Guide · 2026
RFQ: request for quotation in South Africa
A request for quotation (RFQ) is the fast, price-led cousin of a tender — used for lower-value government purchases and one of the easiest ways for a small business to win its first public contract. Here's how RFQs work, how they differ from tenders, and how to catch open RFQ opportunities before they close.
Definition
What is a request for quotation?
An RFQ is a buyer asking suppliers for a price on specific, clearly defined goods or services. In South African government procurement, RFQs handle lower-value spend — usually under R1 million — where the buyer mainly needs the best competitive price, not a full technical proposal. Most are sourced from suppliers registered on the Central Supplier Database (CSD), and they open and close quickly, often within a few days.
That speed is the opportunity: RFQs need far less paperwork than a tender, so a registered, compliant supplier can quote and win the same week. They're the most accessible on-ramp into government contracting for SMMEs.
Side by side
RFQ vs tender (RFP)
| RFQ (Quotation) | Tender / RFP | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical value | Lower value (often under R1m) | Higher value / complex |
| What's asked | Your price for a defined item | Your method and price |
| Speed | Fast — days to quote | Weeks, with briefings |
| Paperwork | Light — CSD + quote | Full SBD pack + proposal |
| Best for | Supply, small services | Construction, pro services, big contracts |
Live feed · updated daily
Open opportunities to quote
FAQ
RFQ — common questions
What is an RFQ (request for quotation)?
A request for quotation (RFQ) is a buyer's request for a price on specific, well-defined goods or services. In South African government procurement, RFQs are used for lower-value purchases — typically under R1 million — where the buyer mainly needs a competitive price rather than a full technical proposal. They're faster and simpler than a tender.
What's the difference between an RFQ, an RFP, and a tender?
An RFQ asks "what's your price?" for a clearly specified item — quick, price-led, lower value. An RFP (request for proposal) or tender asks "how would you do this, and at what price?" for higher-value or complex work, with a formal, scored evaluation. RFQs suit straightforward supply and small services; tenders suit construction, professional services, and large contracts.
How do I find open RFQ opportunities in South Africa?
Many RFQs are published alongside tenders on eTenders.gov.za, the Central Supplier Database (CSD) request system, and municipal and SOE portals — but they open and close quickly, often within days. Set a free ProTenders alert for your keywords and province so you see open RFQs in time to quote, or browse the live feed below.
What do I need to respond to a government RFQ?
Usually CSD registration (most RFQs are sourced from the CSD), a valid tax PIN, a B-BBEE certificate or affidavit, and your priced quote on the buyer's RFQ form (often an SBD form). Because RFQs are awarded fast, having your compliance documents ready means you can quote the same day.
Are RFQs good for small businesses?
Yes — RFQs are one of the best entry points for SMMEs. They're lower value, need less paperwork than a full tender, are awarded quickly, and many buyers rotate them among registered CSD suppliers. Winning a few RFQs builds the track record you need for larger tenders later.