Buyer guidance
What to include in a coatings RFQ to CHENICS
A request for quotation works best when it explains the application behind the product name. “We need industrial paint” gives a supplier little basis for checking the requested scope. You can make a first enquiry useful without knowing every technical detail: state what you know and mark the rest as open.
This guide is an enquiry preparation aid. It does not establish product suitability, export eligibility, a minimum order quantity or a supply commitment.
Describe the application before the price target
Identify the substrate, the end product and the conditions in which it will be used. Mention whether an existing coating is present. If you are replacing an existing material, include its exact product name when available and explain why you are considering a change.
Colour and gloss should be described separately from performance requirements. A reference photograph can help a conversation, but agree with the supplier how the final appearance will be evaluated. A screen image alone should not be treated as an approved production standard.
RFQ information sheet
| Section | Information to provide |
|---|---|
| Company and contact | Company name, contact person, business email and country |
| Intended use | End product, substrate and indoor or outdoor use |
| Current process | Existing product and application method, if known |
| Target finish | Colour reference, gloss and transparent or opaque finish |
| Quantity | Trial quantity, first order estimate and possible repeat demand |
| Delivery destination | Country and proposed destination; mark undecided details |
| Timing | Target evaluation date and required supply date |
| Documents | Requested technical information and the reason it is needed |
Avoid combining trial quantity and annual forecast into one number. The supplier needs to understand which quantity is being quoted now. Forecasts should be labelled as estimates rather than promised orders.
Explain your evaluation process
Tell the supplier who will evaluate the sample and which questions the trial needs to answer. If your customer requires a specific test report, identify the requirement and ask whether relevant evidence is available. Do not assume that a general company certificate proves a particular coating meets every end-use requirement.
Discuss shipment feasibility after identifying the exact product. The information needed by a logistics provider may differ from what is needed for a commercial quotation. Ask which product documents can be shared for that separate review.
A first enquiry you can adapt
We are evaluating coatings for [end product] in [country]. The substrate is [material], and the intended use is [environment]. Our trial quantity is [estimate], with a possible first order of [estimate]. Please advise which additional information is needed to review the application, and which technical documents and sample arrangements are available.
For the first contact, avoid sending bank credentials or confidential customer records. Share the basic project description, then agree on the documents required for the next step.
Related information
Review CHENICS products and company information before sending your enquiry. Availability and commercial conditions will be confirmed for the specific request.