Formation
The contract is governed by the UCC, so both parties must Merchants. The Offeror - the merchant who offers to sell goods - offers to sell goods to the buyer (offeror). This offer remains on the table for either an express or implied period of time. If express, the contract itself contains the amount of time the buyer has to make a decision. In order for the period of time to be implied, certain conditions must be met according to the UCC which will trigger a “gap-filler” provision (more below). There must also be adequate consideration - money - stated between both parties.
Implied Offer
Even if the offeror does not expressly state a period of time during which the offer cannot be revoked, the Firm Offer Rule will be deemed applicable if:
An offer to buy or sell goods exists,
There is a signed agreement that the offer will be open, but does not state the time frame during which the offer is open, and
Both parties are Merchants, and therefore more familiar than the average layperson with buying and selling goods.
If these conditions are met, the UCC mandates that the offer stay open for a period of 3 months (90 days).
Drafting Contracts for Goods
In drafting a contract for the sale of goods, be aware that the Firm Offer Rule could apply. You can use our template for a contract for the sale of goods to help you. Additionally, it is always advisable to have an attorney look over any draft agreement you wish to submit to another party.
This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Rocket Lawyer is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.
