Build the enquiry in five parts
| RFQ section | Include | Leave explicit if unresolved |
|---|---|---|
| Part identification | Reference, drawing revision, photos and required function | Whether the sample is for identification or must be replicated |
| Technical requirement | Dimensions, threads, material, finish and assembly detail | Any proposed alternative and who may approve it |
| Evidence | Required inspections, records and approval documents | Which documents are needed before sample or order approval |
| Order scope | Quantity by line, packaging, labels and delivery destination | Included mating fasteners and separately sourced items |
| Supply programme | Sample quantity, repeat demand and requested delivery dates | Supplier-confirmed lead time and quotation validity |
Attach the right product worksheet
For beam clamps, add the flange and attachment drawing. For pipe supports, add the service, insulation and required movement. For strut assemblies, identify the channel, nut, bolt and joint arrangement. For custom metal parts, supply the controlled drawing and sample-approval requirements.
Compare offers without hiding the differences
Use one line per part and separate the requested requirement from the supplier’s proposed configuration. Ask suppliers to mark exclusions and alternatives. An offer is not directly comparable if it silently omits a mating component, finish requirement or inspection record.
For an early enquiry without a final drawing, say “preliminary” and identify which dimensions are measurements and which are estimates. Move to a controlled revision before approving production. Do not fill unknown technical fields using AI-generated values.
Record what is approved
- Keep the approved drawing or sample reference with its revision and date.
- List the agreed dimensions, finish, packaging and records in the order documentation.
- Identify how later design or process changes will be reviewed.
- Retain the quotation and accepted deviations together with the purchase record.
Our quality-process page explains the existing review stages. This checklist proposes how to organize your enquiry; it does not promise a particular certification, MOQ, price or delivery time.
Send the drawing and open questions together
A practical email subject is “RFQ — [part or drawing reference] — [quantity] — [destination].” Include the technical attachments, line-item schedule and a short list of unresolved questions. This keeps early clarification separate from production approval.
Sources and scope
- Support Hardware: quotation inputs
- Support Hardware: custom manufacturing workflow
- Support Hardware: quality review stages
External sources explain general principles or their own products. They do not certify Support Hardware products. Confirm final specifications against the approved drawing, quotation and applicable project requirements.