The bid date and time needs to be strictly enforced. If the contractor is a second or later, then their bid needs to be returned unopened. An official clock should be present and visible for the receipt of bids.
Also, the bid date and times need to follow an unwritten guideline. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday between 2:00 and 4:00pm are appropriate date and times for the bid. Holidays, the day before/after a holiday and the week between Christmas and New Years should be avoided. Selecting a date and time outside of the parameters above can lower the number of responsive bidders and increase the cost of the project.
