How to Write a Metal RFQ That Gets Accurate Quotes Fast: Tolerances, Certs, and Specs
Every metal supplier has seen it: an RFQ that reads "copper bar, 1/4 x 4, 200 pieces." It's a start — but without alloy, temper, length, tolerance, and certification requirements, the quote that comes back is either padded with assumptions or wrong. A complete RFQ gets faster, sharper pricing and prevents surprises at receiving inspection.
The RFQ Checklist
1. Material Designation
Use the UNS number (e.g., C11000, 6101, C36000) and the governing ASTM specification. "Copper" or "brass" alone can mean a dozen alloys. Our metals overview lists the grades we stock.
2. Temper
State the temper code (O60, H02, T6, etc.). Temper affects formability, machinability, and price. See our guide to copper temper designations.
3. Dimensions and Form
Give thickness, width, and length — and specify whether length is random, cut-to-length, or multiples. Note edge condition (square, rounded, full round) for bus bar.
4. Tolerances
If you don't state tolerances, the supplier will default to the standard mill tolerances of the governing ASTM spec — for copper bus bar, ASTM B187; for general wrought copper products, ASTM B249. Call out tighter tolerances only where function requires them; they add cost.
| Feature | Standard Practice | When to Tighten |
|---|---|---|
| Cut length | ±1/16" to ±1/8" saw cut | Assemblies with fixed hole patterns |
| Flatness | Mill standard | Stacked laminations, bolted joints |
| Hole position | Per drawing | Mating to existing equipment |
5. Certifications and Compliance
Specify whether you need mill test reports, certificates of conformance, country-of-origin documentation, or compliance with DFARS 252.225-7009 specialty-metals rules. Aerospace and defense buyers should note quality system requirements — Maverick operates under AS9100D and ISO 9001 (see About Us).
6. Secondary Operations
List punching, drilling, bending, deburring, plating (tin, silver, nickel), and insulation needs. Attach a drawing whenever possible. Our machined parts and fabrication team can quote these together with raw material.
7. Quantity, Packaging, and Delivery
Include quantities at multiple break points, required delivery date, ship-to location, and packaging requirements (skids, boxes, interleaving to protect surfaces).
8. Pricing Basis
For copper and aluminum, ask whether pricing is firm or indexed to COMEX copper or the Midwest aluminum average. For volatile markets, see our procurement strategy guide.
The Payoff
A complete RFQ typically gets quoted faster, with fewer clarification emails and fewer hidden assumptions. It also gives your receiving team clear criteria to inspect against.
Ready to send one? Submit your RFQ to Maverick Metals or email rfq@mavmet.com — attach drawings and we'll respond quickly.