A practical comparison guide
Supplier offers can look comparable while using different specifications, pack sizes, charges, and timing terms. Put each offer on the same requested basis first, and keep anything unconfirmed visible as an open question.
Start with the comparison basisNormalize the offer, not the uncertainty
Work from the request and the supplier’s written terms. Each difference can change compliance, total cost, delivery confidence, or whether the quoted offer still applies.
Use the same RFQ version and make one comparison row for each requested item or service. Check the quoted identifier, material or grade, dimensions, tolerances, quality requirements, and scope against what was requested. Mark missing items and alternatives explicitly.
Choose the unit that matches the need, such as each, kilogram, metre, hour, or requested service period. Record each supplier’s quoted unit and pack count, convert to that shared unit, then extend the rate to the same required quantity. Keep minimum order quantities, rounding, and pack constraints visible.
Start with the price for the same compliant quantity and destination. Add freight and other applicable charges only when their amount and basis are confirmed. Record whether each charge is included, separately quoted, conditional, excluded, estimated, or not stated. Check relevant packaging, handling, insurance, duties, and taxes without assuming they are included.
Keep the quoted duration and whether it means business or calendar days. Identify the trigger that starts the clock, such as purchase-order receipt, deposit, or approval of specifications, and the endpoint, such as dispatch or arrival at the named delivery location.
Record when the quote was issued and the date through which its price and terms apply. If no validity period is stated, ask how long the offer remains open. Check validity against the expected approval and order date.
For each unresolved point, record the quote line, what is unknown, and the clarification needed. Preserve the supplier’s original wording and any revised quote version so the comparison can be traced back to its source.
How differences change the comparison
These examples show comparison treatment, not real supplier offers or prices.
| Difference | Offer A | Offer B | Normalize before deciding |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pack basis | Price per case of 12 items | Price per item | Convert both to the requested unit and quantity. Confirm the pack count and any minimum order before extending the price. |
| Freight | Included to the named site | Excluded or to be confirmed | Compare confirmed charges to the same destination. Keep excluded or conditional freight open instead of treating it as zero. |
| Lead time | Business days from order to dispatch | Calendar weeks from approval to site delivery | The start trigger, duration unit, and endpoint differ. Ask for timing on a shared basis or compare confirmed arrival dates. |
| Quote validity | Valid through a stated date | No expiry stated or validity has passed | Confirm that price and terms still apply before ranking or awarding. |
Offer A and Offer B are generic examples. They do not describe actual suppliers or verified market terms.
About Quirkettle
Quirkettle saves quote amount, currency, price basis, lead time, and validity for side- by-side review. Buyers should normalize line items and mixed currencies themselves; the app does not convert currencies or calculate landed cost.