Sourcing from Turkey: what to include in your first enquiry

If you are sourcing from Turkey for a GCC business, start with a short buying brief. Give the supplier enough detail to judge whether your requirement fits before asking for a price.

Use these five points to make the first conversation more useful.

1. Describe the product and its use

Include the material, dimensions, finish and intended application. Attach a reference image or specification where helpful. Separate requirements that are essential from details you can discuss.

2. Explain the quantity

State whether you need a sample, a trial order or a repeat supply arrangement. Give an indicative quantity and ask about minimum order quantities. If future volumes are uncertain, say so rather than presenting them as confirmed demand.

3. Name the destination and timing

Provide the delivery country and city, the date you need the goods, and whether that date is flexible. Ask the supplier to distinguish production timing from transport arrangements so both sides understand what is included.

4. Clarify quality and packaging needs

Describe any required testing, product documentation, labelling or packaging. Ask what the supplier can provide. Leave unresolved requirements visible for checking before placing an order.

5. Ask for a specific response

Request confirmation of product fit, sample availability, minimum quantity, indicative lead time and the basis of the quotation. Clarify currency, payment terms and which delivery costs are included before comparing offers.

Example enquiry: “We are assessing [product] for delivery to [city]. Our initial requirement is approximately [quantity], subject to sample approval. Please confirm product fit, minimum order quantity, sample options, indicative production time and what your quotation includes.”

Keep the enquiry brief. The aim is to establish whether a useful conversation is possible and identify what still needs checking.