HomeBlogContactSupport
Currency
Language
Getting Started

Understanding Quotes

Sales Team
5 min read
Last updated: 1/22/2025
quotes
pricing
rfq
purchasing

Understanding Quotes at Source Parts

Quotes are an essential part of the electronics procurement process, especially for large orders, custom requirements, or complex projects. This guide explains how our quote system works and how to get the best pricing for your needs.

What is a Quote?

A quote is a formal price offer for specific components with defined terms including:

  • Pricing: Exact unit and extended pricing
  • Availability: Stock status and lead times
  • Terms: Payment terms, validity period, and conditions
  • Specifications: Part numbers, quantities, and special requirements

๐Ÿ’ก Pro Tip

Request quotes for orders over $1,000 or quantities above standard pricing breaks to potentially receive better pricing than catalog rates.

When to Request a Quote

๐ŸŽฏ Large Volume Orders

  • Orders exceeding $5,000 in value
  • Quantities beyond standard pricing breaks
  • Production volumes requiring special terms
  • Recurring orders with predictable schedules

๐Ÿ“‹ Custom Requirements

  • Special packaging or labeling needs
  • Kitting and assembly services
  • Drop-shipping to multiple locations
  • Scheduled delivery requirements

๐Ÿ” Hard-to-Find Parts

  • Obsolete or discontinued components
  • Long lead time items requiring expediting
  • Components not listed in our catalog
  • Specialized or industrial-grade parts

๐Ÿค Partnership Opportunities

  • Evaluating Source Parts as a new supplier
  • Comparing competitive pricing
  • Establishing long-term supply agreements
  • Volume commitment discussions

Types of Quotes

๐Ÿ“Š Standard Pricing Quote

  • Purpose: Regular catalog items with standard pricing
  • Response Time: Within 2-4 hours during business hours
  • Validity: 30 days from quote date
  • Terms: Standard payment and shipping terms apply

๐Ÿ’ฐ Volume Pricing Quote

  • Purpose: Large quantity orders with special pricing
  • Response Time: Within 24 hours
  • Validity: 30-90 days depending on market conditions
  • Terms: Custom pricing with volume commitments

๐Ÿ”ง Engineering Quote

  • Purpose: Custom solutions, kitting, or special services
  • Response Time: 2-5 business days
  • Validity: 60 days with detailed specifications
  • Terms: Includes engineering time and custom services

โšก Expedite Quote

  • Purpose: Rush orders requiring expedited delivery
  • Response Time: Within 1-2 hours
  • Validity: 48-72 hours due to urgency
  • Terms: Includes expedite fees and premium pricing

How to Request a Quote

Method 1: Online Quote Request

  1. Navigate to "Request Quote" in the main menu
  2. Upload your BOM or enter part details manually
  3. Specify quantities and delivery requirements
  4. Add any special requirements or notes
  5. Submit the request with your contact information

Method 2: Email Quote Request

  • Send BOM to: quotes@source.parts
  • Include: Part numbers, quantities, target pricing, timeline
  • Specify: Delivery location, special requirements
  • Attach: Any relevant drawings or specifications

Method 3: Account Manager

  • Contact your dedicated account manager directly
  • Available for high-volume and strategic accounts
  • Personalized service and pricing discussions
  • Long-term partnership development

Quote Response Details

Our comprehensive quotes include:

๐Ÿ“‹ Component Information

  • Manufacturer: Original component manufacturer
  • Part Number: Exact manufacturer part number
  • Description: Detailed component description
  • Packaging: Package type and quantity per package

๐Ÿ’ต Pricing Details

  • Unit Price: Price per individual component
  • Extended Price: Total price for requested quantity
  • Price Breaks: Volume pricing tiers if applicable
  • Currency: All pricing in USD unless specified

๐Ÿ“… Availability Information

  • Stock Status: Current inventory levels
  • Lead Time: Expected delivery timeframe
  • Allocation: Quantity reserved for this quote
  • Alternatives: Suggested substitute parts if needed

๐Ÿ“œ Terms and Conditions

  • Quote Validity: Expiration date for pricing
  • Payment Terms: Payment method and timing requirements
  • Shipping Terms: Incoterms and delivery conditions
  • Minimum Order: Any minimum quantity requirements

๐Ÿ“Š Understanding Price Breaks

Price breaks show volume discounts available:

  • โ€ข 1-99 pieces: Standard pricing
  • โ€ข 100-499 pieces: 5-10% discount
  • โ€ข 500+ pieces: 10-15% discount
  • โ€ข Custom volumes: Contact for special pricing

Quote Management

๐Ÿ“ฑ Online Quote Portal

  • View All Quotes: Access all current and historical quotes
  • Compare Options: Side-by-side comparison of alternatives
  • Track Status: Real-time updates on quote preparation
  • Convert to Order: One-click ordering from accepted quotes

๐Ÿ”„ Quote Modifications

  • Quantity Changes: Request revised pricing for different quantities
  • Delivery Dates: Adjust target delivery schedules
  • Specifications: Modify technical requirements
  • Terms: Negotiate payment and delivery terms

โฐ Quote Expiration

  • Standard Validity: Most quotes valid for 30 days
  • Market Volatility: Shorter validity for volatile components
  • Renewal Process: Request updated pricing after expiration
  • Price Protection: Honored pricing during validity period

Converting Quotes to Orders

โœ… Accept Quote

  1. Review all quote details carefully
  2. Confirm quantities and specifications
  3. Accept terms and conditions
  4. Provide purchase order number if required
  5. Submit order through quote portal or email confirmation

๐Ÿ“‹ Required Information

  • Billing Address: Complete billing information
  • Shipping Address: Delivery location details
  • Contact Information: Primary contact for order updates
  • Special Instructions: Any delivery or handling requirements

Best Practices for Getting Great Quotes

๐Ÿ“ Provide Complete Information

  • Include exact manufacturer part numbers
  • Specify required quantities clearly
  • Indicate target delivery dates
  • Mention any special requirements upfront

๐ŸŽฏ Be Realistic About Requirements

  • Set achievable delivery dates
  • Consider market conditions for pricing expectations
  • Understand minimum order quantities
  • Plan for potential lead time variations

๐Ÿค Build Relationships

  • Work with dedicated account managers
  • Provide feedback on quote quality and competitiveness
  • Share forecasts for better planning and pricing
  • Communicate changes or cancellations promptly

๐Ÿš€ Ready to Get Your Quote?

Start your quote request today and experience our competitive pricing and exceptional service:

Questions About Quotes?

Our team is ready to help:

Was this article helpful?

Still need help?

Our support team is here to assist you