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What to Include in an RFQ for Custom Acrylic or Polycarbonate Components

Custom PC cover panel used in an OEM quotation review

Direct answer: A complete RFQ lets suppliers quote the same scope. Include the controlled drawing, material and grade, finish, artwork, adhesive, prototype and order quantities, quality requirements, packaging, Incoterm request, destination, and schedule.

Make quotes comparable

If suppliers receive different assumptions, their prices are not comparable. A complete RFQ should identify mandatory requirements, preferred options, open decisions, and acceptable alternatives.

Ask each supplier to list deviations and exclusions. A low quote that omits printing, adhesive, protective film, inspection, or packaging may not represent the required landed scope.

RFQ information checklist

CategoryRequired information
Part identityPart number, name, drawing revision, artwork revision
MaterialPMMA, PC, composite, grade or required performance, thickness
GeometryDimensions, tolerances, holes, cutouts, windows, edge finish
AppearanceColor, tint, gloss, texture, coating, visible-face criteria
PrintingVector artwork, colors, opacity, transparent zones, registration
AssemblyAdhesive, liner, fasteners, gasket, mating substrate
QuantityPrototype quantity, first order, forecast ranges if available
QualityCritical characteristics, inspection method, reports, sample approval
LogisticsPackaging, labels, destination, requested Incoterm, delivery target
Polycarbonate panel details documented for an RFQ package

Separate facts from options

Write “required” for features that cannot change and “supplier proposal requested” for open choices. If PMMA and PC are both acceptable, request separate options rather than letting suppliers silently choose.

Do not ask for a named certification unless it applies to the component and you can define the required evidence. For finished-product compliance, state the relevant product category and the buyer's evidence requirements.

Ask commercial questions precisely

MOQ, sample cost, tooling, unit price, lead time, payment, and Incoterms depend on specification and quantity. Request them as separate line items and ask how long the quote remains valid.

Clarify whether prices include artwork setup, adhesive, protective film, individual packaging, inspection reports, export cartons, and freight. Do not infer inclusions from a product page.

Custom control panel opening and surface finish for sourcing

Close the sourcing loop

  1. Issue the same RFQ revision to shortlisted suppliers.
  2. Log questions and distribute material clarifications consistently.
  3. Compare scope, deviations, evidence, and communication—not price alone.
  4. Approve a production-intent sample and controlled specification.
  5. Place the order with the exact approved revisions and packaging requirements.

Use the contact page to submit your RFQ and review the PC and PMMA product groups for relevant examples.

Buyer FAQ

Can we request a quote with only a product photo?

A photo may start a discussion, but accurate quoting normally requires dimensions, material, processing, artwork, quantity, and quality expectations.

Should prototype and production quantities be quoted together?

Yes. They may use different processes or cost structures, so list them separately.

How should we compare supplier alternatives?

Require each alternative to state material, construction, performance assumptions, included processing, sample plan, and commercial impact.

Is the lowest MOQ always the best option?

No. Evaluate total cost, tooling, unit price, sample validation, packaging, inventory risk, and repeat-order consistency.

What compliance documents should we request?

Request only documents relevant to the finished product, material, and market. The responsible importer or compliance team should define them.

What causes quotation changes later?

Common causes include drawing revisions, material changes, added printing or adhesive, quantity changes, tighter tolerances, packaging changes, and missing freight assumptions.

Key takeaway

A complete RFQ lets suppliers quote the same scope. Include the controlled drawing, material and grade, finish, artwork, adhesive, prototype and order quantities, quality requirements, packaging, Incoterm request, destination, and schedule. Confirm every open point against the final specification and approved sample.

Send the project details for review

For a comparable quotation, submit the product type, material, dimensions and tolerances, application environment, customization files, prototype and order quantities, packaging requirements, destination country, and requested delivery window.

Submit the project information through our contact page. Specifications, MOQ, price, sample timing, and production timing will be confirmed for the final project.

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