A request for quotation (RFQ) that says "send price for 3.00-18" usually gets a quote. It rarely gets the right one.
The supplier has to guess the pattern, whether you want tube-type or tubeless, how many pieces you need and whether you want tubes too. Each guess can make the price you compare wrong. You find that out later, at the proforma invoice stage or when the container arrives.
This is the checklist we would like every first-time buyer to use. It works with any supplier. Where it mentions our terms, those are the terms of TIREO LLC, a US company owned by Shawn and the overseas sales company for products made by Qingdao Zhengya Rubber Industrial Co., Ltd. in Qingdao, China.
1. One line per size and pattern
Write each tyre as its own line. Copy the size exactly as it appears on the sidewall or in the catalogue, for example 3.00-18 or 90/90-18. Do not round it to "3.00 or similar".
Then add the pattern. If you know the supplier's pattern code, use it. If you are matching a tyre you already sell, attach a clear photo of the tread and the sidewall.
Why it matters: minimum orders and prices are set per size and pattern. For motorcycle tyres our MOQ is 300 pieces per size and pattern. Two patterns in the same size are two lines, and each needs its own 300 pieces.
2. Tube-type or tubeless
Say TT (tube-type) or TL (tubeless) on every line. Many sizes are made in both versions, and they are different tyres. If you don't know which one your customers fit, say so. It is better to ask than to receive the wrong version.
3. Quantity per line
Give the quantity you actually plan to order for each line, not a range like "500–5,000". Some suppliers price differently by quantity, so a range makes it hard for them to give one price you can compare.
If you are still deciding, give two separate scenarios (for example, a first order and a repeat order) and ask for a price on each.
4. Inner tubes, if the tyres are tube-type
If you order tube-type tyres, you will probably order tubes as well. For each tube line, give:
- Size, matching the tyre size.
- Material: natural rubber or butyl. Say which one; they are priced and counted separately.
- Valve: the valve type you need, for example TR4. Our catalogue lists the valve that goes with each tube size.
- Quantity: our MOQ for motorcycle inner tubes is 2,000 pieces per size and material.
5. Packing and markings
Say how you want the goods packed and what must be printed on them. Our standard is: "Tyres are wrapped one by one and stacked by hand in the container. Tubes are packed in bags or cartons."
If you need your own labels, cartons or brand on the tyre, put it in the RFQ. It changes the quote.
6. Destination and what the price should include
Name the destination port and country, even if you will book freight yourself. Then be clear about what you are asking the supplier to price.
Our prices are ex-factory or at Qingdao port. Sea freight changes with every sailing, so it is confirmed separately for each shipment. A quote that includes freight is only valid for the sailing it was calculated for.
7. Documents your market needs
List the documents your customs broker or market asks for. Ask about them before you order, not after the goods are packed. We provide certificate copies and a certificate of origin on request.
8. Samples
If you want samples first, say which lines. Sample cost depends on the item. With us, the sample cost can be deducted from the bulk order, and the buyer pays the courier charges.
An example RFQ
Example only. The sizes, patterns and quantities are placeholders.
| Line | Item | Size | Pattern | TT/TL | Material / valve | Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tyre | 3.00-18 | (code or photo) | TT | — | 300 |
| 2 | Tyre | 2.75-17 | (code or photo) | TT | — | 300 |
| 3 | Inner tube | 3.00-18 | — | — | Butyl, TR4 | 2,000 |
Below the table, add:
- Destination: (port, country)
- Packing / labels: (standard or your requirements)
- Documents: (what your market requires)
- Samples: (yes or no, and which lines)
What to check when the quote comes back
- Every line is priced. If a line is missing, ask why. The size may not be available in that pattern.
- The price basis is stated (for us, ex-factory or Qingdao port), and freight is shown separately.
- The validity date. Our quotations are valid for 15 days.
- Lead time. Ours is 20–30 days. Ask the supplier to state when the count starts.
- Payment terms. Ours are 30% deposit and the balance before shipment.
- How the order is confirmed. With us, an order is confirmed when you sign and return our proforma invoice (PI) and we receive the 30% deposit. Both are needed.
If you are new to importing, our step-by-step guide to importing motorcycle tires from China covers the stages before and after the RFQ.
FAQ
What is the minimum order for motorcycle tires?
300 pieces per size and pattern. Different patterns in the same size do not add up to the minimum.
Can I put tires and tubes in one RFQ?
Yes. List them as separate lines. Tubes have their own minimum of 2,000 pieces per size and material.
Do you quote CIF?
No. Our prices are ex-factory or at Qingdao port. Sea freight is confirmed separately for each shipment because it changes with every sailing.
How long is a quotation valid?
15 days from the quotation.
When is my order confirmed?
When you sign and return our proforma invoice and we receive the 30% deposit.
Send your RFQ
Send your lines on our contact page or browse our products first. We usually reply within one working day (GMT+8).