Packaging questions that belong in an RFQ

Packaging is part of the product a buyer receives. An RFQ that says only “standard export packing” leaves dimensions, protection, labelling, and cost open to interpretation. Describe the retail unit, inner pack, and master carton separately.

Give measurable inputs

State units per carton, allowed carton dimensions or weight, cushioning requirement, barcode or label data, and artwork revision. Identify which party supplies artwork and who approves a print proof. If transit damage is a concern, specify the agreed test or inspection method rather than promising that any named box type is safe.

Compare like scope

Ask the supplier to price packaging as included, separate, or optional. Request carton count and packed dimensions for the quoted quantity, because they affect freight estimates. A cost reduction that removes protection is an alternative proposal, not a saving on the original specification. Carry the final packaging version into the purchase order and sample approval record.

Worked packaging line

For an illustrative order of 480 lamps, enter “one retail box per lamp; 12 retail boxes per master carton; label artwork R3” in the RFQ builder packaging field. Copy the checklist and ask for carton dimensions, packed weight, label proof, and whether the quoted unit price includes both box levels. A bidder proposing 24 units per carton should price that as an alternative. Common error: accepting a cheaper carton quote without checking the revised freight volume or transit protection.

Source context: Microsoft Learn — Requests for quotation (RFQs) overview supports this limited point: An RFQ can request prices, delivery times, incidental charges, and discounts. The buyer procedure above is Suppliers Help editorial guidance. Source checked 2026-09-27.