What is a Term Contract?
A Term Contract is a long-term agreement between a buyer and supplier to provide goods or services at pre-agreed prices over a specified period (e.g., 6 months, 1 year, or longer).
For Buyers
A Term Contract allows you to:
- Lock in pricing — Secure stable prices for frequently purchased items, protecting against market fluctuations
- Streamline procurement — Place orders directly against the contract without running a new RFQ each time
- Reduce administrative overhead — Minimize repetitive sourcing for recurring needs
- Ensure supply availability — Guarantee access to critical items from a committed supplier
For Suppliers
A Term Contract provides you with:
- Predictable revenue — Secure a steady stream of orders over the contract duration
- Simplified sales process — Receive orders directly without competing in new RFQs for each purchase
- Stronger buyer relationships — Build long-term partnerships with committed customers
- Better planning — Forecast demand and manage inventory more effectively
Things to Note for Suppliers
When participating in a Term Contract RFQ, keep these considerations in mind:
- Price commitment — Your quoted prices are locked for the contract duration. Factor in potential cost increases before submitting.
- Quantities are estimates — Actual order volumes may vary. Do not assume guaranteed minimums unless explicitly stated.
- Capacity and delivery — Ensure you can consistently fulfill orders on short notice throughout the contract period.