What is typically included in an RFQ besides item quantities?

An RFQ, or Request for Quotation, is a document that a buyer sends to potential suppliers to request pricing and terms for specific goods or services. It typically includes several key components in addition to item quantities. The correct answer highlights that shipping costs and discounts for large orders are integral in an RFQ, as they provide suppliers with essential information to calculate the total cost of the goods or services being offered.

Including shipping costs in an RFQ allows the buyer to understand the overall expense involved in procuring the items, ensuring that financial planning reflects both the product cost and the logistics associated with delivery. Furthermore, offering discounts for large orders can incentivize suppliers to provide better pricing based on the volume requested, ultimately benefiting the buyer with cost savings.

Other options, while relevant in the procurement process, might not be standard inclusions in an RFQ. A summary of past purchases may provide context for the buyer’s needs but doesn't typically influence the price quoting process directly. Vendor ratings and feedback are more relevant for supplier selection rather than for the RFQ itself. Information about competing bids is usually not shared in an RFQ context, as it pertains to maintaining confidentiality and competitiveness in supplier negotiations. Thus, shipping costs and volume discounts are fundamental elements that influence a