How to write a PC strand RFQ
A complete RFQ lets a supplier quote accurately the first time and removes the specification changes that appear after the order is placed. These are the twelve fields that matter.
A complete RFQ is twelve fields. Most enquiries contain four.
To get a quotation you can compare and act on, state the project country and delivery port, the product name, nominal diameter, applicable standard and grade, relaxation class, quantity, coil weight or cut length, packing method, target delivery window, and any approved-vendor or inspection requirement. For post-tensioning orders, add the anchor type, the wedge or jack interface and the duct type. When these fields are complete, the supplier can confirm compatibility and lead time instead of guessing, and the offer you receive can be compared directly with another supplier's.
The twelve fields
Work through these in order. Each one removes a question the supplier would otherwise have to ask, and each one is a question that can otherwise become a change order.
Why omissions are expensive
Every field left out of the RFQ becomes a question during the offer, or a change order after the order. The pattern repeats across projects.
Attachments that help
A marked-up drawing or technical schedule saves a round of questions. If the project has a bill of materials with diameters and quantities, attach it. If there is a project specification section on prestressing, attach that too. The supplier can then confirm the standard, the diameter and the system against the documents rather than against a summary.
What happens after you send it
The export team reviews the specification, confirms the standard, diameter, quantity and system compatibility, and returns a commercial offer with packing options and lead time. If anything is ambiguous, you get a clarification question rather than a guessed price. That is why a complete RFQ usually results in a usable offer on the first reply.
Common questions on RFQs
What must an RFQ contain?
Twelve fields: project country and delivery port, product name, nominal diameter, applicable standard and grade, relaxation class, quantity, coil weight or cut length, packing method, target delivery window, approved-vendor requirement, inspection requirement, and for post-tensioning orders the anchor type, wedge or jack interface and duct type.
Why does the standard matter so much?
Because different national standards have different requirements, and a supplier can quote a cheaper standard that is not the one in your specification. Naming the standard in the enquiry lets the supplier quote against the correct requirement, and lets you compare offers on a like-for-like basis.
When should I mention inspection?
At the enquiry stage. Third-party inspection by SGS, BV or Intertek has to be priced and scheduled, and if it is requested after packing the shipment may have to be held. State the inspection body, the scope and the stage you need.
Need this confirmed for your order?
Send the standard, diameter and quantity with your inquiry and the relevant document set will be confirmed before shipment.
Contact our engineersReady to send your specification?
Use the inquiry form and include the twelve fields — our export team replies within one business day.