Numerous projects study the factors that have an impact on the efficiency of public procurement systems. The main objective of this research is to use the South African context to identify some of the factors that are critical for better performance and efficiency of public procurement. The research then used Structural Equation Modelling to test the relationships between the identified factors and efficiency, as well as the strength of those relationships. Structured questionnaires were sent to selected respondents in public organisations in South Africa and the responses obtained were utilised to test the research hypotheses developed. The research found that excessive bureaucracy, compliance, and supplier relationship management have a strong influence on efficiency in public procurement. This study contributes to the understanding of various factors that influence public procurement and the impact of that influence. Understanding such factors will assist entities with controlling such factors and improving the efficiency public procurement processes.