Does RFQ automation get better prices?

Usually yes — because it makes it easy to get quotes from more suppliers and chase every one, you end up with more competitive offers, which is the main lever for a better price.

Guide

RFQ automation, explained

Q: What is RFQ automation?

RFQ automation is the use of software to send requests for quotation to suppliers, track and chase responses, and compare the quotes automatically — removing the manual emailing and spreadsheet work from the RFQ process.

Q: How do I automate the RFQ process?

Standardize your RFQ details, use a tool that sends to multiple suppliers at once, set automatic follow-ups, and collect responses into one comparison. An AI sourcing agent can do all of these steps for you.

RFQ automation means software sends your requests for quotation, tracks and chases the responses, and compares the quotes — so you stop living in your outbox and still get more offers to choose from.

The request for quotation is the heartbeat of procurement, and it's also where buyers lose the most time. Every RFQ is the same ritual: pick suppliers, write the request, send, wait, follow up, chase the stragglers, then drop everything into a spreadsheet to compare. Do that across dozens of line items a month and the admin swallows the job. RFQ automation removes the repetitive parts and keeps the judgment with you.

The manual RFQ process vs. an automated one

Step	Manual	Automated
Find suppliers	Search, bookmark, dig	Suggested from your spec
Write the RFQ	Rewrite each time	Generated per supplier
Send	One email at a time	All at once
Follow up	If you remember	Automatic, on schedule
Compare quotes	Copy into a sheet	Side-by-side, as they arrive

How to automate your RFQ process

Standardize the request. Decide the fields every RFQ needs — product/spec, quantity, delivery location and incoterm, target date, packaging, certifications. Consistent requests get consistent, comparable quotes. (Grab our free RFQ template to start.)
Send to several suppliers at once. One supplier is a price; several is a market. Automation makes reaching many as easy as reaching one.
Automate the follow-up. This is where most quotes are won or lost. Set reminders that chase non-responders until they reply.
Collect responses in one place. Pull price, lead time, MOQ and terms into a single view so comparison is instant.
Negotiate with leverage. With comparable offers side by side, counter-offers write themselves.

Why automation wins on price

The biggest driver of a better quote isn't haggling — it's competition. Anything that lets you get and chase more quotes, more easily, tends to lower what you pay. That's the whole point of automating the RFQ.

From RFQ automation to a sourcing agent

Classic RFQ software organizes the process but still expects you to run it. An AI sourcing agent goes a step further: it also finds the suppliers and decides who to chase and when, so the loop runs without you babysitting it. HireDov is built this way — you describe the need, Dov handles the RFQs end to end and brings back the comparison.

Automate your next RFQ with Dov

Tell Dov what you're buying. Dov sends the RFQs, chases every supplier, and compares the quotes for you.

Start free — no card needed

Frequently asked questions

What is RFQ automation?

Using software to send RFQs to suppliers, track and chase responses, and compare quotes automatically — removing manual emailing and spreadsheet work.

How do I automate the RFQ process?

Standardize your RFQ fields, send to multiple suppliers at once, set automatic follow-ups, and collect responses into one comparison. An AI sourcing agent can run all of it for you.

Does RFQ automation really get better prices?

Usually — it makes getting and chasing more quotes effortless, and more competitive offers is the main lever for a lower price.