First contact: the RFQ message

The first message decides how seriously you are answered. A busy factory ignores vague messages and replies quickly to someone who seems to know what they want.

What the message contains

1. Who you are: your brand, your location and a link to your page or site.
2. What you ask for: the product, the quantity and the attached specification.
3. What you want to know: price per piece, MOQ, sample time and cost, production time, payment terms.
4. The deadline: when you need the answer.

Short and simple

Write short sentences in plain English and attach one clear file. Avoid vague phrases such as “I want your best price”.

Reading the reply

• Did they answer all your questions or send a generic catalogue?
• Did they ask about the specification? That is a good sign.
• How long did they take? The response time hints at how follow up will go later.

Exercise

Write the RFQ message in English from the template of the last lesson and send it to five suppliers. Record the reply date and quality for each.