Streamline has an experienced staff and a large network of factories in many industries to which to submit requests. We are confident that you will be more than pleased with our speed, professionalism, and prices. Below is an overview of our RFQ process.

RFQ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• How long will it usually take to receive a quote response to an RFQ?
• How long are quotes valid?
• Is it necessary to submit a sample to Streamline?
• Does order size matter?
• Is it possible to find an exact replica of what I want?
• Does Streamline provide supplier samples?
• Are there any mold fees or tooling costs attributable to the RFQ process?
• Where are Streamline’s factories locations?
• Will Streamline sign Confidentiality and Non-disclosure Agreements?
  
  
• How long will it usually take to receive a quote response to an RFQ?
  Most RFQs will be answered within three to five business days. If the item requested is particularly complicated, the process may take longer.
  
  
• How long are quotes valid?
  Quotes are valid for no more than three months from the time they are submitted. After three months, a new quote must be made (unless otherwise stipulated).
  
  
• Is it necessary to submit a sample to Streamline?
  When making an RFQ, it is preferable to provide a sample or precise specifications for the product for which you would like a quote. Only in this way can all parties be assured that they are comparing apples to apples. This is especially true for items that have an advanced level of scientific or technological involvement or which are fairly unique or novel in nature.
  
  But even in cases where the items are fairly simple, there is always a wide range of quality variables that may be manipulated in the development/production process and as a result, having the “real McCoy” makes discussions with both suppliers and clients far simpler. Pictures of desired items, while useful, are rarely enough to provide insight into all aspects of production.
  
  
• Does order size matter?
  It is true that China has low prices on many items relative to the rest of the world. However, small order sizes do not tend to garner effective cost gains unless the items are of particularly high unit value. Suppliers are simply unwilling to go through the effort of producing a small quantity of items that have low unit value unless they can ensure a reasonable rate of return. This is particularly true if the RFQ contemplates creating something that is new and requires design and development costs. As a result, prices tend to be less competitive on such items. Additionally, the cost of shipment per unit is much higher on small quantities and may in some cases eat up any gains obtained through international sourcing.
  
  
• Is it possible to find an exact replica of what I want?
  Even when RFQs concern fairly common items, it is frequently difficult to find exactly the style or design a client wishes. The item in question may even already come from China. However, there are many factories and China is a big country. It will frequently be difficult to find an exact replica of an item or picture. The more insistent a client about the exactitude of the item requested, the less likely it will be to find and the more costly to reproduce. Though it is sometimes impossible to accept substitutes (e.g., repeat orders every year), in general a willingness to pursue similar items will provide cheaper, faster, and more results in most cases.
  
  
• Does Streamline provide supplier samples?
  It is Streamline’s pleasure to provide pre-existing samples if available. Costs applicable to their attainment and shipment are the responsibility of the client.
  
  
• Are there any mold fees or tooling costs attributable to the RFQ process?
  Any new items, or even new aspects of old items, will frequently require the development of a mold capable of delivering the desired shape or design. In some cases, molds may be relatively inexpensive, particularly when amortized across large or frequent orders. In other cases, they may be extremely costly. Requesting the design or development of something new will invariably necessitate additional tooling costs even if only for a sample. These are the responsibility of the client.
  
  
• Where are Streamline’s factories located?
  Once upon a time, the majority of factories involved in export were located in Southern China – Guangdong Province. This is primarily because of its proximity to Hong Kong, historically the launch point for any western ventures onto the China Mainland. Because of this synergy, suppliers in Southern China have enjoyed rapid and profitable development and modernization. However, the great volume of business they do and their experience working with western clients has allowed them to charge a premium for their services and to become selective in the orders they pursue. To obtain the greatest cost savings, it is often better to move further north and buy from factories that are “hungrier” and more in need of foreign business. This is where Streamline prefers to work.
  
  
• Will Streamline sign Confidentiality and Non-disclosure Agreements?
  Streamline clearly understands the importance of client’s proprietary information and his/her comfort and confidentiality are of primary concern to us, as well. Please rest assured that we frequently handle confidential and/or patented information and work exclusively on projects with our clients. In fact, we prefer to work this way.

Many RFQs require the transmission of confidential or otherwise sensitive data. Under most circumstances, Streamline has no problem signing Confidentiality Agreements and/or NDAs with clients.