Quotations are only comparable when they describe the same project. Most "why is yours higher" moments come from comparing two documents that were never measuring the same thing. Watch for these five pitfalls.
1. Comparing only on unit price
A lower sticker price can mean a thinner specification, fewer included spares, or a smaller motor. Always read what the price actually covers before ranking suppliers by the headline number.
2. Mismatched capacity basis
"100 t silo" can mean 100 t total or 100 t per hour; "drying" can mean batch or continuous, seasonal or daily. Confirm whether the capacity in the quote matches your actual throughput or storage need - not just the tonnage written on the page.
3. Hidden scope gaps
The equipment price is rarely the project price. Check whether installation supervision, sea freight, insurance, destination customs, training, and a starter set of wear parts are included or excluded. A quote that omits freight and installation can look 20-30% cheaper and still cost more delivered.
4. Ignoring validity and exchange rate
Quotations have a validity window because steel and exchange rates move. A 60-day-old number may no longer be honoured. Confirm the valid-until date and which currency and rate the price is based on before you commit internally.
5. Trader versus manufacturer
A trading intermediary can be convenient, but after-sales parts, original drawings, and engineering support ultimately come from the manufacturer. Weigh the convenience of a trader against the long-term security of buying where the engineering and spare parts actually live.