| Inquiry
Tips
Tell the supplier
． Who you are
． How you know the supplier
． What you want
Opening
．Tell them who you are.
．How do you know them? (from ad, their employees, or …?)
Content
．Asking for － catalogues, price lists , etc.
． Remember to give your postal address. It is also helpful
to point out briefly any particular items you are interested
in.
e.g. Please send me an up-to-date price list for your building
materials.
Details
You should be specific and state exactly what you want.
e.g. I
am replying to your advertisement in the June edition of “Tailor
and Cutter.” I would like to know more about the steam presses
which you are offering at cost price.
Samples,
patterns, and demonstrations:
If it is practical, ask to see an example of the article you
want to buy.
e.g. Before selling toys we prefer to
test them for safety. Could you therefore send us at least
two examples of the “Sprite” range?
Goods on approval, or on sale or return: Two ways
of doing this are by getting goods on approval or on a sale
or return basis.
e.g. The leaflet advertising your latest
hobby magazines interested us, and we would like to stock
a selection of them. However, we would only consider placing
an order if it was on the usual basis of sale or return. If
this is acceptable, we will send you a firm order.
Estimate or Tender
． Definition of estimate
(1)A tentative evaluation or rough calculation, as of worth,
quantity, or size.
(2)A statement of the approximate cost of work to be done,
such as a building project or car repairs.
． Definition of tender
A formal offer, as:
(1) Law. An offer of money or service in payment of an obligation.
(2) A written offer to contract goods or services at a specified
cost or rate; a bid.
Something, especially money, offered in payment.
Suggesting
terms, methods of payment, and discounts
Companies sometimes state the price, however, even if conditions
are quoted, you can mention you
usually expect certain concessions and politely suggest that,
if your terms were met, you would be more likely to place
an order.
e.g. Could you let us know if you allow cash discounts?
Closing
． Usually a simple “thank you” is sufficient to close an enquiry.
． You can also indicate further business or other lines you
would be interested in.
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