FAR 8.801—Definitions.
Plain-English Summary
FAR 8.801 provides the definitions that control how the printing and related supplies rules in Subpart 8.8 are applied. It defines two key terms: "Government printing," meaning printing, binding, and blankbook work performed for the use of an executive department, independent agency, or establishment of the Government; and "related supplies," meaning supplies used and equipment usable in printing and binding operations. These definitions matter because they determine what activities and items fall within the special federal printing framework, which can affect sourcing, approval, and compliance requirements. In practice, contracting officers and program offices must use these definitions to decide whether a requirement is covered by the printing rules, while contractors need them to understand when a requirement involves regulated printing work or associated materials and equipment. The section is short, but it is foundational because it sets the scope for the rest of the subpart.
Key Rules
Government printing scope
"Government printing" includes printing, binding, and blankbook work when performed for the use of an executive department, independent agency, or establishment of the Government. The definition is functional and use-based, so the key question is whether the work is for government use within the covered entities.
Related supplies scope
"Related supplies" covers both supplies used in printing and equipment that can be used in printing and binding operations. This broad definition captures items tied to the printing process, not just finished printed products.
Definitions control subpart coverage
These terms are defined specifically for use in this subpart, so they determine whether a requirement falls under the printing-related rules in FAR Subpart 8.8. Proper classification is essential before applying any additional restrictions or procedures.
Responsibilities
Contracting Officer
Determine whether a requirement involves "Government printing" or "related supplies" before applying the subpart’s procedures and restrictions. Use these definitions to classify the acquisition correctly and avoid misrouting a printing requirement.
Program/Requirement Office
Describe the need accurately so the contracting officer can tell whether the work is printing, binding, blankbook work, or related supplies/equipment. Provide enough detail about intended use and the items involved to support proper classification.
Contractor
Understand whether the solicitation or order is for covered printing work or related supplies/equipment and price, propose, and perform accordingly. Ensure deliverables and materials match the defined scope of the requirement.
Agency
Apply these definitions consistently across internal procurement and printing-related processes. Ensure personnel involved in ordering or approving printing-related work know what falls within the subpart.
Practical Implications
The main day-to-day issue is scope: a small wording difference can determine whether a requirement is treated as government printing or as ordinary supplies/services.
Contracting officers should verify whether the work is for a covered government entity and whether the item is truly printing, binding, blankbook work, or related equipment/supplies.
A common pitfall is overlooking equipment or consumables that support printing and binding operations, which may still fall within "related supplies."
Another pitfall is assuming all printed products are automatically covered; the definition focuses on the type of work and its use for the government.
Because this section is definitional, it does not itself impose a process step, but it is critical for deciding which later rules in Subpart 8.8 apply.
Official Regulatory Text
As used in this subpart- Government printing means printing, binding, and blankbook work for the use of an executive department, independent agency, or establishment of the Government. Related supplies means supplies that are used and equipment that is usable in printing and binding operations.