2026-10-18 09:00:00
A clear request for quotation (RFQ) helps international buyers receive accurate, comparable offers and reduces avoidable clarification rounds. For steel products, the most useful RFQ combines technical specifications with order quantities, delivery expectations and destination requirements.
1. Identify the product and applicable standard
State the product form—such as hot-rolled coil, galvanized sheet, H-beam, rebar, seamless pipe or wire rod—and name the required standard and grade. If the project accepts more than one standard, list the alternatives and explain any priority.
2. Specify dimensions and tolerances
Include thickness, width, length, outside diameter, wall thickness or section size as relevant. Clarify dimensional tolerances, cut lengths, edge condition and whether mixed dimensions are acceptable.
3. Confirm quantity and order structure
Provide total tonnage and, where possible, quantities by size or grade. State whether trial orders, partial shipments or mixed loading are acceptable. Minimum order quantities and production availability must be confirmed for the specific product.
4. Define quality documents and inspection
List required test certificates, inspection scope, marking rules and any third-party inspection requirements. For regulated or project-critical applications, confirm documentation requirements before placing an order.
5. Explain packing and destination
Share the destination country and port, preferred shipment window, packing or bundling instructions, labeling language and any import-market requirements known to your team.
RFQ checklist
- Product name, grade and standard
- Dimensions, tolerances and quantity by specification
- Required certificates and inspection scope
- Packing, marking and loading requirements
- Destination port, target shipment date and trade terms for quotation
When some details are not yet decided, mark them as pending rather than leaving them ambiguous. The supplier can then identify which items need confirmation before a firm quotation is issued.