Industrial fastener enquiries often arrive with only a size or a short description such as “M12 bolt” or “8mm screw”. That may be enough to start a conversation, but it is usually not enough to identify the exact item. A more complete RFQ helps the supplier match the requirement correctly and reduces back-and-forth before quotation.
1. Start with the fastener type
State whether you need a bolt, screw, stud, threaded rod, nut, washer, anchor, rivet or insert. If you are unsure, describe the application and share a photo or drawing where possible. For standard ranges, start from the Screws, Anchor Bolts, Rivets & Inserts, Solar Fasteners or Special Fasteners ranges.
2. Give the complete size and thread
For metric items, include diameter and length, for example M16 × 80 mm. For inch-series items, include the diameter, length and thread series where known. If pitch matters, include that too. For studs and threaded rods, clarify whether the stated length is overall length or a project-specific dimension.
3. State the material or grade
Different grades and materials can look similar but are not interchangeable. Where the project specifies a grade, standard or material, include it in the RFQ rather than asking for a generic “high tensile” or “stainless” item. If the requirement comes from a drawing or bill of materials, attach the relevant reference.
4. Include the finish or coating
Finish is part of the item description, not an afterthought. Zinc-plated, hot-dip galvanised, plain, stainless and other finishes are selected for different environments and project requirements. If the finish is not specified, say so rather than assuming one.
5. Clarify whether you need a single component or a set
A “bolt set” can mean different combinations. State the number of nuts and washers required per bolt and identify special washer types separately. For example: “1 bolt + 1 nut + 2 plain washers + 1 spring washer”. This avoids a quotation being prepared for only the main fastener when the project expects a complete set.
6. Give the required quantity
Quantity affects sourcing, packaging and quotation. Give the total quantity required for each line item instead of only the number of boxes or project lots unless the pack size is already fixed in the specification.
7. For special items, share the drawing or application
For unusual dimensions, fabricated items or project-specific fasteners, the drawing can be more useful than a long text description. Include the critical dimensions, material, finish and quantity. If the item is being matched to an existing sample, photos from more than one angle can also help identify the form.
A clear RFQ example
Better: M16 × 80 mm hex bolt, grade 8.8, HDG, with 1 nut and 2 plain washers, 500 sets.
Less useful: M16 bolt, 500 nos.
What information is most often missing?
The most common missing details are the complete size, grade or material, finish, exact set combination and quantity. Supplying those details at the start usually makes the enquiry easier to identify and quote.
For industrial fastener requirements in Chennai and supply enquiries across India, visit Bharat Industrial Fasteners or send your RFQ with the size, grade, finish and quantity.