Quote Comparison Calculator

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.