Why compare per-unit delivered cost?

Unit prices alone can be misleading. A cheaper unit price with high delivery might cost more overall than a slightly pricier supplier offering free delivery. Per-unit delivered cost levels the playing field for fair comparison.

Should I always choose the cheapest supplier?

Not always. Consider delivery speed, product quality, return policy, account terms, and reliability. A supplier who delivers next-day and handles returns well may be worth a small premium over the cheapest option.

How do I negotiate better trade prices?

Open trade accounts with multiple suppliers, ask about bulk discounts, check if there are loyalty schemes, enquire about price-matching policies, and buy during seasonal sales. Building a relationship with your rep often unlocks better deals.

Should I factor in VAT when comparing?

If all suppliers charge the same VAT rate (typically 20%), comparing ex-VAT prices is fine as VAT does not change the relative ranking. If VAT treatment differs (some zero-rated items), compare inc-VAT to see the actual cost.

How do I handle minimum order quantities?

Some suppliers require minimum orders for free delivery or best pricing. Calculate the total cost including any surplus materials - buying more at a lower unit price might still be cheaper even with waste.

TradeCalculator

Quote Comparison Calculator

Compare supplier prices normalised to per-unit delivered cost

Supplier 1 - Unit Price

Supplier 1 - Quantity

Supplier 1 - Delivery

Supplier 2 - Unit Price

Supplier 2 - Quantity

Supplier 2 - Delivery

How We Calculate This

Enter the unit price, quantity, delivery charge, and any discount percentage for up to three suppliers. The calculator computes the total delivered cost for each (unit price x quantity, minus discount, plus delivery) and normalises to a per-unit delivered cost. The cheapest supplier is highlighted along with the potential saving versus the most expensive option.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: March 2026

All calculations are estimates. Verify with your supplier.