QUICK BUYER ANSWER
The practical answer
A useful RFQ defines the same product and commercial scope for every supplier. Include the intended use, specification or reference, quantity by variant, artwork, packing, required evidence, destination, requested trade basis and decision schedule. Ask suppliers to list assumptions and exclusions.
Identify the exact buying route
State whether you want stock units, logo customization on an existing model, modification of a platform or a fully custom OEM product. Attach model links, drawings or annotated reference photos. Suppliers cannot price equivalent work when the development scope remains ambiguous.
Break quantity into real variants
List units by model, capacity, color, artwork and packaging language. Ask the supplier to state which minimum applies to each split. Include expected annual demand only as planning context; the quotation should clearly identify the committed order quantity.
Describe the complete product
Include dimensions, material priorities, seams, closure, pockets, straps, hardware, logo and relevant use conditions. Mark required and optional features. Request separate prices for alternatives so cost-saving decisions do not silently change the core product.
Align quality and documentation
State sample approval needs, inspection expectations and any model-specific performance or market documentation to be reviewed. Ask what is included, what requires third-party work and who pays. Avoid asking for a general certificate without explaining the target product and market.
Make freight assumptions visible
Provide destination country, postcode or port and ask for the quoted trade basis to be named. Clarify individual packing, carton assumptions, production time after approval, transit estimate and excluded destination charges. Use your freight adviser to compare landed cost on the same basis.
Use this table in supplier discussions
| Review area | Buyer input | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Product | Route, dimensions and construction | Defines what is being quoted |
| Variants | Quantity by SKU and artwork | Reveals applicable minimums |
| Quality | Sample, inspection and evidence | Prices the approval scope |
| Delivery | Packing, destination and trade basis | Supports landed-cost comparison |
Information to include in your inquiry
- Product type or reference model
- Quantity by size, color and artwork
- Intended use and required features
- Destination and required delivery date
- Sample, packing and evidence requirements
Frequently asked buyer questions
Why do factory quotes for the same picture vary widely?
Suppliers may assume different materials, dimensions, closures, accessories, packing or trade terms. A complete RFQ narrows those differences.
What information gets the fastest useful response?
Send the model or reference, quantity by variant, logo needs, destination and required date first, followed by detailed specifications and evidence requirements.
DRYCROSS · DONGGUAN, CHINA
Turn the checklist into a project brief
Send the reference model, quantity, destination and requirements that matter to your customer. DryCross will review the scope before confirming a quotation.
Discuss this sourcing project