RFQ (Request for Quotation)

Full Definition

A Request for Quotation (RFQ) is a solicitation used under FAR Part 8 and Part 13 when the government wants to obtain price quotes for commercial products, commercial services, or simplified acquisitions. RFQs are procedurally simpler than RFPs and do not create a binding offer — vendors submit quotes rather than formal proposals. They are the standard solicitation method for purchases under the simplified acquisition threshold of $250,000 and for orders against existing GSA Schedule contracts. Evaluation typically follows a lowest-price technically-acceptable (LPTA) methodology where the government verifies that each quote meets minimum technical requirements, then awards to the lowest-priced conforming vendor. RFQs posted on GSA eBuy are limited to GSA Schedule holders only.

Why It Matters

RFQs are an excellent starting point for new government contractors because they require far less proposal effort than full RFPs. A typical RFQ response might be three to ten pages compared to a hundred-page RFP response. Small businesses should pursue RFQs on GSA eBuy if they hold a GSA Schedule, or monitor SAM.gov for open-market RFQs under simplified acquisition procedures. Responding quickly matters because many RFQs have short turnaround windows of five to fifteen days. Focus on clearly demonstrating technical compliance and offering competitive pricing. Winning several RFQ-based contracts builds past performance references that position you for larger RFP competitions later.

Example

Related Terms

More “R” Terms