What is a Request for Quotation (RFQ)?
A Request for Quotation (RFQ) is a procurement method used by South African government departments, municipalities, and state-owned entities to obtain price quotes from registered suppliers. RFQs are typically used for purchases valued at R200,000 or less (or up to R500,000 for some entities), where the main evaluation criterion is price.
Unlike formal tenders that require detailed technical proposals and undergo complex evaluation, RFQs follow a streamlined process: the buyer specifies what they need, suppliers submit their prices, and the lowest compliant quotation wins. This makes RFQs ideal for SMMEs looking to enter government supply chains.
RFQ vs Tender — What's the Difference?
Request for Quotation (RFQ)
- Value: Up to R200,000 - R500,000
- Evaluation: Lowest price wins (price-based)
- Timeline: 3-7 days to respond
- Documentation: Simple — pricing and basic compliance
- Competition: 3+ quotes required
- Best for: SMMEs, new suppliers, standard goods
Formal Tender (ITT/RFP)
- Value: Above R500,000 (or R200,000)
- Evaluation: Price + technical + B-BBEE (80/20 or 90/10)
- Timeline: 21-60 days to respond
- Documentation: Complex — methodology, CVs, references
- Competition: Open competitive bidding
- Best for: Established suppliers, complex services
Find RFQs by Province
How to Respond to Government RFQs
Get Registered
Register on the Central Supplier Database (CSD) at csd.gov.za. This is mandatory for all government suppliers. Keep your tax clearance and B-BBEE certificate current.
Find RFQ Opportunities
Search ProTenders for RFQ opportunities matching your products or services. Filter by province, category, or department. Set up email alerts for new RFQs.
Prepare Your Quote
Download the RFQ documents, understand the specifications, and prepare a competitive price. Include delivery costs, VAT, and any applicable discounts.
Submit Before Deadline
Submit your quotation before the closing time. Include your MAAA report, pricing schedule, and any required declarations. Late submissions are not accepted.
Why RFQs Are Perfect for SMMEs
Lower Entry Barriers
RFQs don't require complex proposals or extensive track records. If you can supply what's needed at a competitive price, you can win.
Faster Payment Cycles
RFQ contracts are typically smaller and completed faster, meaning you get paid sooner. Government must pay within 30 days of invoice.
Build Your Track Record
Successfully completing RFQs builds your government experience, making you competitive for larger tenders in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Request for Quotation (RFQ)?
An RFQ is a procurement method for purchases typically under R500,000 where the buyer requests price quotes from registered suppliers. The lowest compliant quote usually wins. It's simpler and faster than formal tendering.
What is the difference between an RFQ and a tender?
RFQs are for lower-value purchases where price is the main criterion. Tenders are for larger, complex procurements where technical capability, methodology, and B-BBEE are evaluated alongside price. RFQs have shorter timelines and simpler requirements.
How do I find government RFQ opportunities?
ProTenders aggregates RFQs from the National Treasury eTender Portal, departmental websites, and municipal portals. Search by keyword "RFQ" or filter by value range to find quotation opportunities matching your business.
What documents do I need to respond to an RFQ?
Typical requirements include: CSD registration (MAAA report), valid tax clearance, company registration, B-BBEE certificate or EME affidavit, completed pricing schedule, and signed declaration forms.
Are RFQs good opportunities for small businesses?
Absolutely. RFQs are ideal for SMMEs — lower values mean less risk, simpler documentation, and faster decisions. Many departments specifically target EMEs and QSEs for RFQ opportunities.