IFB, RFP, and RFQ: What Contractors Need to Know
The label on a solicitation tells you something about how the buyer expects vendors to respond, but terminology varies by jurisdiction. Always rely on the definitions and evaluation method in the actual documents.
Invitation for Bids (IFB)
An IFB commonly uses sealed bidding for a clearly defined requirement. Price and other price-related factors usually dominate among responsive bids from responsible bidders. Federal sealed-bidding rules describe public opening and award as core elements.
- Follow forms and bid-security instructions exactly
- Avoid qualifications or exceptions the IFB does not permit
- Confirm how alternates and unit prices must be entered
Request for Proposals (RFP)
An RFP generally allows the buyer to evaluate technical approach, experience, staffing, schedule, and price under stated criteria. The highest-ranked or best-value proposal may not be the lowest-priced.
- Mirror the evaluation criteria in your response
- Use specific, verifiable examples
- Respect page limits and required attachments
Request for Quotes or Qualifications (RFQ)
RFQ can mean a request for price quotations or a request for qualifications, depending on the buyer and context. Read the solicitation carefully: one may seek a simplified price response, while another shortlists firms based on experience before negotiating scope and price.
Other labels you may encounter
- RFI: request for information, often market research rather than a bid
- SOQ: statement of qualifications
- ITB: invitation to bid
- RFSQ or prequalification: screening before later competition
Official sources and further reading
- FAR 6.401: sealed bids and competitive proposals ↗
- FAR Part 14: sealed bidding ↗
- FAR Part 15: contracting by negotiation ↗
This overview is educational and is not legal advice; it cannot determine whether a law, certification, wage rule, or solicitation requirement applies to your business. Rules differ across federal, state, and local procurement and can change. Verify the current official solicitation and consult the issuing agency or a qualified adviser when needed.
Find bids across New England
Browse Live Bids to see the current public inventory without an account, or start from the New England government bids hub and pick a state: