A complete RFQ to Turkish factories includes: tech pack, target FOB, MOQ tolerance, lead-time need, payment terms, certification asks, sample expectations, packaging brief. Send to 5-8 factories simultaneously; expect responses in 3-7 days.
- RFQ recipients
- 5-8 factories
- Response time
- 3-7 days
- Tech pack pages
- 5-15
- Target FOB shown
- Yes, range
- Quote validity
- 30 days standard
What to include in the RFQ
Cover letter (brand background, order context, decision timeline), tech pack PDF, fabric swatches photos, target FOB range, MOQ ceiling, lead-time need, payment terms, certifications required, sample expectations, label and packaging brief.
Always show a target FOB range, not a fixed price. This signals you understand market pricing without anchoring too low.
Tech pack structure
Cover page with style number and season. Garment sketch (front, back, side) with callouts. Measurement spec across grade. Construction details (stitch type per seam, density). Fabric BOM. Trim BOM (buttons, zips, threads, labels). Packaging instructions.
For first-time submissions, attach reference photos showing the look-feel of similar successful products. This helps factories quote competitively.
Factory shortlist
Source 5-8 factories per district matching your category. Use Trade Council databases, Alibaba Verified Suppliers, sourcing platform reviews, or sourcing agents.
Cross-reference with audit reports (BSCI, SMETA, SA8000). Avoid factories with no current third-party audit, no business registration verification, or address-only contact details.
Sending the RFQ
Email with PDF attachments to dedicated sales contacts. Avoid generic info@ addresses for first contact. Use clear subject lines: BRAND - Style XYZ RFQ - Quotation Request.
Include a response deadline (typically 5-7 days). For complex programs, request a video call before quotation to clarify spec.
Reading and comparing quotations
Compare on full cost: FOB + freight (if quoted CIF or DAP) + sample fee + customs + finishing extras. Look beyond per-piece price to MOQ flexibility, payment terms, lead time and certification scope.
Red flag: quotations missing line-item breakdowns. Request transparent costing on fabric, trims, labour and margin.
Negotiating after quotations
Most quotations have 10-20% negotiation room on first orders. Levers: increased volume, lower colour count, accepted shared fabric, L/C payment, multi-season commitment.
Document final pricing in a proforma invoice (PI) signed by both parties. PI is binding once deposit is paid.