This guide helps organize an RFQ. Final dimensions, tooling compatibility, can construction, printing and production timing are confirmed only after project review.
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Understanding the request for quotation process
A request for quotation (RFQ) sets out the packaging requirements you would like a supplier to assess and price. Include the details already known and identify anything still undecided, so the sales team can understand the project and discuss the next steps. On the Ferostar website, the quotation submission process is divided into two clear stages: Project Basics followed by Contact & Files.
You do not need a finished technical specification to start a conversation. If the terminology is unfamiliar or the design is still taking shape, contact the sales team with what you know. The checklist below is there to help organise the discussion.
Stage 1: project basics and dimension details
Start by telling us what you want to pack and your estimated annual quantity. Two fields are mandatory: Primary Application and Estimated Annual Quantity. Indicating the primary application helps the supplier evaluate whether the container serves as decorative outer packaging or requires specific considerations for direct contact. The Target Dimensions fields—Length / Diameter (mm), Width (mm), and Height (mm)—are optional on the form. When providing these figures, do not assume the form defaults to internal or external measurements. Instead, explicitly state whether your dimensions reflect internal usable clearance or external packaging boundaries in the Project Description & Specific Requirements field. In this section, buyers should also record their initial order quantity, reference codes for any catalogue tins under consideration, preferred shape (such as round, square, rectangular, or irregular), preferred lid styles (such as slip, hinged, slide, screw, or flip lids), and any required inserts (such as plastic, paper, or EVA lining).
Stage 2: contact information and file attachments
The second stage captures buyer details and supporting technical documents. Required contact fields include first and last name, work email address, company name, and country or region. Providing an optional phone or WhatsApp number allows the sales team to clarify brief points quickly. Describe printing and accessory requirements in the project description. Ferostar's options include CMYK and spot-colour printing, gloss or matte varnish, spot UV, metallic inks, embossing and relief. Choose the options relevant to your design, or include a reference image if you are unsure how to describe the intended appearance. Mark undecided features as 'to be confirmed'.
Preparing reference files
Supporting artwork and dimensional sketches provide valuable context for quotation. The Ferostar portal accepts files in PDF, JPG, JPEG, PNG, WebP, DOCX, and XLSX formats. Uploads are subject to technical limitations:
- Maximum file size: 10 MB per individual file
- File quantity: Up to 5 files per enquiry submission
- Total submission volume: Maximum 50 MB across all files combined
RFQ attachments are stored privately and are accessible only to authorised personnel. Keep your own copy of the files you submit. If you need to send another format or a larger file, contact the sales team to arrange a suitable transfer method. Give files clear names and version labels, and identify any reference that has been superseded. A concept image can explain the intended appearance, while a labelled sketch can show the dimensions that need assessment; distinguish both from an approved production drawing.
Desired schedules and delivery destinations
Add your desired arrival date and destination to the project description. State whether the date relates to arrival at your premises or another delivery point. These details are planning information for project assessment, rather than a confirmed delivery commitment. Ask the sales team to confirm the schedule and any conditions that still need to be resolved.
Practical RFQ preparation checklist
Use the list below as a reminder of useful details, rather than a list of decisions you must make before speaking to us. The online form still requires its marked contact and project fields; optional technical details can be discussed later:
- Primary application identified, noting wrapped goods or direct product contact
- Estimated annual volume and target initial order quantity
- Target dimensions in millimetres, explicitly labelled as internal or external
- Confirmation of whether container height includes the lid
- Preferred container shape, lid style, and insert material
- Planned surface finishes, noting undetermined elements as 'to be confirmed'
- Primary contact information, including corporate email and company name
- Supporting reference files named clearly and prepared within upload size limits
- Target destination and desired timeline noted for planning review
Complete fictional RFQ submission example
This fictional example shows how known details and undecided items can be included together. It is a reference, not a template you need to complete in full:
- Contact Name: Alex Example
- Company Name: Example Tea Brand (fictional)
- Work Email: alex@example.com
- Country / Region: United Kingdom
- Optional Telephone / WhatsApp: [not supplied]
- Primary Application: Dry food / beverage packaging (tea already in sealed inner pouches)
- Initial Order Quantity: 5,000 units (initial order requirement)
- Estimated Annual Quantity: 20,000 units
- Target Dimensions: Rectangular format, target size [to be confirmed after pouch measurements, basis to be confirmed with supplier]
- Lid Style Preference: Slip lid to assess
- Internal Insert: Paper insert to assess
- Surface Finishes: CMYK four-colour printing with matte finish to assess
- Attached Files: concept.pdf, pouch-dimensions.pdf (fictional planned references)
- Project Description & Specific Requirements: "Tea is packaged in sealed inner pouches with no direct food contact with the metal container. Target size is rectangular format [to be confirmed after pouch measurements]; please evaluate closest existing tooling or new tooling. Desired delivery destination: Southampton, United Kingdom. Requested target arrival: [requested date to be supplied], subject to formal supplier schedule confirmation."
Please note that the numbers shown above are fictional planning quantities rather than a universal minimum order quantity (MOQ) or an agreed commercial order.
If you are ready to use the form, share your available project details here. Request a Quote
If you are unsure about the technical terms and simply want to create custom tin packaging, you can contact our sales team directly. Tell us what you would like to pack and share a photo or reference if you have one. We can discuss the details together.
