Rules
for import request are pretty much on same lines
as that of export offer (please see last week's
discussion). A request for quotation must be precise,
quantified, practical and convincing. Learning
the rules not only help buyers get good response
from authentic sellers but also help sellers and
agents to judge the requester.
Here's few points to remember while
requesting quotation:
Identity
The buyer must state his/her full
contact details including name of contact person,
mailing address, telephone, fax, e-mail and www
home address (if any).
If you receive a request for quotation
(RFQ) with no or insufficient details about identity
of the sender - then request more information
before sending quotation. Any request with scant
details on buyer's identity is perhaps not worth
pursuing.
Background
Some information about context or
background is extremely helpful for timely and
knowledgeable response. It not only helps sellers
to respond with relevant information but also
helps buyers in cutting down negotiation time
by avoiding un-necessary exchange of mails. A
RFQ for same product may come from
The nature of response from seller
may vary considerably for each of the above groups
though product may be same. Buyers can save considerable
time by providing a brief context of the request.
Supporting
Information/Documents
Mention your official export-import
registration number, bank name, affiliation etc.
wherever necessary. A link to corporate web-site
saves considerable time and effort. Generally
all information that contributes to establish
your credibility will support your business. You
may be well known in your country but not necessarily
abroad !
Product
Specification
This is the most important and core
of any import request. Nothing frustrates a seller
more than an incomplete and imprecise request
for quotation. Insufficient or improper product
description/specifications reflects poorly on
credibility of buyer and fails to evoke response
from authentic sellers.
Quantity
Remember, price depends on quantity
to a great extent. It will be difficult for a
seller to quote price without knowing minimum
order quantity
Mode
of Shipment / Destination / Delivery Period
Without clear statement or preference
of buyer on above the seller may quote something
default (e. g. FOB) - leading to waste of time
and money in exchanging mails.
Common
Mistakes
-
Insufficient contact details
-
To ask a quotation without specifying
quantity, exact quality, delivery time etc.
-
Offer of several completely
different products
-
Too low or too expensive prices
vis-à-vis market prices
-
Offer of quasi non-existent
products in a country
-
To propose a factory for 5 million
dollars with Hotmail address and portable
phone or a tel/fax contact
-
To ask for financing without
any contribution except an idea
-
To ask a 100% financing
-
To ask for a financial partnership
without an appraisal and financial report
from a recognized specialized accounting firm
-
To ask for goods on credit in
first transaction
-
To ask for samples on introduction
|
