RFP vs RFQ vs ITB (IFB): what's the difference?
Requests for proposals, requests for quotes and invitations to bid work differently. Here's what each means for how you respond and how the buyer picks a winner.
- RFQ (request for quotes): the buyer knows exactly what it wants and asks for prices. Usually smaller, simpler purchases. Lowest acceptable price often wins.
- ITB or IFB (invitation for bids): a formal sealed-bid process for clearly defined work. Bids are opened publicly and the lowest responsive, responsible bidder wins. Common for construction.
- RFP (request for proposals): the buyer describes a need and asks how you'd meet it. Proposals are scored on criteria like approach, experience, staff and price, so the cheapest doesn't automatically win.
- RFI or sources sought: not a bid. The buyer is researching the market. Responding can shape the future bid and put you on the buyer's radar.
What it means for you
For RFQs and ITBs, be complete and sharp on price. For RFPs, answer every scored criterion directly and make your experience easy to see. For RFIs, a short, clear response is worth sending if you want the eventual work.
Hiring a contractor yourself? Use one of our free request for bids templates.
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