MANUAL OF BUSINESS PROCEDURES - SECTION 220
Last Updated: June 2003

Stores Stock
ORDERING
World Wide Web
Facsimile (Fax)
Telephone
Counter Sales
Campus Mail
PERSONAL USE SALES
QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, RETURNS, SHORTAGE, DAMAGE
Questions about an order
Suggestions
Damage/Shortage/Overage
Back orders
Returns
Restocking fees
SPECIAL STOCK CONSIDERATIONS
Ethyl Alcohol
Compressed Gases and Accessories
Dimethyl Sulfoxide
Refrigerants (Freon)
Non-Stock Orders (Open Orders)
PLACING ORDERS
HOW TO COMPLETE THE "NON-STOCK ORDER FORM"
WHAT TO DO WITH THE PACKING SLIP
PAYMENT
POLICIES, RESTRICTIONS, AND SPECIALTY ITEMS
DAMAGE AND RETURNS
Stores Receiving
DAMAGE AND SHORTAGE
Shipping
DETERMINING WHICH FORMS TO USE
TRANSPORTATION SERVICE REQUEST CARD
MATERIAL RETURN/SHIPPING PERMIT FORM
SHIPMENT OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
Distribution Services
PICKUP AND DELIVERY
CONTRACTED SERVICES
Campus Mail
RECOMMENDED PROCEDURES FOR CAMPUS MAIL
ADDRESSING CAMPUS MAIL
CHANGE OF ADDRESS
Mail Processing
Lease/Purchase Program
Equipment Rental Program
Services and Rates
ON CAMPUS
OFF CAMPUS
BUSINESS HOURS

UNIVERSITY STORES

University Stores, a department of University Services, is located in the Robert D. Angell Building. The campus address is 101 Angell Building. Stores is responsible for a variety of functions including: fulfilling the supply needs of Michigan State University through either the "Stores Stock" or "Non-Stock Order" functions; Receiving; Shipping; Distribution; Campus Mail; Mail Processing; Lease/Purchase and Equipment Rental. The department telephone number is 355-1700.

STORES STOCK
The Stores Stockroom carries over 5,000 items and is responsible for meeting the supply needs of colleges, departments and programs of Michigan State University. A consolidation of purchases results in lower costs per item for all departments. University Stores stocks and dispenses items that are commonly used, have multiple users, may be difficult to obtain, or items required to be immediately available.  The University Stores catalog is available on the World Wide Web (WWW). Searches are possible by item number, keyword search, or manufacturers number.

Two-Hour Pickup: Stores Stockroom offers a two-hour pickup service. Orders can be placed by fax or telephone. Completed pickup orders will be at the customer service counter, located through the marked entrance at the front of the Angell Building. The following procedures apply to pickup orders:

  • Two business hours are needed to process an order.
  • Orders that are placed as "pickup" must be picked up. If not picked up by the close of the next business day, the order is delivered and a delivery fee is charged.
  • The customer will receive a copy of the order for verification.

ORDERING
Stocked items may be ordered via the World Wide Web, facsimile, telephone, campus mail, or in person at the Stores
counter. A description of each method follows:

         World Wide Web
The preferred method of ordering is with the University Stores/Purchasing web-requisitioning system. It is an online ordering system connecting Purchasing, University Stores, Inventory, Accounts Payable and department users. Registered users can access the system for information about product types, quantities available, and pricing. Completion of a training session is recommended, but not required. Please contact University Stores at 355-1700 or Purchasing at 355-0357 for information about training sessions.

Facsimile (Fax)
Placing orders by fax is fast and convenient. University Stores fax number is 355-8308. Use the fax order form "Request for Supplies from Stores" (stock number
14027010). Complete the following information:

  • Common unit code
  • Building and room number (the delivery address)
  • Account number (may specify multiple accounts)
  • Full name and telephone number of the authorized person placing the order
  • Date the requisition is submitted by the department
  • The stock number, quantity ordered, unit of issue, and a brief description of the item
  • Indicate if the order is for pick up or delivery

Telephone
University Stores provides a telephone ordering service between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. To use this service, call 355-1703 and have the following information ready:

  • Common unit code
  • Building and room number (the delivery address)
  • Account number (may specify multiple accounts)
  • Full name and telephone number of the authorized person placing the order
  • The stock number, quantity needed, unit of issue and a brief description

Counter Sales
University Stores supplies are available for purchase in person at the customer service counter. Catalogs and staff are available to assist customers. The counter is open from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. It is not open on university holidays.

Campus Mail
Supplies can be ordered via Campus Mail using the "Request for Supplies from Stores" form (stock number
14027010). Complete the following information:

  • Common unit code
  • Building and room number (the delivery address)
  • Account number (may specify multiple accounts)
  • Full name and telephone number of the authorized person placing the order
  • The stock number, quantity needed, unit of issue and a brief description

PERSONAL USE SALES
University Stores offers items to MSU faculty, staff and students for personal use. Orders for personal use may be faxed for pickup or ordered at the customer service counter.
  Personal Use Form  The policies for personal sales include:

  • Valid MSU identification required at the time of purchase
  • Cylinder gases are prohibited
  • Chemical and medical items are restricted
  • No refunds. Merchandise can be exchanged if damaged or defective. A receipt is required.
  • Personal use items cannot be delivered
  • No back orders or rain checks
  • Faxed orders will be held one business day for pick up before being returned to stock
  • Personal checks must have presenters drivers license number on them

QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, RETURNS, SHORTAGE, DAMAGE
Questions about an order.
When contacting University Stores about an order, please have the requisition number available. It is found in the upper right corner of the order form.

Suggestions. Customer satisfaction is very important to University Stores. Suggestions for new products may be sent on a "New Stock Consideration Request," or call 355-1700 with suggestions, comments, and recommendations for new products. Suggestions may also be mailed to University Stores, 101 Angell Building.

Damage/Shortage/Overage. Check the supplies received against the copy of the delivery document which accompanies each order. Discrepancies should be reported immediately by calling 355-1700. Shortages must be reported to University Stores within two working days otherwise, no adjustment can be made.

Back orders. If an item is temporarily out of stock, Stores automatically creates a back order. Reordering by the department is not necessary. Back orders are filled first upon receipt of stock. Customers wishing to cancel back ordered items should contact Stores at 355-1700 with the requisition number and item number to be canceled.

Returns. Merchandise originally ordered and received from University Stores can be returned provided it can be resold and is in the original factory carton. No obsolete or discontinued merchandise will be accepted for return. Personal Use orders cannot be returned.

Return Options:

  • Call University Stores at 355-1700 and have the following information ready: requisition number, quantities and descriptions of items to be returned, and reason for return.
  • Fax completed Return/Exchange Form to University Stores, 355-8308. University Stores will arrange for pickup.
  • Attach completed Return/Exchange Form to merchandise and place in Campus Mail for pickup.
  • Bring the item(s) to the Service Counter during business hours with the required information for credit.

Postage stamps may be returned only if purchased by the roll and the package is unopened.

Restocking fees. Merchandise that is returned due to Stores error or manufacturers defect is credited 100% if returned in its original condition. Stock merchandise returned for any reason other than error or manufacturers defect is credited subject to the following restocking charges:

Elapsed time after receipt Restocking charge
Same day - 1 week
1 week - 1 month
1 - 3 months
3 - 6 months
Beyond 6 months
No charge
15%
20%
50%
No returns

SPECIAL STOCK CONSIDERATIONS
The following policies are for regulated chemicals and gas purchases:

Ethyl Alcohol
Federal regulations on tax-free alcohol give explicit directions on record maintenance and restrictions on the use of ethyl alcohol. Departments may not sell, issue, or give away alcohol issued to them for teaching and research purposes. Alcohol must be used as stated in the Internal Revenue Service Regulations (Distribution and Use of Tax Free Alcohol, Part 22 of Title 27, Code of Federal Regulations).

Ethyl Alcohol is purchased by University Stores in sealed pint and one gallon containers, and in bulk quantities which are issued in one gallon increments. Departments ordering bulk alcohol must have approved safety cans that are in good condition and with a label indicating the contents. Stores will pick up, fill, and return the containers.

Compressed Gases and Accessories
Cylinder gases are delivered directly by the vendor to the department. A cylinder rental charge is assessed and continues to accrue until the cylinder is returned. Cylinder rental appears as a separate charge on the Stores monthly billing. It is recommended that grant accounts not be used. Return all empty cylinders as quickly as possible to eliminate excessive cylinder rental charges.

  • To return empty cylinders, the Cylinder Return Form must be completed and returned to University Stores.  The completed form should contain the following:
     
  • Building and room number where the cylinders are located
  • Cylinder tag or label number
  • Rental account number
  • Contact persons name and telephone number
  • Retain a copy of the signed cylinder pickup for your departments records. This is valuable in the event of a discrepancy.
  • Report cylinders with suspected leaks immediately to the supplier, BOC Gases, at 321-8035.


Dimethyl Sulfoxide
Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is a controlled substance, not intended for use in the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease in man or other animals. A signed statement is required to order this item. Please include a copy of the statement, signed by an authorized departmental representative, with the "Request for Supplies from Stores" form.  To obtain a copy of the statement call 355-1700.

Refrigerants (Freon)
The Federal Clean Air Act legislation restricts the sale of refrigerants to certified technicians only. A "Refrigerant Certification" form must be on file with Stores, or included with the order before a purchase is authorized.  To obtain a copy of the "Refrigerant Certification" form call 355-1700.

NON-STOCK ORDERS (Open Orders)
Open Orders are purchasing agreements negotiated by the Purchasing Department. Vendors are selected to provide supplies and services at established terms of purchase. The system is for use by all university departments to obtain small quantity, low value items. The objectives are to get material quickly, keep the ordering process simple, and minimize the associated cost.

A number of local vendors have special requirements or restrictions. A call to Non-Stock Orders (353-5392) may save time if dealing with a vendor for the first time. A complete listing of policies and vendors is available on the Non-Stock Order home page or upon request. Most companies with Open Orders provide catalogs directly to departments. Non-Stock Orders also maintains a catalog library for viewing.

PLACING ORDERS
When purchasing from a local vendor, the MSU department (customer) must obtain a release number. Some vendors require a copy of the release at the point of sale. The release number is an approval provided by Stores for processing payment. A
Vendor Listing of suppliers and their requirements is available on the Stores Open Order web site or from Stores. There are several different scenarios for locating goods and obtaining release approval, which are explained in detail below:

  1. The customer must first identify the item. If identified by catalog or telephone, the customer may call Stores to obtain the release number. The customer may also send a "Non-Stock Order Form" (stock number 14027040) to Stores via fax, campus mail, or hand delivery.
  2. Once the release information is obtained, the customer may place the order if the vendor is local. Stores will place the order to out-of-town suppliers. The customer may pick up items at the local vendors site after obtaining the release number, the vendor may deliver the order directly to the department, or the items may be shipped to Stores where they will be processed and delivered.
  3. The customer may choose to visit various local vendors to find the desired item. To save time once the item is found, the customer may call Stores from the vendors site to obtain a release number. After receiving the number, the customer can complete the purchase transaction and leave with the items. If the vendor requires a hard copy of the release at the time of purchase, Stores will fax a copy to the vendor on request.
  4. In all cases, Stores requires standard information to provide a release number. This includes: a valid department account number, the price of the item(s), the quantity, a description of the item, the name of person ordering, and his or her telephone number, the campus location and the vendors name. As noted in Item one, the customer has two options. The first is to call Stores at 353-5392 with this information to obtain the release number. The second option is to complete the "Non-Stock Order Form" (stock number 14027040) and fax, hand deliver, or mail it to Stores. Note: If the order is called in, do not send a form. This will result in a duplicate order.

HOW TO COMPLETE THE "NON-STOCK ORDER FORM": This form serves as an order form and/or receiving form and provides authorization to invoice MSU. This is the only form the customer completes. The requisitioner (MSU customer) completes the department and delivery information and supplies the following information: the name of the company that supplies the items required, order quantity, part or catalog number, description of items, and price. If ordering from a company catalog, indicate the page number and issue of the catalog.

WHAT TO DO WITH THE PACKING SLIP:
Local Vendors
ONLY:
Please return packing slips to University Stores, 101 Angell Building, Attn: Open Orders.  Make sure the release number is on the packing slip.  When auditing invoices, the Open Order staff refers to the packing slip for receipt verification.

Out-of-Town Vendors:  We have the receipt of your item on record, it is not necessary to forward your packing slip.

PAYMENT
Payment of vendor invoices is handled by the Non-Stock Orders section. Any invoices received by departments for open order releases must be forwarded to Non-Stock Orders, 101 Angell Building. The Non-Stock Orders section charges department accounts through the Stores billing system. Statements are prepared monthly and are distributed through Campus Mail.

Stores cannot bill in advance. The charge is processed when the invoice is received and proof of delivery is obtained as evidenced by a packing slip or a Stores delivery slip.

POLICIES, RESTRICTIONS, AND SPECIALTY ITEMS

  • No single release can exceed $2,500, with some exceptions.
  • No rentals.
  • No phone cards.
  • No alcohol.
  • No tobacco products.
  • Digilink requires a release number on a "Stores Non-Stock Order Form" before merchandise may be purchased.
  • Safety Services must approve fire extinguisher purchases.
  • All correspondence must reference the release number.
  • Deliveries are not to be made to campus until a release number is issued by Open Orders.
  • Orders to out-of-town vendors must be sent to Open Orders for placement.
  • Forward all local packing slips to Open Orders with the release number clearly recorded.
  • Dry Ice is handled as a standing order. It is available in a 50 lb. block, a sliced block, or 50 lb. bag of pellets. To use the open order, a Non-Stock Order Form must be prepared. Required information is:

    1. Account number.
    2. Delivery location.
    3. Day(s) of the week for delivery (Monday, Friday or both).
    4. Quantity and type (block, sliced block, or pellet).

    Before deliveries start, the department must have a dry ice storage container available.

    To stop deliveries: Deliveries continue as requested until Non-Stock Orders receives a written cancellation request. Please send memo at least three (3) business days before the last required delivery date. The signed and dated memo should include the last required delivery date.

DAMAGE AND RETURNS
Report damaged shipments or shortages immediately by calling 355-1700. For vendors whose names begin with A - K, request Extension 190. For vendor names beginning with L - Z, request Extension 192. For damaged goods, retain the original shipping container until the claim is resolved.

For returns or exchanges, contact Non-Stock Orders on how to proceed. A Material Return and/or Shipping Permit form (stock number 14025620), must be completed and sent to the Non-Stock Orders office before arrangement can be made for pickup.

Departments can handle the return of local shipments with a value of less than $50. Forward credit memos or return slips to Stores Non-Stock Orders. Please include the release number from the original transaction to ensure credit is applied to the departments account.  Boise Cascade has a separate return policy. Information can be found at  Boise Returns.

STORES RECEIVING
Stores Receiving is the central receiving location for incoming shipments to campus departments. Receiving accepts authorized shipments for any department on campus. Receiving is also responsible for maintaining receiving and delivery records for the University.

The Receiving office will not accept shipments or packages for student dormitory rooms, Kellogg Center guest rooms, or for organizations not affiliated with university academic or business operations. Stores is responsible for receiving and redelivery of shipments relating to university business only. Stores is not responsible for non-business related shipments to individuals employed by the University.

Airfreight shipments are delivered by the next scheduled truck to the delivery location. If the next truck isnt departing until the following workday, a courtesy call is made to notify the addressee of receipt of material.

A special delivery service is available on an actual cost basis (minimum of one hour) when:

  • Planned delivery service is not acceptable to the addressee.
  • A delivery person and vehicle are available.

For all deliveries: Upon receipt of the package(s), the department signs the delivery receipt and returns the yellow copy to the delivery person as proof of delivery. The department retains the pink copy. Signed delivery slips must be returned to the Stores driver at the time the merchandise is delivered. Signatures attest to the number of cartons or pieces received, not the contents.

DAMAGE AND SHORTAGE
Material received in a damaged condition must be reported immediately to the Damage and Claims section of Stores at 355-1700, Extension 212. Time is very important. In order for a claim to be considered, concealed damage must be reported to the freight carrier within 15 days of the date received by MSU. Please contact Stores immediately for instructions. In all cases, the package and contents including inner packaging, must be preserved as received. Do not remove anything from the package until it has been inspected or a determination made for return or replacement. Value of the damaged item must exceed $50 before a formal claim can be filed.

Disposition of damaged items is processed on a Material Return and/or Shipping Permit form (stock number 14025620). The form must be completed and sent to University Stores. Vendors are contacted by University Stores to verify such information as:

  • Whether the claim is to be handled by MSU or by the supplier.
  • The shipping address, if returned to the vendor.
  • The type of transportation to be used, and who is responsible for the shipping expenses.
  • Whether the shipment requires additional insurance and at whose expense.
  • The exact dollar amount of the claim.

Once a claim is initiated, Stores contacts the department regarding responsibility for payment of invoices or handling of credits.

Any overage or shortage arriving on a P.O. or P.O.D. should be reported to the Receiving office at 355-1700, Extension 209, for advice (e.g. pick up, redelivery, or Material Return).


SHIPPING
Shipping/Traffic is the central shipping office for all material being shipped from the University. This area has the responsibility to ensure materials being shipped off campus are properly classified and adhere to all federal rules and regulations. The Stores Shipping/Traffic team is also responsible for the payment of incoming collect and outgoing prepaid freight charges. Freight and air bills are processed, charges are verified and billed to department accounts through the Stores billing system. Individual departments shipping or receiving merchandise directly should send all freight bills to Stores for processing.

Stores retains the right to make the final determination as to the best method and terms of shipment. Additional information may be obtained by calling Stores Shipping at 355-1700, Extension 212.

Purchasing and University Stores have negotiated campus-wide transportation contracts to substantially reduce overall shipping costs to the University. Departments are strongly encouraged to use these contracts.

DETERMINING WHICH FORMS TO USE

1. When a Purchase Order or Purchase Order Draft is involved:
2. When a Purchase Order or Purchase Order Draft is not involved, value is not a consideration and either method is acceptable.
 
3. When repairs are involved:

TRANSPORTATION SERVICE REQUEST CARD
The Transportation Service Request Card (stock number 14028200) is an expedient means of shipping. There is no receipt when picked up from the department and it is assumed the department has made all arrangements with the recipient of the goods. The Transportation Service Request Card may be used for the shipment of any material not involving a Purchase Order or Purchase Order Draft. Shipments involving a Purchase Order or Purchase Order Draft valued under $500 with no credit expected can also use the Transportation Service Request Card.  All other shipments must use the Material Return Form.

Expedited shipping through the various airfreight companies, with guaranteed times of arrival, may also use this method. It is the department's responsibility to obtain a correct shipping address and make all arrangements with the recipient, including return authorization if required. Shipments containing hazardous material must include a Material Safety Data Sheet and a full description.

MATERIAL RETURN/SHIPPING PERMIT FORM
Shipments involving a Purchase Order or Purchase Order Draft valued over $500 or those involving a credit require a Material Return/Shipping Permit (stock number
14025620).  Please see the Purchasing MBP for more information.

SHIPMENT OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
It is strongly recommended that all hazardous material be shipped through the Stores Shipping Department. Failure to do so puts the University and the individual at risk for substantial federal fines.
Federal regulations require shipments to include a 24-hour emergency response telephone number and also require all persons offering hazardous materials for shipment to be certified. Documentation must include a copy of the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). Attach the sheet to the MR form before sending it to Stores. Copies of MSDS forms are available through the Office of Radiation, Chemical and Biological Safety (355-0153). Please refer questions regarding the shipment of hazardous materials to the Stores Shipping Department (355-1700, Extension 212).


DISTRIBUTION SERVICES
University Stores operates a delivery system for the transfer of materials and mail.

PICK UP AND DELIVERY

  • The building and room number specified on the order form or pickup notice is considered the final delivery or pickup location. To change a location and avoid additional charges, call Receiving at 355-1700, Extension 209 prior to the delivery or pickup. If the room listed is a locked storage room, indicate on the form where a key can be obtained. If a signature on the delivery slip is to be obtained at a location other than the delivery location, this must also be indicated.
  • Signed delivery slips must be returned to the Stores driver at the time the merchandise is delivered. Signatures attest to the number of cartons or pieces received, not the contents.
  • A special handling fee will be assessed for opening crates, moving, setup, special equipment, extra personnel, or excessive time. If not arranged in advance, delivery to a point other than specified on the P.O., P.O.D., Non-Stock release, or Stores requisition will incur additional fees, as will unscheduled pickups.
  • Stores offers a pick up and delivery service. To request this service, call 355-1700 or use the Pickup Request form. No fee is charged up to a maximum of eight stackable boxes (approximately 17"x12"x15" each) or one hamper of mail. There is a special handling fee for larger orders. See: PICK UP AND DELIVERY SERVICES AND RATES

CONTRACTED SERVICES
Please call Stores at 355-1700, Extension 214 to schedule this service or to obtain an estimate for a job.

  • Material handling or distribution services can be arranged on a contract basis for a service fee. All vehicles are operated by Stores personnel with the cost of the driver included. Charges for extra personnel are based on regular and/or overtime rates.
  • On-campus service includes furniture delivery, equipment transfers, etc., either during the regular workday or after hours.
  • Off-campus service includes pick up and delivery service for local trips to the Lansing and East Lansing area, and long distance trips within the Lower Peninsula.
  • Destinations outside the Lower Peninsula may be scheduled if sufficient lead time is provided.
  • Service by either delivery van or freight truck is available.


CAMPUS MAIL
By action of the MSU Board of Trustees and United States Postal Service Private Express Statutes, campus mail service is limited to the distribution on campus of official university communications and the collection of mail for off-campus mailing. Examples of communications handled are:

  • Notices of faculty meetings or other university department sponsored affairs or programs.
  • Notices of meetings of learned and professional societies.
  • Communications from one department of the University to another.
  • Memorandums from one individual to another when pertaining to current university business.

Section 310.3 (b) of the Private Express Statutes (Vol. 39, Federal Register pp. 33211-13) does not permit campus mail service to receive or carry letters that do not relate to the current business of the University. Communications that cannot be distributed are:

  • Personal letters of the University's offices and employees.
  • Letters exchanged between non-university agencies.
  • Letters exchanged between students.
  • Requests for contributions (except Community Charitable Campaign).
    • Sales or collections by campus organizations or individuals.
    • Church announcements, club announcements, and notices of political or organizational meetings.
    • Anonymous mailings.
    • Mailings for commercial, personal or private gain or those containing commercial advertising for organizations or individuals not affiliated with the University.

Campus Mail reusable interdepartmental envelopes are available for purchase from Stores stock in the following sizes:

  • 10 1/4" x 4 1/2" (14018060)
  • 9" x 12"             (14018200)
  • 10" x 13"           (14018250)

Used envelopes may be obtained by filling out our Interdepartmental Envelope Request form .  Due
to limited supplies, envelopes are available on a first come, first served basis only.

Payroll envelopes are used only for delivery from the Payroll Department to the department head. To forward payroll time reports or checks, remove them from the payroll envelope and forward in a regular mail envelope. Do not reuse Payroll envelopes for interdepartmental mail. This procedure is designed to protect employee pay sheets, employee checks, and accountability by Payroll and Campus Mail Service. The empty envelope can be returned to the Payroll Office for reuse.

RECOMMENDED PROCEDURES FOR CAMPUS MAIL
The following practices assist Campus Mail in expediting the mail and maintaining a smooth flow for the total University:

  • For large campus mailings (greater than 200 pieces), contact Campus Mail at 355-1700, Extension 218 a few days prior to the mailing date.
  • The mailing must be properly addressed, sorted by building, and bundled.
  • Large mailings are merged into the mail flow, as time is available. As a result, mailings may be delivered over a period of several days.
  • Single or multiple page mailings not in an envelope should be folded and sealed.

ADDRESSING CAMPUS MAIL
It is essential to include the building name. Mail is sorted and delivered according to building. The room number and building name should be the last line of the address. An example of the proper address for campus mail is as follows:

Sally Doe
Department of English
201 Morrill Hall

CHANGE OF ADDRESS
Postal Manual 153.6 (mail addressed to schools, institutions, etc.) states that mail addressed to individuals at schools and similar places will be delivered to the school. If the addressee is no longer at that address, it is the responsibility of individuals at that address to provide forwarding information.

Departments are responsible for forwarding mail that is addressed to them. Campus Mail Service does not maintain a file of forwarding addresses. If the forwarding address is unknown, the department should return U.S. Mail to the Postal Service, endorsed "not at" or "address unknown." If a department wishes to refuse any mail, indicate on each piece the reason for refusal and how it should be handled.

LEASE/PURCHASE PROGRAM
The Lease/Purchase Program
is offered by Stores to provide a means of acquiring needed items for departments temporarily short of funds. Nearly every kind of product can be obtained through the Stores Lease/Purchase Program. The program offers financing up to five years in 12-month increments. Prior approval must be obtained from Contract and Grant Administration for any lease involving a grant account.

To initiate a lease, departments must complete a Purchasing Requisition. In the body of the requisition, the statement "to be leased through Stores over ____ years" must be included. The monthly lease charge begins when the material is received and Stores pays the invoice. For further information and lease payment quotes, call University Stores at 355-1700, Extension 195.

Stores retains ownership until all lease obligations have been met. The lease may be paid in full any time during the contract period by paying the balance (principal plus current month's interest). Additional funds may be applied to the principal any time during the lease. Once the balance is paid, ownership is transferred to the leasing department. An Equipment Transfer Notice is prepared by Stores if the value is over $5,000.

Departments are responsible for the maintenance contract on leased equipment. Contact Purchasing for details at 355-0357, Extension 100.
 

EQUIPMENT RENTAL PROGRAM
University Stores provides a variety of office equipment and other items for monthly rental. Some of the items available for rent are pagers, typewriters, fax machines, answering machines, copiers, and dictation/transcribers. For current rates or additional information on rental procedures, call 355-1700, Extension 195.

All rental items are under a maintenance contract for immediate repair in the field. All equipment comes with supplies to start the rental period.  Departments are responsible for expenses incurred due to misuse, theft, or destruction of the equipment. A monthly rental charge is assessed and will appear on the Stores monthly statement. The online Rental Request form is a convenient method to request rental items.  New rental items: Stores is always looking for new ideas to expand its rental capabilities and would welcome any suggestions. Call 355-1700, Extension 195 to make recommendations.

PICK UP AND DELIVERY SERVICES AND RATES
ON CAMPUS
  
MAIL  One (1) hamper or less: no charge
More than one hamper: $38/hour/person; $38 minimum charge
CARTONS Eight (8) paper size 17" x 12" x 15", stackable: no charge
More than eight cartons: $38/hour/person; $38 minimum charge
SPECIAL HANDLING  Uncrate, move, setup, or anything requiring special equipment, extra personnel, excessive time, etc.  $38/hour/person; $38 minimum charge
SPECIAL DELIVERY  Delivery or pick up other than normally scheduled. $38/hour/person; $38 minimum charge
DELIVERY POINT  Other than specified on order.  $38/hour/person; $38 minimum charge
  
OFF CAMPUS

All vehicles must be operated by University Stores personnel. The cost of the driver is included. Extra staff is available at an additional charge.

LOCAL   Pick up or delivery to/from vendor (Lansing and East Lansing area)
VAN/PICKUP Downtown Lansing - $10/stop
FREIGHT TRUCK  $38/hour; $38 minimum charge
 
LONG DISTANCE
VAN/PICKUP $38/hour/person plus gas, meals and lodging;
$38 minimum charge
FREIGHT TRUCK $38/hour/person plus gas, meals and lodging;
$38 minimum charge
  
UNIVERSITY STORES
BUSINESS HOURS 
 
Counter 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Phone-In/Open Orders
(353-5392 or 355-1700, Extension 220)            
8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Phone-In/Pick up Orders*
(355-1703 or 5-1700, Extension 187)
8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
*Two business hours processing time is required. Orders called in after 3 p.m. will be ready for pickup the following business day.
 
Receiving 7:30 to 11:45 a.m.
12:30 to 3:45 p.m.
Shipping 7:30 to 11:45 a.m.
12:30 to 3:45 p.m.
Main Office 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
 
Outbound United Parcel Service shipments must be received at University Stores by 1 p.m. (unless special arrangements are made by calling Shipping at 355-1700, Extension 212.)

Outbound Airfreight shipments must be received at University Stores by 3 p.m. in order for them to go out the same day.