address screen.

**ZONES**

**If your pricing varies depending on what part of the country the buyer
is located, use this screen.**

![](media/image15.png){width="2.6979166666666665in"
height="1.2708333333333333in"}

![](media/image16.jpeg){width="6.498611111111111in"
height="4.618055555555555in"}

**COLORS/FABRICS**

**If your items have color or fabric options, enter the information
here.**

![](media/image17.png){width="5.999305555555556in"
height="1.3340277777777778in"}

![](media/image18.jpeg){width="6.499305555555556in"
height="4.741666666666666in"}

**SPECIAL CHARGES**

**If your items have additional charges enter that information here.**

![](media/image19.png){width="4.416666666666667in"
height="1.2708333333333333in"}

![](media/image20.jpeg){width="6.493055555555555in"
height="3.5319444444444446in"}

**Step 9:** Close the Special Charges screen.

## Product Information Screen

**(Do not enter services in this screen. See section 6.1 on how to enter
a text file.)**\
\
**Step 1:** Select "File" → "Open" →"Products" or select the "Products"
icon shown below.

![](media/image21.jpeg){width="4.638888888888889in"
height="1.3055555555555556in"}

**Step 2:** Select "Add".\
\
**Step 3:** Enter product information and select "Save"

![](media/image22.png){width="5.9944444444444445in"
height="4.261805555555555in"}

**Please see the index for field descriptions**

**Step 4:** The Price Information screen will appear. Enter your pricing
information and select "Save" when finished.

![](media/image23.jpeg){width="6.49375in" height="1.8930555555555555in"}

**Please see the index for field descriptions**

If you have quantity discounts/dollar volume discounts, select the
"Qty/Vole" button shown below and select "Edit".

![](media/image24.jpeg){width="4.49375in" height="1.2840277777777778in"}

### Quantity Volume Discount Breaks

![](media/image25.png){width="3.8694444444444445in"
height="1.8833333333333333in"}

### Dollar Volume Discount Breaks

![](media/image26.png){width="3.8680555555555554in"
height="1.882638888888889in"}

Save and close this screen. You will be redirected back to the "Price"
screen.

**Step 5:** Close the Price Information screen.

**Step 6:** The Environmental/Special Features screen will appear as
shown below. Complete this screen various product features apply.

![](media/image27.png){width="5.969444444444444in"
height="3.7597222222222224in"}

.

The Recycled Content field is only required when the Recycled Content
box checked.

![](media/image28.png){width="3.0722222222222224in"
height="2.2291666666666665in"}

**Step 7:** Repeat steps 2 - 7 to add additional items.

**Step 8:** Close Product Information screen.

## Accessories Information Screen

**Step 1:** Select "File" → "Open" → "Accessories" or select the
Accessories icon.

![](media/image29.png){width="3.49375in" height="1.1069444444444445in"}\
\
**Step 2:** Select "Add".\
\
**Step 3:** Enter Accessory information and select "Save".

![](media/image30.jpeg){width="6.499305555555556in"
height="4.379166666666666in"}

**The Accessory screen is identical to the Product screen, with the
exception of the "Attach Product" button**

**Step 4:** The Accessory Price Information screen will appear. Enter
price information and select "Save" when finished.

**Step 5:** Repeat steps 2 - 7 to add additional accessories.

**Step 6:** Close Accessory Information screen.

## Options Information Screen

**Step 1:** Select "File" → "Open" → "Options" or select the Options
icon.\
\
![](media/image21.jpeg){width="4.638888888888889in"
height="1.3055555555555556in"}

**Step 2:** Select "Add".\
\
**Step 3:** Enter option information and select "Save".

![](media/image31.jpeg){width="6.499305555555556in"
height="4.002083333333333in"}

**Step 4:** Close Options Information Screen.

4

# ADDING PRODUCT PHOTOS 

**Photos can be added using the Product Information Screen or the Photo
Screen.**

## Adding Photos Using Product Information Screen

**Step 1:** Photo requirements:

-   jpg format or gif format

-   no larger than 70 kb

-   file name can be no longer that 30 characters

-   file name should not contain special characters (i.e. space,
    symbols, etc.)

**Step 2:** Place the images into the C:\\Program Files\\SIPV7\\photo
folder.

**Step 3:** You can attach the photo in the Product Information screen
by selecting a product, selecting "Edit" on the top tool bar, and then
select the photo name drop down menu, and choosing appropriate photo
file.

**NOTE**: Image of photo will appear in Product Information Screen once
selected. Some images may seem distorted in the Product Information
Screen. This does not indicate how the file will view on *Advantage!*.
Images will show correctly on *Advantage!*.

![](media/image32.png){width="5.5125in" height="4.459027777777778in"}

**NOTE:** Follow steps 1, 2, and 3 from above to add photos in the
Accessory Screen.

## Adding Photos in the Photo Screen

**Step 1:** Follow steps 1 and 2 from above.

**Step 2:** Select File → Open → Photos. When Photo Screen appears,
select "Continue".

![](media/image33.png){width="4.30625in" height="3.192361111111111in"}

![](media/image34.png){width="4.30625in" height="3.192361111111111in"}

**Step 3:** Select the appropriate photo from the photo drop down menu.

**Step 4:** Double click in the last column of the table to
attach/detach a photo.

**Note:** You can add a single photo to multiple products.

# IMPORTING PRODUCTS

## Import Program Overview

The import program is used to enter a large number of products into the
SIP program at once. It is suggested that vendors with 100 or more
products, use the import program to enter their product data into SIP.

## Building Import Files

The import program accepts three file types, ASCII text (.txt), Excel
spreadsheets (.xls), and Database files (.dbf). Import Templates are
located in the C:\\Program Files\\SIPV7\\import\\template folder. Also
refer to the SIP Import Excel document located at the VSC website for
detailed information on the Excel Import Templates. For further
assistance in regards to ASCII text and dbf files, contact the VSC.

## Shortcut for Building Import Files

The most efficient way to build your import templates is to manually
fill out the first 4 screens in the SIP software (Contractor, Contracts,
SIN Max Order, Order Payment). Once those sections are complete, follow
the steps below:

**Step 1:** Select File → Open, → Products or select the "Product" icon
shown below. You cannot access the Product screen until the Contractor,
Contracts, SIN Max Order and Order Payment screens are complete.

![](media/image35.png){width="3.4159722222222224in"
height="1.1979166666666667in"}

**Step 2:** Follow steps 2 -- 7 of the Product Information section and
manually enter 10 products.

**Step 3:** Close the Product Information screen and select "File" →
"Export".

**Step 4:** Select the export file type.

![](media/image36.png){width="2.7083333333333335in" height="3.15625in"}

These files will be exported to the C:\\Program Files\\SIPV7\\export
folder. The first 10 products you entered in SIP will be in the correct
import format. Add the rest of your products to the IPROD and IPRICE
files, following the format from the 10 files you manually entered
(additional spreadsheets may be required if you have accessories,
options, volume discounts, zones or colors/fabrics). Once these files
have been completed they MUST be copied or saved to the C:\\Program
Files\\SIPV7\\Import folder for importing.

## Adding Photos Using Spreadsheets

**Step 1:** Follow steps 1 and 2 from the photo section

**Step 2:** Enter photo file name with the extension ( example:
photoname.jpg) next to its corresponding part number under column AJ in
the IPROD.xls spreadsheet.

## Importing Files into SIP

To open the SIP Import program, open SIP and select the "Import" icon.
You can also access this program by double-clicking the Import32.exe
file located in the C:\\Program Files\\SIPV7\\import folder.

**Step 1:** Select Import → Move data into import or select the "Move
data into import" icon shown below.

![](media/image37.png){width="3.1569444444444446in"
height="1.2916666666666667in"}

**Step 2:** Import Data screen will appear. Select your file type and
select Import.

![](media/image38.png){width="3.6166666666666667in"
height="1.6201388888888888in"}\
\
**Step 3:** Once this process is complete you may receive errors with
the file(s) if data was not entered correctly. If this occurs, correct
the error(s) indicated in the error report and begin import process from
Step 1.

**(\*NOTE: If you need assistance with this process, contact the Vendor
Support Center.)**\
\
**Step 4:** If there are no errors or when the errors are corrected,
select "Import" → "Import Data into SIP" or select the "Import Data into
SIP" icon shown in step 1.

**Step 5:** You will then be asked if you would like to ***append*** or
***replace*** the information currently in SIP. If you are replacing the
data in SIP with the information in IPRICE and IPROD, you will need the
following data in the import folder (IPROD, IPRICE, ICORPET, ICONTR,
IMOLS, and IREMITOR files). If you're appending your data ***do not***
include ICORPET.

**Step 6:** Close the SIP import function and open SIP by selecting Step
8 on the import menu.

Note: If you have the ICORPET sheet in the import folder, it will always
***replace*** the data even if you select append.

# ENTERING SERVICE CATALOG INFORMATION

## Creating Text Files

Vendors offering services to the Government use the text file feature to
explain their services, labor categories and pricing. This option may
also be used to explain custom products with approval from the
Contracting Officer.

**Step 1:** Create a document explaining the services your company
offers along with your prices. The formats that are acceptable are
Microsoft Word (.doc), Adobe Acrobat (.PDF), Excel Spreadsheet (.xls)
and Web Page (.htm/.html). **NOTE: File names must not include spaces or
special characters and must not exceed 70 characters.** This document
may include but not limited to the following:

a.  Company's Information (name, address, phone and fax numbers, web
    address, and point of contact information)

b.  Contract Information (contract number, schedule number and
    description, SIN numbers and description)

c.  Table of Contents

d.  Terms and Conditions

e.  Labor Categories

f.  Labor Categories Description

g.  Price List

**NOTE: Check with your Contracting Officer for text file page format.**

## Attaching Text Files to SIP

**Step 2:** Save or copy your text file into the C:\\Program
Files\\Sipv7 \\text file folder.

**Step 3:** Open SIP, select "File" → "Open" → "Text Files" or select
the text file icon.

**Step 4:** Choose "Select File" on the bottom left of the screen

**Step 5:** Select the drop down arrow and select your file.

**NOTE:** Any file in the text file folder will appear in the drop down
list. There is also an option to enter a URL linking to your company
website that explains your services. You cannot attach a text file and
enter a URL.

**Step 6:** Select "Save" at the top of the program.

**Step 7:** Close Text File screen.

# Uploading Catalog Information

## SIP Upload File Types

SIP allows you to upload your product or service information and prices
in six (6) file types. SIP catalog file types are:

1.  **A60 Original File**: Contains original information to be placed on
    *Advantage!*

2.  **C60 Change file**: Changes made to existing file on GSA
    *Advantage!*

3.  **R60 Replacement file**: Replacing entire catalog on *Advantage!*

4.  **W60 Text file**: Text File document

5.  **P60 Photo File**: Contains all photos you have attached in SIP

6.  **T60 Temporary Price File:** Any temporary prices start and stop
    dates.

## Firewall Settings

When uploading using SIP and you are on a network, please make sure you
have full administrative rights. FTP (port 22) should be open both
inbound and outbound to our web address
[http://vsc.gsa.gov](http://vsc.gsa.gov/).

## SIP Upload Instructions

After all the products, service and price information are entered into
SIP, and you are connected to the internet:

1.  Select "Communications" → "Create Catalog File". This will generate
    an A60 or C60 file depending if (1) this is the first time uploading
    with the current SIP program (A60) (2) you've made changes to the
    existing file in SIP (C60). To create an R60 (Replacement) file,
    select "Communications" → "Create a Replacement File" to replace the
    catalog on GSA *Advantage!* with the new catalog in SIP. If you have
    a text file attached, SIP will generate a W60 file.

2.  When the program has notified you that the files were created
    successfully, Select → "Communications**"** → "Send Catalog File(s)"
    → "**Send".** At the top of the dialog box, you will see "Select
    File Type". Make sure "**New Catalog"** is selected. Select the
    button labeled "Click Here to Start Upload" (upload times will vary
    depending on the size of the files).

## Uploading/Using VSC Website

If you are behind a firewall or having connectivity issues with SIP, you
can upload using our Vendor Response Retrieval and Catalog Upload System
website <http://vsc.gsa.gov/sipuser/get_files.cfm>. You can attach SIP
files and successfully upload information to GSA *Advantage!*. Before
uploading file(s) using the website, create the catalog files using the
SIP program (see step 1 in SIP Upload Instructions.)

## Website Upload Conditions

The Vendor Response Retrieval and Catalog Upload System website is only
used if you can not upload using SIP because of firewall issues, or
connectivity issues.

Website Upload Instructions

1.  Log into the Vendor Response Retrieval and Catalog Upload System
    website <http://vsc.gsa.gov/sipuser/get_files.cfm> using your GSA
    contract number and user name. Select the "Upload" radio button and
    select "Proceed".

2.  Click on the browse button(s). From the "Choose File" box and browse
    to C:\\Program Files\\Sipv7\\Upload folder.

3.  Attach file(s) from this location. When attaching a photo file (P60)
    use the browse button for photo. You can only upload A60, C60, R60,
    W60, P60 OR T60 extensions

4.  After all files are attached to the website, click on button labeled
    "Upload Files".

The website will notify you of a successful upload. After uploading
catalog files, please log out of website.

# DOWNLOADING AND PROCESSING RESPONSE FILES

After files are uploaded successfully through SIP, a message will appear
each time SIP is accessed. This message will read, \"**SIP is waiting on
a response file**\...\" until the electronic response file(s) are
downloaded and processed. Electronic response files are available via
SIP the day after you receive a fax or e-mail response from your GSA
contracting officer.

Download file types**: .A60= Original file, .C60= Change file, .R60=
Replacement file, .W60= Text file**

## Downloading and Processing Files

**Step 1:** Open SIP. A message will appear \"SIP is waiting on a
response file\...\"\
\
**Step 2:** Select \"I want to download\".\
\
**Step 3:** Select "Check for Response Files". **Must be connected to
the internet to download response file(s). If you experience
connectivity problems or if file is not available for download, send
e-mail to <vendor.support@gsa.gov> or call the Vendor Support Center at
877-495-4849.**\
\
**Step 4:** Once download is complete, click OK and close the dialog
box\
\
\
**Step 5:** Dialog box will appear stating, \"Response files are ready
to be processed.\" Select "Process Now." After processing is complete,
you can review the file.

**Step 6:** Close the screen to return to the main menu

## Connectivity Errors

If you've uploaded using the Vendor Response Retrieval and Catalog
Upload System, follow the steps below.

**Step 1:** Go online to the Vendor Response Retrieval and Catalog
Upload System (<http://vsc.gsa.gov/sipuser/get_files.cfm>).

**Step 2:** Enter your contract number and username, select "Download",
and click "Login".

![](media/image39.png){width="5.495138888888889in"
height="3.404166666666667in"}

Step 3: Follow **the** instructions in the screen shot below**.**

![](media/image40.jpeg){width="6.495833333333334in"
height="5.196527777777778in"}

# BACKING UP AND RESTORING SIP DATA

## Backing up SIP Data

To backup data, select "Tools" → "Backup".

![](media/image41.png){width="4.708333333333333in"
height="1.2708333333333333in"}

Select "Yes"

![](media/image42.png){width="5.635416666666667in"
height="1.2708333333333333in"}

Select "OK" to complete process.

The process created a file called backup.001. This file is located in
the C:\\Program Files\\SIPV7\\backup folder. ***[Keep a copy of this
file in another location (CD, floppy, network drive, etc.). If you lose
your SIP data and do not have a backup file, you must re-enter the
entire catalog in SIP. We do not keep copies of this
file.]{.underline}***

## Restoring SIP Data

Copy the backup.001 file into the C:\\Program Files\\SIPV7\\backup
folder. Open SIP and select "Tools" → "Restore".

![](media/image43.png){width="5.729166666666667in"
height="1.2708333333333333in"}

Select "Yes" to restore SIP data.

![](media/image44.png){width="2.7604166666666665in"
height="1.2708333333333333in"}

Select "OK"

# UPGRADING SIP VERSION

SIP version 6.x automatically searches for upgrades when the SIP program
is closed and will upgrade to version 7. For versions earlier than 6.x
or for those with firewalls preventing automatic upgrades please read
below:

## Upgrading SIP Version 6.x with Firewall

If SIP version 6.x does not upgrade automatically to version 7, follow
section 6.1 "Back up SIP Data". Download latest version of SIP from the
Vendor Support Center website
([http://vsc.gsa.gov](http://vsc.gsa.gov/)), and then follow section 6.2
"Restoring SIP Data". ***After you backup your data, save the backup.001
file on a different drive to prevent any data loss.***

## Upgrading From SIP Version 5.2

**Contact the VSC**

# VENDOR SUPPORT CENTER CONTACT INFORMATION

**For any problems regarding SIP or SIP documentation, send an email to
<vendor.support@vsc.gsa.gov> or call the Vendor Support Center at (703)
305-6235 or toll free at (877) 495-4849.**

***INDEX***

**Contractor Screen**

  -------------- ---------------- ---------------------------------------
  **FIELD NAME** **REQUIRED       **DESCRIPTION**
                 (Y/N)**          

  Contractor     **Y**            Company/Business Name
  Name                            

  DUNS           **Y**            Dun and Bradstreet Number

  Password       **Y**            Password provided at the time of SIP
  Provided by                     registration.
  GSA                             

  Division Name  **N**            Not required

  Address 1      **Y**            Company/Business Street Address

  Address 2      **N**            Additional address info. (ex. Suite
                                  900)

  Country        **Y**            Country

  City           **Y**            City

  State          **Y**            State

  Zip Code       **Y**            Zip Code

  Telephone      **Y**            Business Phone Number

  Fax            **Y**            Business Fax Number

  Website        **N**            Business website/URL
  -------------- ---------------- ---------------------------------------

**Contracts Screen**

+-------------+---------------+---------------------------------------+
| **FIELD     | **REQUIRED    | **DESCRIPTION**                       |
| NAME**      | (Y/N)**       |                                       |
+=============+===============+=======================================+
| Schedule    | **Y**         | GSA Schedule Category Number          |
| Number      |               |                                       |
+-------------+---------------+---------------------------------------+
| Contract    | **Y**         | Assigned GSA Contract Number          |
| Number      |               |                                       |
+-------------+---------------+---------------------------------------+
| M           | **N**         | Required only when there is a         |
| odification |               | modification to original contract.    |
| Number      |               | Modification Number will be given by  |
|             |               | assigned Procurement Contracting      |
|             |               | Officer (PCO).                        |
+-------------+---------------+---------------------------------------+
| Catalog     | **Y**         | Date GSA contract was awarded         |
| Effective   |               |                                       |
| Date        |               |                                       |
+-------------+---------------+---------------------------------------+
| Name        | **Y**         | Company Contract Administrator's name |
+-------------+---------------+---------------------------------------+
| Phone       | **Y**         | Company Contract Administrator's      |
|             |               | phone number                          |
+-------------+---------------+---------------------------------------+
| Fax         | **Y**         | Company Contract Administrator's fax  |
|             |               | number                                |
+-------------+---------------+---------------------------------------+
| E-Mail      | **Y**         | Company Contract Administrator's      |
|             |               | e-mail address                        |
+-------------+---------------+---------------------------------------+
| Prompt Pay  | **N**         | Additional discount if payment is     |
| Info        |               | made within a certain number of days  |
+-------------+---------------+---------------------------------------+
| Warranty    | **Y**         | Warranty information; if no warranty  |
|             |               | applies select "No Warrenty" from     |
|             |               | drop down menu                        |
+-------------+---------------+---------------------------------------+
| Production  | **Y**         | Country(ies) where products are       |
| Points      |               | manufactured. If you provide services |
|             |               | use "US"                              |
+-------------+---------------+---------------------------------------+
| Minimum     | **Y**         | Minimum order amount                  |
| Order       |               |                                       |
+-------------+---------------+---------------------------------------+
| Time of     | **Y**         | Time of Delivery of products:         |
| Delivery    |               |                                       |
|             |               | *Shipped* -- Products will be shipped |
|             |               | in indicated number of days after the |
|             |               | receipt of order                      |
|             |               |                                       |
|             |               | *Delivered* -- Products will be       |
|             |               | delivered in the indicated amount of  |
|             |               | days after the receipt of order       |
|             |               |                                       |
|             |               | Contracts providing services must     |
|             |               | select "from date of award to date of |
|             |               | completion"                           |
+-------------+---------------+---------------------------------------+
| FOB Points  | **Y**         | Freight information                   |
|             |               |                                       |
|             |               | D -- Destination                      |
|             |               |                                       |
|             |               | O -- Origin -- Freight prepaid by     |
|             |               | seller                                |
|             |               |                                       |
|             |               | G -- Origin -- Freight paid by buyer  |
|             |               | from GBL                              |
|             |               |                                       |
|             |               | W -- Worldwide (Continental US =      |
|             |               | destination, Outside Continental US = |
|             |               | origin)                               |
|             |               |                                       |
|             |               | N -- No delivery to this destination  |
+-------------+---------------+---------------------------------------+

**Products Screen**

  -----------------------------------------------------------------------
  **FIELD NAME** **REQUIRED       **DESCRIPTION**
                 (Y/N)**          
  -------------- ---------------- ---------------------------------------
  Contract       **Y**            Assigned GSA Contract Number
  Number                          

  SIN            **Y**            Special Item Number

  UPC/GTIN       **N**            

  Manufacturer   **Y**            Manufacturer of Product

  Manufacturer   **Y**            Manufacturer part/model number of
  part/model                      product
  number                          

  Contractor     **N**            Contractors that use their own part
  part number                     number scheme rather than the
                                  manufacturers part number

  National Stock **N**            National Stock Number
  Number (NSN)                    

  Product/Item   **Y**            Name of Product or Item
  Name                            

  Photo Name     **N**            Filename of photo associated with
                                  product - **Note:The Photo Name field
                                  can only be entered when all
                                  appropriate photos files have been
                                  placed in the C:\\Program
                                  files\\SIPV6\\Photo folder and follow
                                  all photo criteria. Please refer to the
                                  "Addding Product Photos" section.**

  Product        **Y**            Detailed description of products. (1000
  Description                     character limit)

  Product        **N**            URL for webpage with product
  Specific                        information or company website
  Website                         

  Product Length **N**            Length of product packaging -- **NOTE:
                                  This field is required when FOB point
                                  value is O, G, or W.**

  Product Width  **N**            Width of product packaging -- **NOTE:
                                  This field is required when FOB point
                                  value is O, G, or W.**

  Product Height **N**            Height of product packaging -- **NOTE:
                                  This field is required when FOB point
                                  value is O, G, or W.**

  Unit of        **N**            Unit of measurement used for product
  Measurement                     length, width, and height - **NOTE:
                                  This field is required when Product
                                  Length, Width, and Height are
                                  entered.**

  Shipping Unit  **N**            Shipping weight of packaged product -
  Weight                          **NOTE: This field is required when FOB
                                  point value is O, G, or W.**

  Shipping       **N**            Shipping Package Cube (cubic feet) -
  Package Cube                    **NOTE: This field is required when FOB
                                  point value is O, G, or W.**

  Unit of Issue  **Y**            Unit in which the product is
                                  issued/sold

  Quantity Per   **N**            This field is activated when the Unit
  Unit                            of Issue requires additional
                                  information.

  Order          **N**            Order increment information
  Increment                       

  Time of        **Y**            Number of days in which product will be
  Delivery                        delivered.

  Warranty       **Y**            Warranty information.

  Production     **Y**            Country in which product is
  Points                          manufactured.
  -----------------------------------------------------------------------

**Price Screen**

  -------------- ---------------- ---------------------------------------
  **FIELD NAME** **REQUIRED       **DESCRIPTION**
                 (Y/N)**          

  Unit of Issue  **Y**            Cannot be edited in pricing screen.
                                  Must be edited in product information
                                  screen.

  Quantity per   **N**            Cannot be edited in pricing screen.
  unit                            Must be edited in product information
                                  screen.

  Order          **N**            Cannot be edited in pricing screen.
  Increment or                    Must be edited in product information
  minimum                         screen.

  Standard Pack  **N**            Cannot be edited in pricing screen.
                                  Must be edited in product information
                                  screen.

  Catalog Price  **Y**            Catalog/Commercial Price

  GSA Price      **Y**            GSA Price

  Temp Price     **N**            Temporary discount price -- must be
                                  lower than GSA price

  Effective Date **N**            Temporary discount start date --
  From                            required if temp price is entered

  Effective Date **N**            Temporary discount end date -- required
  To                              if temp price is entered
  -------------- ---------------- ---------------------------------------

**QTY/Vole Screen**

  -------------- ---------------- ---------------------------------------
  **FIELD NAME** **REQUIRED       **DESCRIPTION**
                 (Y/N)**          

  Start Range    **Y**            Start range (quantity or dollar volume
                                  amount) of current break. Start range
                                  MUST be 1 greater than previous end
                                  range. First start range must be
                                  greater than 1. The number 1 is already
                                  assumed to be the original GSA price.

  End Range      **Y**            End range (quantity or dollar volume
                                  amount) of current break. The final end
                                  range value MUST be entered as
                                  999999999 to indicate infinite value OR
                                  up to maximum order.

  GSA Discount   **Y if **       GSA discount price **OR** discount
  price                           percentage is to be entered. Both
                                  fields cannot be used.

  Discount %     **Y if **       GSA discount price **OR** discount
                                  percentage is to be entered. Both
                                  fields cannot be used.

  Discount       **N**            Conditions to discounts that may apply
  Conditions                      to the product.
  -------------- ---------------- ---------------------------------------

**Accessories Screen**

  -------------------------------------------------------------------------
  **FIELD NAME**   **REQUIRED       **DESCRIPTION**
                   (Y/N)**          
  ---------------- ---------------- ---------------------------------------
  Contract Number  **Y**            Assigned GSA Contract Number

  SIN              **Y**            Special Item Number

  Manufacturer     **Y**            Manufacturer of Accessory

  Manufacturer     **Y**            Manufacturer part/model number of
  part/model                        accessory
  number                            

  Contractor part  **N**            Contractors that use their own part
  number                            number scheme rather than the
                                    manufacturers part number

  National Stock   **N**            National Stock Number
  Number (NSN)                      

  Accessory/Item   **Y**            Name of Accessory or Item
  Name                              

  Photo Name       **N**            Filename of photo associated with
                                    product - **Note:The Photo Name field
                                    can only be entered when all
                                    appropriate photos files have been
                                    placed in the C:\\Program
                                    files\\SIPV6\\Photo folder and follow
                                    all photo criteria. Please refer to the
                                    "Addding Product Photos" section.**

  Attach Product   **Y**            Attach a product to the accessory.
                                    **All accessories must be attached to
                                    at least one product.**

  Accessory        **Y**            Detailed description of accessory.
  Description                       (1000 character limit)

  Accessory        **N**            URL for webpage with accessory info or
  Specific Website                  company website

  Accessory Length **N**            Length of accessory packaging --
                                    **NOTE: This field is required when FOB
                                    point value is O, G, or W.**

  Accessory Width  **N**            Width of accessory packaging -- **NOTE:
                                    This field is required when FOB point
                                    value is O, G, or W.**

  Accessory Height **N**            Height of accessory packaging --
                                    **NOTE: This field is required when FOB
                                    point value is O, G, or W.**

  Unit of          **N**            Unit of measurement used for accessory
  Measurement                       length, width, and height - **NOTE:
                                    This field is required when Accessory
                                    Length, Width, and Height are
                                    entered.**

  Shipping Unit    **N**            Shipping weight of packaged accessory -
  Weight                            **NOTE: This field is required when FOB
                                    point value is O, G, or W.**

  Shipping Package **N**            Shipping Package Cube (cubic feet) -
  Cube                              **NOTE: This field is required when FOB
                                    point value is O, G, or W.**

  Unit of Issue    **Y**            Unit in which the accessory is
                                    issued/sold

  Quantity Per     **N**            Required when Unit of Issue is BOX,
  Unit                              CASE, PACK, etc. Used to provide
                                    quantity within the BOX, CASE, PACK,
                                    etc.

  Order Increment  **N**            Order increment information

  Time of Delivery **Y**            Number of days in which accessory will
                                    be delivered.

  Warranty         **Y**            Warranty information

  Production       **Y**            Country in which accessory is
  Points                            manufactured
  -------------------------------------------------------------------------

**Options Screen**

  -----------------------------------------------------------------------
  **FIELD NAME**   **REQUIRED       **DESCRIPTION**
                   (Y/N)**          
  ---------------- ---------------- -------------------------------------
  Group Name       **Y**            Accessory group name

  Manufacturer     **Y**            Manufacturer's accessory part number
  Part \#                           

  Option Type      **Y**            How option will relate to base
                                    product. Values are I=included,
                                    S=substituted, A=added, and O=none
                                    can be selected for group. **NOTE:
                                    Option type "S" can only be used if
                                    first option in group has an option
                                    type"I".**

  Description      **Y**            Accessory description

  Manufacturer     **Y**            Manufacturer of accessory

  Price or Credit  **Y**            Price or credit of accessory

  Quantity         **Y**            Number of accessory(s)

  Unit             **Y**            Unit of measurement of accessory
  -----------------------------------------------------------------------