Clarify subcontracting in a supplier RFQ

A supplier may rely on another workshop for printing, coating or assembly. That is not automatically a problem, but the buyer needs a clear line of responsibility. Subcontracting can affect quality records, intellectual-property handling, capacity and the route for correcting defects.

Define the requirement

Identify processes where the approved facility or method matters. Ask the supplier to name material subcontracted stages and where they occur, subject to a sensible confidentiality agreement if needed. State which changes require your approval before production moves to another site.

Questions to send with the RFQ

Ask who inspects outsourced work, what standards the subcontractor receives and who handles rework. If a third party is used only for one process, request the same specification and revision controls that apply to the main supplier.

Review the answer

Compare the supplier's proposed controls, not just the fact that a subcontractor exists. An integrated factory can still perform poorly; a well-managed external process can be sound. The decisive question is whether responsibilities and evidence stay visible through the order.

An example to adapt

For a hypothetical printed metal box, the main supplier may form the box and outsource coating. Put coating finish and adhesion expectations in the RFQ, then require the contracting supplier to own the finished result regardless of where the coating is applied.

Decision before sending

The decision to accept subcontracting should match the process risk. A decorative finishing step may need different oversight from a structural weld or a critical electronic assembly. Ask the contracting supplier how it approves an outside processor and how it catches a defect before shipment. If the work moves to a different site after sample approval, require notice and assess whether the original sample still represents the production method. This preserves accountability without pretending that every step must happen under one roof.

Source context

The U.S. Commercial Service due-diligence guide recommends investigating a prospective partner before transacting. Ask which manufacturing or inspection steps the bidder will perform and which are assigned to another company, then check the evidence for the party doing the critical work.