| Product specification | Material, finish, dimensions, load rating, opening angle, and included fasteners. | Request a written specification sheet and confirm that every quotation covers the same model and configuration. | A quote lists only a general product name, with no material grade, finish, or tolerance details. |
| Unit pricing | Price by product, quantity tier, packaging, and any customization. | Compare at least three quantities and check whether quoted prices are per piece, pair, or set. Separate tooling, sample, and packing charges. | An unusually low price is not supported by a clear specification or a breakdown of extra charges. |
| Minimum order and samples | Minimum order quantity (MOQ), sample availability, sample cost, and sample dispatch time. | Ask whether the MOQ changes for different finishes or custom packaging, and request a production sample before bulk approval. | The supplier will not confirm the MOQ or sample conditions in writing. |
| Quality evidence | Material declarations, inspection records, finish tests, and applicable test reports. | Match documents to the exact product and finish. Define acceptance criteria and inspection timing before production. | Documents are outdated, generic, or cannot be linked to the quoted product. |
| Production lead time | Sample time, mass-production time, and whether the schedule starts after deposit, drawing approval, or sample approval. | For standard items, ask for a specific calendar estimate; custom finishes or tooling can add time. Get the production start condition in writing. | A single delivery estimate is given without distinguishing sample, production, and transit time. |
| Communication | Response time, clarity, technical understanding, and consistency across emails and documents. | Send the same specification and questions to each candidate. Assess whether answers are complete, dated, and documented. | Important details change between messages or questions about tolerances and packaging go unanswered. |
| Packaging and protection | Individual packing, carton strength, moisture protection, labeling, and carton dimensions. | Request carton measurements, gross weight, units per carton, and photos or a packing specification before shipment. | Packaging is excluded from the quote or not suitable for the chosen transport method. |
| Shipping and Incoterms | EXW, FOB, or another agreed Incoterm; freight mode; named destination; and included charges. | Compare landed-cost components separately: export handling, freight, insurance if applicable, import duty, tax, and destination charges. | A shipping price is provided without an Incoterm, destination, shipment size, or list of exclusions. |
| Payment and order terms | Deposit, balance timing, payment method, quotation validity, and remedies for nonconformity. | Put specifications, inspection arrangements, delivery terms, and payment milestones in the purchase contract. | Payment instructions or bank-account details change without independent verification. |
| Final comparison | Total landed cost, specification match, sample quality, communication, and schedule reliability. | Score each category against your priorities and choose based on verified value, not unit price alone. | The lowest quote is selected before samples, shipping terms, or quality requirements are confirmed. |