What are RFQs?
Request for Quotations (RFQs) are documents created by buyers inviting suppliers to submit price bids for products or services. When buyers send you an RFQ, they're asking you to propose your pricing, terms, and delivery details for their requirements.
Receiving RFQ Invitations
Email Notification
When a buyer invites you to an RFQ, you receive an email notification with RFQ details including buyer company name, products or services needed, quantities and specifications, deadline for quote submission, and delivery requirements.
Private Invitations
All RFQs are private. Buyers invite specific suppliers they already know or share a link directly with you. Only invited suppliers can view and respond to each RFQ.
Reviewing RFQ Requirements
Buyer Information
See buyer company details, contact person, and any specific instructions or preferences they've included.
Product/Service Requirements
Review detailed line items including product descriptions, quantities needed, specifications or technical requirements, preferred brands or models, and any quality standards.
Terms and Conditions
Check buyer's requested payment terms, delivery timeline and location, packaging or shipping requirements, and submission deadline.
Submitting Your Quote
Method 1: Create Quote in Quotable
If you have a Quotable account, click Submit Quote > Add Quote > Create Quote.
The system opens a quote form with buyer information and line items pre-filled. Add your pricing, adjust quantities if needed, set payment terms and delivery details, attach supporting documents (specs, certifications), and click Create Quote.
Method 2: Upload Existing Quote
If you've already created a quote in your own system, click Upload Quote from the RFQ invitation. Upload your quote file (PDF, JPG, PNG). The AI Parser extracts pricing and details with 99% accuracy. Review extracted data, make any adjustments, and submit.
Quote Details to Include
Your quote should include unit prices for each line item, total amount, currency, payment terms (net 30, net 60, advance payment, etc.), delivery timeline, validity period for your quoted prices, and any terms and conditions.
After Submitting Your Quote
Confirmation
You receive email confirmation that your quote was successfully submitted. The buyer is notified of your submission and can review your quote.
Buyer Communication
Buyers may request clarifications or negotiate terms. You'll receive notifications for any buyer actions or messages related to your quote. Be sure to communicate with your buyer directly either online or offline via messenger apps, phone, etc.
Result
Responding to RFQs is simple, receive email invitation from buyers you know, review requirements, submit your best quote. Win more business by responding quickly with competitive pricing and complete information.
Tips
Respond to RFQs within 24-48 hours for best results
Use the AI Parser to upload existing quotes and save time
Include all costs in your pricing to avoid disputes later
Attach certifications and product specs to build buyer trust
Set realistic delivery timelines you can actually meet
Specify quote validity period (typically 7-30 days)
Save quote templates for products you frequently quote
Offer flexible payment terms to increase win probability
Highlight your competitive advantages in notes or attachments
Win more RFQs by responding fast with competitive quotes. No login required to submit, just click, quote, and close deals.