Customer Price Inquiry is the first step in the foreign trade business process, referring to the act of a potential buyer proactively asking a supplier about product prices and related transaction terms. Its content usually includes product specifications, quantity, delivery time, payment method, etc., and sometimes also involves requirements for samples, packaging, and certification. Usage scenarios are mostly trade shows, B2B platforms, emails, or instant messaging tools. Precautions: suppliers need to respond promptly and professionally, avoid directly quoting the lowest price, and should understand the customer's background and real needs; at the same time, distinguish a price inquiry from an 'inquiry'—the latter has a broader scope and may include non-price information, while a customer price inquiry specifically refers to a price inquiry. The difference from a 'quotation' is that a price inquiry is initiated by the buyer, while a quotation is the seller's response. Effectively handling customer price inquiries can improve conversion rates, and one must never be perfunctory or disclose the bottom price.
📝 Examples
1. We received a price inquiry from an American customer requesting the FOB price and delivery time for 5,000 Bluetooth earphones. (Note: The customer proactively asks about price and transaction terms, which is a typical customer price inquiry.)
2. For a new customer's price inquiry, we suggest first asking about their target market and purchase volume, then giving a tiered quotation. (Note: This emphasizes the strategy when handling price inquiries, avoiding blind quoting.)
💡 Foreign Trade Tips
Foreign trade terms are the foundation of international business communication
Trade practices may vary slightly by country; pay attention when using them
When using terms in contracts, specify the applicable version (e.g., Incoterms 2020)
For unfamiliar terms, use GlobalSync's multilingual email helper to confirm with your partner