Need a Travel Planning And Consultation Contract in Massachusetts? AroundWire Can Help

In Massachusetts, contracts for Travel Planning and Consultation services—whether for public agencies or private entities—typically require clear statements of scope, deliverables, and pricing structures, often favoring fixed-fee or capped hourly rates. Vendors must comply with state procurement laws, including Chapter 30B for municipal contracts, which mandates competitive bidding above certain thresholds. Licensing is not generally required for travel consultants in Massachusetts, but agencies booking travel may need to register as sellers of travel in some jurisdictions; due diligence is advised. Contracts often specify minimum insurance coverages: general liability (commonly $1 million per occurrence), professional liability, and, if applicable, workers’ compensation. Indemnification clauses are standard, with public entities generally restricted from agreeing to broad indemnification due to state law. Data privacy is a concern if client or traveler information is handled, requiring compliance with the Massachusetts Data Security Law (201 CMR 17.00). Payment terms typically range from net 30 to net 45 days, with clear invoicing requirements. Risk factors include errors in travel arrangements, cancellations, and data breaches; contracts often address these through limitation of liability and force majeure provisions. Dispute resolution preferences in the state lean toward mediation or arbitration before litigation, and Massachusetts law is usually specified as governing law. Public sector contracts may include additional requirements, such as affirmative action, non-discrimination clauses, and compliance with state ethics laws.