Sheet Metal Fabrication RFQ (Request for Quote) Template
A complete RFQ gets you comparable quotes the first time. This template collects the part, material, quantity, finish and inspection details a sheet metal fabricator needs, and lists what you expect in the response.
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Sheet Metal Fabrication RFQ Request Template
Request for Quote
Company: Northfield Controls Inc. Contact: A. Rivera, purchasing@example.com RFQ number: RFQ-2026-0418 Issued: 2026-10-20 Quote due: 2026-10-30
Part definition
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Part number and revision | ENC-4410 Rev C |
| Material and thickness | 5052-H32 aluminum, 2.0 mm |
| Quantities to quote | 25, 100, 500 |
| Finish | Powder coat |
| Inspection requirement | First article report |
Documents attached
Drawing (PDF) with revision, 3D model (STEP) and flat pattern DXF where available. Please advise if any file is missing or unclear.
Special requirements
Remove burrs and sharp edges. Mask threaded inserts before coating. Pack parts individually.
Please include in your quote
| Item | Supplier response |
|---|---|
| Unit price at each quantity | |
| One-time tooling or fixture cost | |
| Material cost basis and surcharge terms | |
| Lead time from order, per quantity | |
| Payment terms and quote validity | |
| Design for manufacturability comments | |
| Shipping terms and packaging |
Supplier acknowledgement
A starting point for your own purchasing process, not legal advice. Add your standard terms and confidentiality language through your normal channels. Attach drawings and models separately.
Automate RFQ tracking
Optional: a short conversation about quote comparison inside your ERP.
Optional. The tool and every export work without this. No spam.
How to use it
Fill in the fields, review the preview, then export to PDF or Word and send it with the drawing, STEP model and flat DXF. Ask for prices at several quantities so you can see the effect of setup spread across larger runs. Use the same RFQ layout for every supplier, which makes it simple to compare answers line by line in a spreadsheet or in your ERP's quote comparison.
- Always state the drawing revision.
- Ask for price breaks, not just one quantity.
- Request DFM comments in the quote.
What fabricators need to quote well
The most important inputs are the geometry, the exact material and thickness, the quantity, the finish, and the quality requirement. Missing material temper or ambiguous finish creates assumptions that show up later as price changes. Telling the supplier whether this is a prototype or a repeat production part also changes how they price setup and programming.
Comparing responses
Compare unit price at the same quantity, then tooling charges, lead time, material surcharge terms, and payment terms. A low unit price that excludes finishing, packaging or inspection is not comparable. Note the DFM suggestions, since a supplier who spots a flange or tolerance issue can save you cost on every future order. Record the winning quote and basis in your ERP purchasing record.
Common mistakes
Sending an outdated drawing, omitting the finish specification, asking for a single quantity, and giving too short a deadline lead to weak quotes. Another common problem is failing to say whether material may be substituted with an equivalent, which can change the price significantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What files should I attach to a sheet metal RFQ?
A PDF drawing with revision, a STEP model and, if you have it, a flat pattern DXF. Include the specification for any finish or standard referenced on the drawing.
How many quantities should I ask for?
Two to four, such as a prototype quantity, a typical order and an annual volume. Setup and programming costs spread differently across each, so the price breaks help you decide how to buy.
Should I ask the supplier for DFM feedback?
Yes. A short DFM comment line in the quote often reveals cost saving changes, such as a radius change or relief addition, before you commit to tooling or production.
Is this template legally binding?
It is a request for a quote, not a contract. Your purchase order and terms form the binding agreement. This template is a starting point and not legal advice.
If RFQs and supplier quotes are tracked in email and spreadsheets, we can help bring them into your ERP purchasing workflow.
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