Freeze the brief
Assign a revision to the size, ET, bolt pattern, finish, target market and quantity. Keep front and rear axle requirements on separate rows.
Independent sourcing desk / China
HRE Wheels sourcing starts with fitment
Give each supplier the same wheel geometry, finish and load brief. Compare quotes against that brief before you commit to samples or tooling.
Alloy wheel sourcing
Four briefs for different wheel programs
Review inputs
Build a specification suppliers can quote
| Input | RFQ detail |
|---|---|
| PCD | Record the bolt count and pitch circle diameter in mm, such as 5 × 114.3. |
| Center bore | Specify wheel bore and hub pilot diameter separately. Record the fastener seat profile and thread on the same sheet. |
| Input | RFQ detail |
|---|---|
| Wheel offset (ET) | Record signed offset in mm and rim width in inches. Compare inner and outer positions with the reference wheel. |
| Brake package | Request a spoke and barrel drawing and match it to the caliper envelope before approving the sample. |
| Input | RFQ detail |
|---|---|
| Load rating | Provide the required load in kg per wheel and ask each supplier to identify the drawing revision covered. |
| Finish and runout | Agree a finish reference and ask how the supplier records radial and lateral runout on the sample. |
Project checkpoints
What to release at each step
- 01
- 02
Compare on one basis
Separate tooling, sample freight, packaging and unit price. Record the supplier's named Incoterm place and which checks are included.
- 03
Approve the reference sample
Ask for a sample identifier and measurement sheet, then log any deviation and the buyer’s disposition before releasing an order.
- 04
Reconcile the shipment
Match carton labels and pallet counts to order lines. Check consignee details with the buyer and freight handover with the forwarder.
Buyer workflows
Start with the application
Import distribution
Group the catalog by vehicle, axle and brake package before setting assortment quantities.
Performance programs
Use the caliper envelope and load requirement to screen a design before comparing spoke profiles.
Specialist retailers
Capture finish and wheel hardware separately so listings can describe what comes in each carton.
Service networks
Keep replacement and original program revisions linked for traceable reorder requests.
Platform sourcing
Ask each supplier to list drawing exceptions before the sample build.
Mixed orders
Agree lot IDs and outer-carton marks before handing multiple orders to one forwarder.
Scroll to explore buyer workflows
Before the inquiry
Wheel sourcing questions
Compare drawings at the same fitment and required load. Ask the forged supplier about finish and custom machining costs, and the cast supplier whether a catalog design fits or tooling is needed. Compare sample and validation costs alongside unit price.
PCD describes one mounting dimension. Review center bore, offset, rim width, seat type, load and the spoke and barrel clearance against the actual trim and brake package.
Ask the supplier to confirm them against the requested SKU, finish and brief revision. Record which date starts the schedule and whether sample approval, tooling or inspection falls inside the quoted period.
Put your reference wheel on the brief
Send the current size, offset and brake package along with the proposed change. We can use both to frame the supplier comparison.
Prepare an RFQ