Supply and commercial
Two quotes differ by 12 percent. How do I compare them properly?
Normalise five things first. Most price gaps disappear when the quotes are compared on the same basis, and the ones that remain are real.
At a glance
Specification at a glance
| Line | Question to ask | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Is tolerance ±1.5 or ±3 g/m²? | Lower weight at same price |
| Width | Parent width or slit? | Trim waste sits in price |
| Packing | Pallet, wrap, core, label | Changes freight per tonne |
| Documents | COA, CO, test report included? | Adds real cost later |
| Terms | FOB or CIF, payment terms | Changes landed cost |
The weight tolerance trick
A supplier quoting ±3 g/m² at 45 gsm can deliver 42 gsm and stay compliant, which is 7 percent less material for the same price. Compare the delivered weight, not the nominal one.
Packing changes freight
Two suppliers at the same fabric price can differ 15 percent landed because one loads 22 tonnes and the other 18. Ask for a loading plan with the quote.
Put the commercial question to us directly
Send the volume, the destination port and the document set your customs broker needs. We answer with the terms and the timeline.
Questions
Common questions
Should I always take the lowest price?
No. Compare landed cost at the delivered weight and the document set, then decide.
How do I check the delivered weight?
Weigh a sample of rolls and cut a 100 cm² specimen. State the method in the specification.
What if the quotes are identical?
Then compare lead time, change control and the response when something goes wrong.