RFQ (Request for Quotation)
A buyer's formal request asking suppliers to quote price and terms for specific goods, quantities and delivery conditions.
TL;DR: An RFQ is a document or message a buyer sends to suppliers asking for a price on clearly defined goods. The clearer the RFQ, the easier it is to compare quotes fairly.
A good RFQ describes the product, the quantity, and the quality you expect. For tile and mosaic, this may include size, material, finish, color references, drawings or photos, and the total area in square meters. It should also state the delivery terms, such as an Incoterm and named place, the target delivery date, and the packing you need.
Suppliers use the RFQ to calculate cost and check if they can meet your needs. They may reply with a quotation or a proforma invoice. Expect questions if details are missing, since custom work often depends on design, sample approval and order size.
When comparing quotes from China, make sure each one uses the same Incoterm, currency and validity period. An EXW price and a CIF price are not directly comparable. Also check what is included, such as samples, packing, and inspection, and whether the MOQ and lead time fit your project.
For fragile or heavy goods, ask how the goods will be packed, for example in cartons on wooden crates or pallets, and what the gross weight and CBM will be. These numbers help you estimate freight before you place an order. Compare with PI, MOQ and Lead Time.