You do not need every detail settled before starting a conversation. You do need to distinguish what you have chosen, what you are considering and what you want help with. This guide provides a practical structure for a first packaging enquiry and a more precise follow-up after samples.
Describe the project and the starting point
State the application and whether the project is a new launch, a range extension or a packaging change. Include a model reference or link for each shortlisted pack. If you do not have a shortlist, describe the format, intended capacity and the experience you want the pack to provide.
Explain what is fixed and what is flexible. For example, a brand may have selected a capacity while remaining open to the bottle shape or decoration. Keep unresolved dimensions, materials and closure details marked as questions. This helps the supplier respond with useful options rather than assuming the concept is fully approved.
Make quantities and scope explicit
| Include in the brief | Why it helps the discussion |
|---|---|
| Quantity per item or variant | Distinguishes one shared order from separate designs. |
| Capacity and component references | Identifies the proposed configuration to quote. |
| Colour and artwork direction | Clarifies whether the enquiry includes decoration. |
| Sample purpose | Separates visual review from technical evaluation. |
| Destination and timing | Makes delivery and milestone questions visible. |
| Open technical questions | Shows which documents or tests still need review. |
Separate an initial order estimate from a possible future reorder; neither should be presented as a committed forecast unless it is one. Where helpful, ask the supplier to quote clearly labelled quantity alternatives against the same specification.
When requesting a price, ask what it includes and excludes. Components, decoration, tooling, sample work, testing, packing and delivery should be identifiable in the proposed scope. Agree how long the quotation is valid and which changes would require a revised quotation.
Ask for the right kind of sample
Say whether you need to see the shape and handling, review a decorated appearance, assess component fit or conduct technical evaluation with the formula. One sample may not answer every question. Ask the supplier to identify the supplied sample configuration and any differences from the proposed production pack.
Confirm sample availability, charges and expected timing before arranging the next step. For formula or filling checks, agree the responsibilities, sample requirements and information-sharing arrangements with the relevant technical team. Record which technical information will be exchanged at each review stage.
Keep the review and next decision together
Record observations against the sample reference: what you reviewed, which direction you prefer and what remains unresolved. If you request a change, identify the component or artwork version affected. Keep the approved direction separate from alternatives still being explored.
Before moving towards production, request confirmation of the specification, approval status, commercial scope and schedule. This checklist organises the conversation; it does not replace a product-specific technical review. You can start the RFQ as a guest with a partial brief and clearly identified questions.
TAKE THIS INTO YOUR NEXT CONVERSATION
Send what you know, label what is open and make the next decision easy to identify.
FROM READING TO YOUR BRIEF
What would you
like to discuss?
Select the questions you want to bring into your enquiry. You can edit the brief before reviewing it.
Choose specific questions, or continue with the full discussion checklist.
Prepare my guest RFQ ↗No account needed. Your existing product shortlist stays with your enquiry.
