Describe the project, not just the style
Start with the project type, destination and product lines. A hotel room package, a dealer range and a single residence need different information. Identify the number of rooms or repeated units and explain whether each room shares the same design.
Style references help communicate the intended appearance. Keep them separate from the dimensions and specifications that suppliers need to price the work.
Use one document revision
Attach a room schedule and drawings with an identifiable revision. Mark unverified measurements clearly. If the design is still developing, ask for a preliminary proposal and request a list of assumptions and missing information.
| Input | Useful detail | If not decided |
|---|---|---|
| Quantity | Units by room or cabinet type | Provide a provisional quantity and label it |
| Drawings | Revision, dimensions, units and interfaces | List the drawings still to follow |
| Materials | Box, door, shelf and decorative surfaces | Ask for separately identified options |
| Hardware | Selected references and required functions | Ask for named proposed alternatives |
| Delivery scope | Packaging, labels, batches and destination | Ask the supplier to state inclusions and exclusions |
Separate materials from finishes
“Oak”, “white” or “matte” can describe an appearance without specifying the complete cabinet. Record the box, fronts and visible panels separately, then identify the surface finish and sample reference. The board comparison guide and PET and lacquer guide help structure these questions.
Make the scope comparable
- Identify who supplies countertops, sinks, appliances and decorative panels.
- Ask which hardware, accessories and spare parts are included.
- State whether packaging and room labels need a particular format.
- Clarify the requested transport and installation scope.
- Request a visible list of exclusions and proposed substitutions.
Example: a preliminary enquiry
Illustrative example — not a customer project: “We are planning apartment kitchens. Please quote against layout revision B. Quantities are provisional. Provide separate options for the cabinet box, keep the door appearance and hardware functions consistent, and identify all assumptions. Countertops and appliances are outside this request.”
This makes uncertainty visible without pretending that a moodboard is a final specification. Replace the example with your actual information before sharing it.
Review the reply before comparing totals
Check that each proposal refers to the same documents and quantity basis. Put differences in a separate list: changed materials, omitted panels, alternative hardware, packaging or delivery scope. A lower total may reflect a different scope rather than a lower price for the same product.
The checklist is an enquiry aid, not a quotation, contract interpretation or guarantee of price or lead time. Confirm the final commercial and technical documents with the project parties.
Your custom cabinet rfq checklist worksheet
Use these prompts to prepare your information. Download the text template, print this page, or complete the message below. Attach drawings in your email app or WhatsApp.
Questions buyers ask
Can I request a quote without complete drawings?
You can prepare a preliminary enquiry. Mark missing or provisional information and ask the supplier to state assumptions and the information needed for a firm proposal.
Do I need to choose every material first?
No. Ask for clearly identified options, keeping the other requirements consistent so the proposals remain comparable.
Does preparing the message submit my project?
No. Review the message, then send it from your email application or WhatsApp. Attach drawings in that application.
About this worksheet
Prepared by Aurora Atelier for gathering enquiry information. It is an editorial planning aid, not a quotation or a technical standard. Reviewed 8 September 2026.
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