/SourceRFQ Marketplace FAQ
Everything you need to know about sourcing solar equipment through our RFQ marketplace
Getting Started
What is a Source Request?
A source request is a formal request from a buyer seeking price quotes from vendors for specific solar equipment or services. It includes details like product specifications, quantities, delivery requirements, and project timelines. Source requests allow buyers to compare multiple offers and select the best solution for their needs.
How does the source marketplace work?
Buyers post their solar equipment needs through our platform. Sunhub reviews each request and attempts to fulfill it within 24 hours. If Sunhub cannot fulfill the request, it's automatically published to our public marketplace where verified vendors can browse requests and submit competitive quotes. Buyers then review all quotes and select their preferred vendor.
Is there a cost to use the platform?
Creating an account and posting source requests is completely free for buyers. Vendors can browse requests and submit quotes at no cost. We operate on a transparent model with no hidden fees for basic marketplace participation.
For Buyers
How do I post a source request?
Click the 'Post Your Request' button on the homepage or Source Center. Choose between a single product request or a project BOM (Bill of Materials) for multiple items. Fill in details including product specifications, quantity, delivery location, and timeline. Submit your request and track its status in 'My Requests'.
What happens after I submit my request?
Your request enters a 24-hour review period where Sunhub attempts to fulfill it directly. If Sunhub fulfills your request, you'll receive a direct quote. If not fulfilled within 24 hours, your request is automatically published to the public marketplace where vendors can submit competitive bids.
How long does it take to receive quotes?
For Sunhub-fulfilled requests, you typically receive a quote within 24 hours. For marketplace-published requests, vendors usually respond within 2-5 business days depending on the complexity of your requirements and current market demand.
Can I communicate with vendors directly?
Yes! Once quotes are submitted, you can use our secure in-app messaging system to communicate with vendors, ask questions, negotiate terms, and discuss project details. Email addresses are protected to maintain privacy and security.
What information should I include in my request?
Include detailed product specifications (brand, model, wattage for solar panels, etc.), exact quantities needed, delivery location (city/state), preferred delivery timeline, any special requirements or certifications needed, and your project budget if comfortable sharing. More details help vendors provide accurate quotes.
For Vendors
How do I become a vendor on the platform?
Create a free account and complete your vendor profile with your company information, certifications, and product expertise. Once verified, you can immediately view active source requests and submit quotes to buyers.
How do I find relevant requests?
View the 'Active Requests' page where all published requests are listed. Use filters to narrow by product category (solar panels, inverters, batteries, etc.), location, quantity, or timeline. You can also bookmark requests to review later.
What should I include in my quote?
Provide competitive unit pricing, total pricing, estimated lead time for delivery, your company details, any relevant certifications or warranties, and detailed notes about your offering. The more comprehensive your quote, the better chance of winning the business.
How do I communicate with buyers?
After submitting a quote, you can message buyers directly through our secure in-app messaging system. This allows you to answer questions, provide additional documentation, negotiate terms, and finalize deal details.
Can I submit quotes on multiple requests?
Absolutely! There's no limit to how many requests you can respond to. We encourage vendors to actively participate and submit quotes on all relevant requests that match your product offerings and capabilities.
Solar Procurement
What types of solar equipment can I source?
Our marketplace covers all major solar equipment categories including solar panels (monocrystalline, polycrystalline, thin-film), inverters (string, micro, hybrid), batteries and energy storage systems, mounting and racking systems, charge controllers, cables and connectors, and monitoring systems.
Are all products certified and compliant?
Vendors are responsible for ensuring their products meet all applicable certifications (UL, IEC, TUV, etc.) and compliance standards. We recommend buyers verify certifications and request documentation before finalizing purchases. Always check that products meet local building codes and utility requirements.
Can I request custom specifications?
Yes! When posting your request, include any custom specifications, special requirements, or unique project needs in the notes section. Vendors who can accommodate custom orders will respond accordingly with tailored quotes.
What about warranties and after-sales support?
Warranty terms and after-sales support vary by vendor and product. When reviewing quotes, ask vendors about their warranty coverage, replacement policies, technical support availability, and maintenance services. These are important factors beyond just price.
Security & Privacy
Is my information secure?
Yes. We use industry-standard encryption and security measures to protect your data. Email addresses are never exposed to other users. All communication happens through our secure messaging system. Payment information is handled securely through trusted payment processors.
Who can see my source requests?
During the initial 24-hour review period, only Sunhub reviews your request. If published to the marketplace, all verified vendors can view your request details (excluding personal contact information). You control what information you share in your request.
How do you verify vendors?
All vendors go through a verification process that includes business registration validation, license verification where applicable, and review of company credentials. We maintain quality standards to ensure buyers connect with legitimate, professional vendors.
Technical Support
I'm having trouble posting a request. What should I do?
First, ensure all required fields are completed accurately. Check that file attachments (if any) are in supported formats and within size limits. If issues persist, try clearing your browser cache or using a different browser. Contact our support team if problems continue.
Can I edit my request after submitting?
Once submitted, requests enter the review process and cannot be directly edited to maintain quote accuracy. However, you can cancel a request and submit a new one with corrections, or use the messaging system to clarify details with vendors who have submitted quotes.
How do I track my request status?
Visit 'My Requests' in your account dashboard to view all your submitted requests and their current status (under review, published to marketplace, quotes received, fulfilled). You'll also receive notifications when vendors submit quotes or send messages.
Still Have Questions?
Can't find the answer you're looking for? Our team is here to help.
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