Purchasing & Procure-to-Pay

Request for Quotation (RFQ)

Also known as: RFQ

A request for quotation (RFQ) is a document a buyer sends to suppliers asking them to price a clearly defined list of goods or services.

An RFQ is used when the requirement is well specified and the main variable is price. It lists items, quantities, specifications and commercial terms so suppliers quote on a like-for-like basis, making the responses directly comparable. RFQs suit repeat purchases and standard goods.

Where the requirement is more complex or the best solution is not yet defined, buyers use a request for proposal (RFP) instead, which invites suppliers to propose an approach. A clear, standardised RFQ speeds up evaluation and reduces back-and-forth chasing missing details.

Frequently asked questions

What is an RFQ?
A request for quotation (RFQ) is a document asking suppliers to price a defined list of goods or services, so the buyer can compare quotes on a like-for-like basis.
What is the difference between an RFQ and an RFP?
An RFQ is used when the requirement is well defined and price is the main variable. An RFP is used for complex needs where you want suppliers to propose a solution, not just a price.

Explore related across the knowledge graph

GlossaryReverse AuctionA reverse auction is a competitive event where pre-qualified suppliers bid the price down in real time to win a buyer's business.GuideERP integrationConnecting the procurement channel to the ERP so requisitions, orders and invoices flow between systems without manual re-keying.GuideProcure-to-payThe operational cycle that turns an approved need into a purchase order, a delivery, a matched invoice and a payment.ToolFree Procurement Tools & TemplatesEvery Lapasar procurement calculator plus editable RFQ, purchase order, policy and evaluation templates.TemplateProcurement SOP TemplateAn editable Word and PDF standard operating procedure covering the buying process from requisition to payment.ResearchThe Hidden Cost of Manual Procurement in Malaysian EnterprisesWhat manual purchase orders really cost Malaysian enterprises — USD 30–506 per PO, millions in hidden overhead, and new Government Procurement Act 2025 exposure.GlossaryAccrualsAccruals are accounting entries that recognise expenses which have been incurred but not yet invoiced, so costs appear in the correct period.GlossaryApproval WorkflowAn approval workflow is the defined sequence of authorisations a purchase must pass through before it can proceed, based on rules such as value or category.GuideCatalogue managementCurating the products, prices and data buyers order from — the foundation that makes catalogue and marketplace buying fast, accurate and compliant.SolutionCorporate Procurement Software in MalaysiaE-procurement for Malaysian enterprises: catalogue, approvals, spend analytics and ERP punchout — backed by vetted suppliers and owned fulfilment.SolutionDoes a 'Neutral' Procurement Platform Serve Buyers Better?Is a 'neutral' procurement platform better for buyers? Why owned warehouses, fleet and fulfilment accountability beat a hands-off middleman.SolutionEnterprise B2B MarketplaceCorporate procurement and e-marketplace backed by owned warehousing and delivery across Peninsular Malaysia.TemplateBudget Request FormAn editable Excel and PDF form to itemise, justify and route a budget request for approval.TemplatePurchase Order (PO) TemplateAn editable Excel purchase order with automatic subtotal, tax and grand-total calculations.ComparisonBest B2B Marketplace in MalaysiaHow to evaluate B2B procurement marketplaces in Malaysia — owned infrastructure, sourcing depth and enterprise fit.

Put procurement theory into practice

Talk to our team about wholesale pricing, credit terms, sourcing support and delivery across Peninsular Malaysia — or explore the marketplace built for Malaysian enterprises.

Prefer to talk to a real person?

Our team replies fast on WhatsApp and email — no forms, no waiting.