When you’re requesting a quote from a metal supplier, certain factors will impact the cost and overall feasibility of the request. If the information you provide is incomplete, you risk not getting what you need, or not getting it when you need it. For example, a supplier might quote a material that doesn’t exactly meet the required specification or can’t be delivered until it’s too late for your production run.
In the best-case scenario, you’ll pay more for an alloy with better properties than the application requires. In the worst case, it might not have the characteristics necessary to ensure dependable long-term performance. Conversely, it’s also possible to provide too much information. Long explanations of anticipated quantities, details of the planned finishing processes, or descriptions of application usage might seem relevant, but risk confusing the person or team developing the RFQ response.
When requesting a quote for specialty bar and plate, focus on these details:
The complete dimensions of the item. Knowing the size requirements ensures suppliers can offer alternative recommendations if the requested material dimensions aren’t available or feasible.
For plates, width is limited by the rolling mill’s dimensions. Likewise, bar diameter or cross-section is constrained by metallurgical factors.
Costs are minimized by working with standard mill dimensions, which avoids cutting operations. Larger, specialized bar and plate sizes are sometimes available, but requesting an unusually large size will limit the number of possible suppliers.
The RFQ should always state the quantity needed, either in number of pieces or in pounds. Pieces are more straightforward, but there are scenarios where pounds make more sense. It’s also helpful to mention if the order is a one-off or if regular deliveries will be needed, and if so, how volumes are expected to change over time.
Remember that there’s a link between quantity and timeline. An order that needs 1,000 cuts will probably not be delivered within a 24-hour window. However, orders could be split into smaller quantities to speed the initial receipt.
Some suppliers require a minimum quantity for ordering. If your RFQ is below this, you may receive a “no quote” response. There are some exceptions, but Source One Metals does not have any such restrictions and welcomes any quantities on items in stock.
In the RFQ, always state when delivery is needed so the supplier can assess the potential impacts of time needed for cutting or other preparation, quantity, material availability, and transportation.
If an order is to be broken down into multiple deliveries, this should be stated clearly so the supplier can plan accordingly.
Delivery location has a significant impact on the timeline. If the location is left out, the supplier may assume delivery is to the address where the purchaser is based. Additionally, keep in mind that tight deadlines and extended transport distances will inevitably affect cost. If you’re based in California and ordering from a Michigan-based supplier like Source One Metals, a next-day timeline will result in a higher transportation cost.
While not always necessary, be sure to let suppliers know if any particular specifications, or certifications are required. For example, test reports, which require tight chemical or mechanical analysis can be valuable, and should be requested at the time of inquiry. Obtaining the required information could potentially add time and cost to the order.
The RFQ should include details on the type of alloy needed, but it’s not essential to be overly detailed, as suppliers can provide recommendations tailored to the intended application. However, in some cases, the alloy is very tightly defined. If it’s a specialty metal intended for government applications, it may also need to meet Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) requirements, so mention this in the RFQ, too.
It’s helpful if the UNS number is available, but AISI, ASTM, and SAE references are all good, too. If substitutions are possible, that should also be mentioned in the RFQ. For example, if a spec calls for a C17510 copper alloy, but C18000 would also work, mentioning this will let a supplier explore a wider range of options.
Many alloys undergo a range of treatments. Aluminum 6061 is a good example because it can be extruded, drawn, or heat treated to different tempers. 6061 plate is often used in the T651 condition, while T6511, or T651, is sometimes applied to plate or cold finished round bar. If all the details are known, include them in the RFQ; if not, ask for options.
Source One Metals is committed to being your trusted supplier for specialty metals.
We’ve made the RFQ process easier for you by developing a form that includes all the details we’ve mentioned in this article. Our goal is to ensure we deliver the exact alloys you need, in the form you need them, and when you need them.
If you prefer speaking directly with a team member, contact us at (586) 701-6449.
With decades of experience and strong mill relationships, we’re more than just a distributor—we’re your trusted partner. Let us help you find what others can’t.
