RFQ vs RFP

An RFQ (Request for Quotation) buys a fully specified item at the best compliant price. An RFP (Request for Proposal) buys a solution — the supplier proposes the "how", and it is scored.

RFQ — price competition on a fixed spec

The buyer already knows what it needs: model numbers, quantities, delivery terms. Suppliers quote; the lowest-priced compliant bid typically wins. There is little or no scored evaluation because there is nothing subjective to score.

RFP — competition on approach plus price

The buyer states outcomes, constraints and evaluation criteria, but leaves the method open. Suppliers submit proposals describing approach, team and price. A committee scores technical merit and price against the published weighting (e.g. 70/30).

The rule of thumb

If the specification could be written as a shopping list, it is an RFQ. If the buyer is buying judgement — services, systems, projects — it is an RFP. Between the two sits the "ranked" or "two-envelope" process used for goods plus installation.

Common questions

Can an RFQ have scored criteria?

Rarely, but some buyers add minimal-rated requirements (delivery time, warranty). Once the scoring becomes substantial, the process is effectively an RFP and should be documented as one.

Does the lowest price always win an RFQ?

Only among compliant bids. A bid that misses a mandatory requirement is excluded regardless of price, which is why non-compliance — not pricing — is the most common reason bids lose.

Which should a supplier respond to first?

RFQs are faster and cheaper to answer; RFPs are worth more but demand real proposal effort. New public-sector suppliers often start with RFQs to build buying-history references for later RFPs. Browse current opportunities by type.

Related definitions

RFP meaning · Expression of Interest (EOI) · Tender notice · Sole-source procurement