Apparel RFQ vs Tech Pack: What Each Document Does
Learn the difference between an apparel RFQ and a tech pack, and see how the two documents work together during supplier evaluation.
An apparel RFQ and a tech pack answer different questions. The RFQ frames the commercial request: what the buyer wants priced, in what quantity, for which market and under which delivery assumptions. The tech pack describes the product itself.
What an RFQ should communicate
Include the style reference, estimated quantities, color and size breakdown, destination, desired trade term, target decision date and quotation scope. Say whether labels, hangtags, packaging, testing or special trims are included.
What a tech pack should control
A tech pack records flats, points of measurement, construction, bill of materials, fabric direction, colorways, artwork, labels, tolerances and packing notes. Identify the revision that controls the current sample.
How to start when the pack is incomplete
Send the strongest references, intended use, known measurements, fabric preference, size range, quantity estimate and open decisions. Ask the supplier to return assumptions and missing questions instead of guessing silently.
Practical application
A common mistake to avoid
Do not use a price request as a substitute for a product specification, or treat a reference image as a complete tech pack.
What to record
Keep the RFQ and tech pack under the same style number and revision, with a change log showing what controls the current sample.
How to use this in a supplier conversation
Ask the supplier which assumptions were used for the quote and which missing tech-pack points could change cost, sample work or timing.
Buyer checklist
- RFQ with quantity and delivery context
- Tech pack revision and style number
- Material, trim and artwork direction
- Fixed decisions versus open questions
- Requested quotation inclusions
MANRALIN perspective
MANRALIN can review a technical pack or a reference-led brief. The final quotation depends on confirmed fabric, colors, trims, customization, packaging, quantity and order details.