How to Read a DIBBS RFQ: A Field by Field Guide

To read a DIBBS RFQ, start with five fields: the NSN (what part it is), the quantity and unit of issue (how many), the delivery days (how fast), the AMSC code (who is allowed to make it) and the return by date (when your quote is due). Those five fields tell you in about a minute whether the RFQ is worth a closer look. Everything else, like packaging, inspection and technical data, decides how you price it.

A DIBBS RFQ (Request for Quotation) is how the Defense Logistics Agency asks suppliers to quote on parts it buys for the military. If you are new to the system, read What Is DIBBS? first. This guide walks through the RFQ itself, field by field, in plain words.

Quick facts

• DIBBS is the DLA Internet Bid Board System, where DLA posts RFQs for military parts.
• Every RFQ is tied to at least one National Stock Number (NSN), a 13 digit code for one specific item.
• The AMSC code is a single letter that tells you how DLA plans to buy the part and whether new sources can qualify.
• An RFQ lists approved sources by CAGE code and part number when the item is source controlled.
• Quotes are due by the return by date shown on the RFQ. Late quotes are generally not considered.

Live example

Real example. At the time of writing (Nov 2, 2026), DIBBS showed RFQ SPE4A727T2337 for NSN 1560-01-151-9514, a Former, Aircraft (FSC 1560), quantity 94 EA, with a close date of 2026-11-06. It was set aside as Total Small Business and listed 11 approved sources. Reading it with the five fields: the NSN tells you the exact part, 94 EA tells you the run size, the close date gives you four days to quote, and 11 approved sources means you should confirm you can meet the approved source requirement before you spend time pricing it.

We will use this RFQ to show where each field lives and what it tells you.

Step 1: Read the header

The top of the RFQ shows the solicitation number, the issue date and the return by date. The solicitation number is how you find the RFQ again and how DLA tracks your quote. The return by date is your hard deadline. Put it on your calendar the moment you decide to look closer.

The header also names the buying office and the buyer. If something in the RFQ is unclear, the buyer is who you ask.

Step 2: Check the NSN and item description

The NSN tells you exactly which item DLA wants. The first four digits are the Federal Supply Class, which is a broad category like fasteners or valves. The last nine digits are the NIIN, which points to one specific item. Our guide What Is an NSN? breaks this down.

Next to the NSN you will see a short item name, often in all caps and written noun first, like "VALVE, CHECK." That short name is a starting point, not the full spec. To see past buys for the same part, search DIBBS by NSN.

Step 3: Look at quantity, unit of issue and delivery

The quantity line shows how many units DLA wants and the unit of issue, such as EA (each), PR (pair) or SE (set). Read the unit of issue carefully. Quoting a price per each when the unit is a set is a common, costly mistake.

Delivery is listed in days after award. Compare that number to your real lead time for material, machining, finishing and inspection. If you cannot meet it, you can sometimes offer a different delivery, but that may hurt your chances.

Step 4: Decode the AMSC code

The Acquisition Method Suffix Code is one letter near the NSN. It is one of the fastest ways to sort RFQs. Some codes mean the item can be bought competitively from anyone who can build it to the government's data. Others mean only approved sources can supply it, or that new sources must go through a qualification process first.

You do not need to memorize every code. Use our AMSC decoder to look up the letter on any RFQ and see what it means for your bid.

Step 5: Find approved sources and part numbers

Many RFQs list one or more approved sources: a CAGE code paired with a part number. If the item is source controlled, you generally need to offer that exact part from an approved source, or be one. If you are not listed, read the RFQ for instructions on submitting a source approval request.

When no approved sources are listed and drawings are available, the item may be open to any capable shop that can build to the technical data.

Step 6: Review technical data, inspection and packaging

Look for links to drawings or technical data packages. Some data is restricted and needs extra steps to access. Check the inspection and acceptance terms, such as whether inspection happens at origin or destination, and whether First Article Testing is required. Then check packaging and marking requirements. These lines add real cost, so price them in.

Step 7: Decide and quote

Once you have read the RFQ, ask three questions. Can we make it to spec? Can we meet the delivery? Can we price it to win and still profit? If the answers are yes, follow our step by step guide on how to quote on DIBBS.

Reading RFQs faster

Reading every RFQ by hand takes time, and DLA posts a lot of them. Software can do the first pass for you. FedOpp matches DIBBS and SAM.gov opportunities to the parts you make and shows award history, so you can see who won before and at what scale. That means you spend your reading time on RFQs that actually fit your shop. Our guide to choosing DIBBS software covers what to look for.

FAQ

What is the most important field on a DIBBS RFQ?

The NSN, because it defines the exact item. Right after that, check the AMSC code and the approved sources to see whether you are allowed to supply it.

What does the return by date mean on a DIBBS RFQ?

It is the deadline for your quote. Quotes received after that date are generally not considered, so submit early.

Can I quote on a DIBBS RFQ if I am not an approved source?

It depends on the AMSC code and the RFQ terms. Some items are open to any capable maker. Source controlled items generally need an approved source, though the RFQ may explain how to request approval.

Where do I find drawings for a DIBBS RFQ?

Look for technical data links on the RFQ. Some data is restricted and requires extra access steps before you can view it.

How can I see who won this part before?

Search DIBBS by NSN to view past awards, or use a tool like FedOpp that shows award history next to each matched opportunity.