Glossary
RFQ
Also called: request for quote, request for quotation, quote request
Reviewed
An RFQ (request for quote) is the document a buyer sends to pallet suppliers asking them to price a pallet. A good pallet RFQ states the size, the load and how it is supported and handled, the quantity and annual volume, delivery details, and compliance needs such as ISPM 15 or a PDS report.
What a pallet RFQ should include
| Area | Fields |
|---|---|
| Pallet | size (L x W, stringer length first), type, drawing or spec, or "design to requirements" |
| Load | maximum and average weight, load type (cartons, bags, drums), unit load size |
| Support and handling | rack type and span, stack height, forklift or pallet jack, conveyors or AS/RS, deflection limit |
| Use | reusable or single-use; new, recycled or combo allowed |
| Compliance | ISPM 15 (HT), moisture content, PDS report or ASTM D1185 / ISO 8611 test, retailer program |
| Commercial | initial quantity, annual volume, release frequency, ship-to, delivery method, quote due date |
| Quality | tolerances, samples or first-article approval, marking and branding |
Why requirements beat board sizes
Giving the load and support conditions lets a mill propose a design, value-engineer it and rate it. Giving only board sizes invites like-for-like quotes that may carry the load poorly or cost more than needed. NWPCA's LoadSync tool was built around this idea.
palletdesign.ai turns a plain-language description into a drawing, parts list and cost estimate that can be attached to an RFQ. See how to write a pallet RFQ and bill of materials.
Questions
- What information do pallet suppliers need to quote?
- Size, load weight and type, how the pallet is stored and handled, quantity and annual volume, delivery location and any compliance requirements such as ISPM 15.