UK Procurement Glossary
Request for Quotation (RFQ)
A request for a price quote against a defined specification — used for simpler, lower-value procurements where price is the primary differentiator.
Definition
A Request for Quotation (RFQ) is a buyer's request for pricing against a defined specification, used when the goods or services are well-understood and the buyer's main decision factor is price. RFQs are typical for lower-value procurements (under-£50k) where running a full tender would be disproportionate.
RFQ responses are usually short — a price, lead time, and confirmation of compliance with the specification. Sometimes a few sentences on approach or relevant experience are included.
How this affects your bid
Keep RFQ responses tight. The buyer wants a credible price quickly. Long marketing-led responses to RFQs often signal mismatch with the procurement style and reduce win-rate.
Common questions about request for quotation (rfq)
Are RFQs published publicly?
Under-threshold UK public sector RFQs may or may not be advertised on Contracts Finder depending on value. Many are sent directly to selected suppliers.
Is an RFQ price binding?
Usually yes for the period stated in the RFQ (typically 30-90 days). Submit prices you can stand behind operationally.
Related terms
Invitation to Tender (ITT)
The formal document a UK public sector buyer issues inviting suppliers to submit a tend…
Request for Proposal (RFP)
A formal document inviting suppliers to propose a solution to a defined business need —…
Below-Threshold
A UK public sector contract whose estimated value is below the financial threshold for …
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