Request for quotation

Request for a quote to purchase products or services A request for quotation (RfQ) is a business process in which a company or public entity requests a quote from a supplier for the purchase of specific products or services. RfQ generally means the same thing as Call for bids (CfB) and Invitation for bid (IfB). An RfQ typically involves more than the price per item. Information like payment terms, quality level per item or contract length may be requested during the bidding process. To receive correct quotes, RfQs often include the specifications of the items/services to make sure all the suppliers are bidding on the same item/service. Logically, the more detailed the specifications, the more accurate the quote will be and comparable to the other suppliers. Another reason for being detailed in sending out an RfQ is that the specifications could be used as legal binding documentation for the suppliers. The ubiquitous availability of the Internet has made many government agencies turn either to state-run or vendor operated websites which provide listings of RfQs as well as RfIs and RfPs. Many allow vendors to sign up at no charge to receive e-mails of requests either generally or for