Free Shipping Quote Request Form Template

Shipping Quote Request Form Examples

Use these previews for request structure and shipment-detail ideas. Start with the layout that best fits the load, then build the request you will send to carriers.

Keep the shipment details consistent so each carrier is pricing the same work.

Popular Shipping Request Layouts

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  Sample Shipping Quote Request Form Template

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  Free Shipping Quote Request Form Template

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  Printable Shipping Quote Request Form Template

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More Shipping Request Layouts

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  Blank Shipping Quote Request Form Template

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  Simple Shipping Quote Request Form Template

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• 

  Downloadable Shipping Quote Request Form Template

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• 

  Editable Shipping Quote Request Form Template

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• 

  Fillable Shipping Quote Request Form Template

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• 

  Professional Shipping Quote Request Form Template

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What Is a Shipping Request for Quote?

A shipping request for quote, or shipping RFQ, is a request you send to carriers or transportation providers so they can price a shipment for your business.

It is different from a freight quote. A freight quote is the price you send to your customer after you know what transportation service you are offering.

Give Every Carrier the Same Shipment Details

A consistent request makes carrier rates easier to compare. State the shipment and service clearly before anyone prices it.

• Keep the origin and destination in one request
• Use the same freight details for each carrier
• State the service and equipment you need
• Set a clear deadline for rate responses
• Move to a customer freight quote when rates are ready

How to Create a Shipping Request for Quote

Write the request so a carrier can price it without guessing. Start with where the shipment is moving. Then add the freight, service, and response details.

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1. Add Your Business: Enter your business name and the contact details carriers should use for the request.
2. Add the Carrier: Add the carrier or transportation provider you are asking for a rate. Reuse the same request details when you contact another carrier.
3. Add the RFQ Number and Dates: Use a reference number and request date. Add the date by which you want the carrier to respond.
4. Add the Origin and Destination: Enter the pickup and delivery locations. Include timing windows when they matter to the requested service.
5. Describe the Shipment: Add the freight details the carrier needs to price the load. Include weight and dimensions when relevant. Add quantity or class when they affect the rate.
6. State the Requested Service: Describe the service level, equipment, and special handling you need. Ask the carrier to show any extra charges that could apply.
7. Review and Send the Request: Check the route and shipment details. Send the same basis to each carrier so the returned rates are easier to compare.

Before you send: Check the route and shipment details. Make sure the requested service is clear. Keep the response deadline easy to find.

What to Include in a Shipping Request for Quote

A carrier should be able to price the shipment from the request itself. Include the details that affect the rate and leave the pricing fields for the carrier response.

Compare Rates, Surcharges, and Transit Time

Tell carriers which parts of the rate to return separately. That makes the responses easier to compare without guessing what each price includes.

• Base rate: Ask for the main transportation charge for the shipment in the request.
• Surcharges: Ask carriers to show fuel or other surcharges separately when they apply.
• Accessorial charges: Ask carriers to price added handling or delivery needs instead of leaving them implied.
• Transit and validity: Ask how long the rate is valid and how long the shipment is expected to take.

Shipment Details Changed While You Are Collecting Rates?

Update the request before you compare responses. Revise the route or freight when they change. Update timing or equipment when needed, then resend the same details to the carriers you are considering.

When you choose a carrier, use its rate to build the separate freight quote you send your customer.

Shipping Request for Quote, Freight Quote, or Invoice?

Send the shipping request to carriers before you set the customer price. The customer freight quote and invoice come later.

If your process calls for one, use a purchase order when your business places an order with a carrier or vendor.

Related Logistics Quote Templates

Use one of these customer quote templates when you are ready to set the price for the shipment or transportation service.

• Freight Quote Template
• Transportation Quote Template
• Moving Company Quote Template
• All Logistics Quote Templates
• Purchase Order Template
• Free Quote Template

Other Quote Template File Formats

Need a standard quote file for customer pricing? Choose a quote format here, then keep the carrier RFQ separate.

• Word Quote Template
• Google Docs Quote Template
• Excel Quote Template
• Google Sheets Quote Template
• All Quote Formats

Shipping Quote Request Form FAQs

• What is a shipping request for quote?

  A shipping request for quote is a request you send to carriers or transportation providers so they can price a shipment for your business. It is also commonly called a shipping RFQ.

• What should I include in a shipping quote request form?

  Include your business details and the route. Add the shipment information carriers need to price the load. State the requested service and any important handling needs. Give the carrier a clear response deadline.

• What shipment details do carriers need for a quote?

  Give carriers the shipment details that affect the rate. Include the measurements or classification they need. Add timing and equipment details when they matter. Include special handling only when it changes the service.

• Should I send the same RFQ to multiple carriers?

  Yes, when you are comparing rates. Keep the shipment and service requirements the same so each carrier is pricing the same request. Change only the carrier details and any carrier-specific question.

• What charges should I ask carriers to show separately?

  Ask for the base transportation rate and any surcharges or accessorial charges you need to compare. Also ask how long the rate is valid and how long the shipment should take.

• What is the difference between a shipping RFQ and a freight quote?

  A shipping RFQ is sent to carriers to collect rates for your business. A freight quote is sent to your customer when you are offering the transportation service and setting the customer price.

• What should I do if the shipment changes after I sent the RFQ?

  Update the request and send the revised shipment details to the carriers you are still considering. Comparing rates built on different shipment assumptions can be misleading.

• Can I turn a shipping request for quote into an invoice?

  No. The request only asks carriers for rates. Use the chosen rate to build a separate freight quote for your customer in Docelf. After the customer accepts that quote, turn it into an invoice.

• Can I use the same request as a starting point for a customer freight quote?

  Yes. Reuse the shipment details and chosen carrier rate, but create a separate freight quote for the customer. That quote should show the service and price you are offering. Do not send the carrier request as the customer quote.

Ready to Create the Customer Freight Quote?

Use the selected carrier rate to set the customer price. Create a clear freight quote in Docelf when the offer is ready.

• Add the customer and shipment details
• Use the selected carrier rate to set your price
• Email the quote or download a PDF

Create Freight Quote