DFTO Ground Transportation Dynamic Market
Framework Description
The DFTO Ground Transportation Dynamic Market is run by DFT Operator Limited (DFTO) for managed bus, coach, taxi and private hire services, mainly supporting train operating companies with rail replacement. It is continuously open to new suppliers until 31 May 2034, and admitted suppliers can bid in call-off competitions run by individual train operating companies and other public sector customers. It has two lots.
Context & Use Case
Train operating companies in the DFTO group use the dynamic market for rail replacement buses and coaches during engineering works and disruption, and for taxis and private hire vehicles to move passengers when trains cannot run. Each operator runs its own call-off competitions, so admitted suppliers respond to separate invitations from different train operating companies and other public sector customers.
Scope of Services
Lot 1: Buses and coaches (rail replacement services) Lot 2: Taxis and private hire vehicles Managed transport services for train operating companies and public sector customers
Lots
Lot 1 Buses and Coaches (Rail Replacement Services); Lot 2 Taxis and Private Hire Vehicles
Who Can Apply
Bus and coach operators and taxi and private hire firms can apply for admission at any time until 31 May 2034. Applicants must show compliance with transport regulations, passenger safety standards and vehicle maintenance requirements. Smaller operators can apply for just the lot that matches their vehicles.
Buyer Benefits
Train operating companies get quick access to vetted operators when planned or unplanned disruption hits, which reduces passenger inconvenience. Competing call-offs keep prices in check, and a shared supplier pool gives consistent service standards across the operating group. Separate lots let operators source buses and taxis independently.
Next Steps
Read the notice (https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/018632-2026) and apply for admission to the relevant lot, with evidence of operator licensing, vehicle safety and maintenance, and passenger service experience. Once admitted, keep your capacity and coverage information up to date and respond quickly to call-off invitations, which can come at short notice.
How Athena Can Help
Athena can help bus, coach and taxi operators get admitted to the DFTO dynamic market. Our dynamic market admission support prepares your application and compliance evidence, and checks it before submission.
Rail replacement call-offs move quickly, so our rapid-response bid templates help you answer invitations fast with priced, compliant responses. Our transport operator bidding advice helps you choose which routes and operators to compete for. Licensing evidence is gathered once and reused.
