Counties use RFQs when they know exactly what they want and mainly need a price: a load of road gravel, a set of office chairs, a small repair. The RFQ lists the items or scope, quantities, delivery terms and a deadline.
How an RFQ differs from other requests
- Compared with an invitation for bids, an RFQ is usually smaller and less formal. Many counties accept quotes by email.
- Compared with a request for proposals, price matters most. The county isn't scoring your approach or experience.
What to send
Answer exactly what is asked: unit prices, totals, delivery time, how long your price holds, and any forms the RFQ lists (often a W-9). Don't add conditions the RFQ doesn't allow; they can make your quote unacceptable.
State law sets the dollar ranges where quotes are required instead of formal bids. See our state guides for Texas, Indiana and Iowa.
Questions
Is an RFQ the same as a bid?
Not quite. An RFQ is usually less formal than an invitation for bids: quotes may be emailed or faxed and are often for smaller purchases, while formal bids are sealed and opened in public.
How long do I have to answer an RFQ?
Often one to two weeks, sometimes less. The deadline is in the RFQ itself.