A request for quotation (RFQ, or price request) is the written request by which a buyer invites a supplier to price the manufacture of a product or a service. The quote is the supplier’s response: a price offer, with terms and a validity period. The order comes next: by placing it, or by accepting the offer, the buyer formalises its commitment. Distinguishing these three documents avoids many misunderstandings.
The quality of the response depends on that of the request. A workshop that receives a drawing alone has to guess the quantity, the exact material, the level of inspection or the lead time: it then prices a cautious assumption, asks questions and loses time, or declines to respond. Conversely, a complete request produces serious, comparable quotes faster. That is why it relies on a specification and a definition drawing.
Consulting several suppliers on the same scope is common practice. This is what a marketplace like Meaflow makes possible: the buyer describes the need in a request, several workshops send their price proposals and the buyer compares before choosing. Posting is free and commission-free.
Points not to forget
- the dimensioned drawing and the 3D model (STEP);
- the precise material and the level of traceability;
- quantities, in several price breaks if possible, and the ordering rhythm;
- tolerances, surface finishes and treatments;
- the inspections and documents expected;
- the lead time wanted, the delivery location and the deadline for replies;
- where relevant, a non-disclosure agreement.
Finally, state your selection criteria: price matters, but so do lead time, quality or proximity. The guide comparing subcontracting quotes explains how to analyse the responses.