comparison
ITT vs RFP vs RFQ
5 min readBy Helen MarshReviewed by David OkonjoPublished 2026-03-04Last reviewed 2026-07-02
In short
An ITT asks for a priced, compliant offer against a defined requirement. An RFP asks suppliers to propose a solution as well as a price. An RFQ asks only for pricing on a clearly specified, usually low-value purchase.
The practical difference
The three documents sit on a spectrum of how much of the thinking the buyer has already done. An RFQ means the buyer knows exactly what it wants. An ITT means the requirement is fixed but delivery quality is still being judged. An RFP means the buyer is buying your approach.
- RFQ: price-led, minimal narrative, fastest turnaround
- ITT: fixed specification, scored quality responses, formal compliance rules
- RFP: solution-led, more freedom in structure, heavier on approach and innovation
How your response should change
For an RFQ, get the arithmetic right and submit on time. For an ITT, write to the scoring criteria and prove compliance. For an RFP, lead with the recommendation and justify why your approach beats the obvious alternatives.
Frequently asked questions
Which is most common in UK public procurement?
ITT is the dominant term for above-threshold competitive procurements; RFQ is common for lower-value quotes and framework mini-competitions.
Sources