Buyers on Alibaba.com can communicate with sellers in one of three ways; inquiries, instant messages, or RFQs.

This video focuses on RFQs.

A Request for Quotation (RFQ) is a sourcing request that a buyer submits to Alibaba.com, rather than to an individual seller. Buyers have the option to make a detailed description of what they’re looking for and post it on the “RFQ Markets”, rather than searching and contacting sellers individually.

Big buyers with large order needs, and buyers looking for customizable products, are especially likely to use this system. Once they have posted their RFQ, they simply have to wait for sellers to get in touch with them with quotes.