China Supplier Quote Comparison Checklist
A standardized, data-backed 10-step verification framework for evaluating B2B manufacturing quotes before releasing deposits.
The Definitive 10-Step Sourcing Checklist
Complete each verification step below. Do not wire a deposit or sign a contract if any of these steps are marked "Incomplete" or "Failed".
Do not compare EXW or CIF directly. Add estimated inland freight/customs ($300-$600 per container) to EXW, or isolate shipping margins from CIF to establish a true FOB benchmark.
Verify that every factory is quoting the exact same alloy grade (e.g., 6063-T5), profile wall thickness, glass specs (e.g., double low-E vs single), and thermal break materials (e.g., PA66GF25).
Reject single lump-sum quotes (e.g., "$90/sqm all-in"). Require breakdowns showing raw profile cost, glass, hardware, packaging, and factory assembly.
Identify MOQ limitations. Verify if a small order triggers "less-than-container" loading surcharges, customization penalties, or higher unit rates.
Get written guarantees for custom profile extrusion die costs ($300-$3,000). Confirm if tooling fees are refundable after reaching a specific order volume threshold.
Standard is 30% deposit, 70% against pre-shipment inspection. Avoid suppliers demanding 50%+ deposits upfront. Budget for local bank currency spreads (0.5% - 2%).
Ensure certifications are mentioned in the quotation scope. (e.g., SASO SABER for Saudi, CE for EU, AS2047 for Australia). Verify test lab validity.
Verify company on the SAMR National Registry. Ensure manufacturing scope (制造/加工) is listed. Confirm physical address matches their industrial zone.
Model all destination surcharges: duties (5% GCC, Section 301 US), terminal port handling, VAT, inland trucking, and custom clearance overheads.
Embed a clause: "Balance payment released ONLY after successful 3rd party quality inspection (SGS/QIMA) and defect rate under 1.5%."
18-Field Supplier Comparison Matrix
Fill out this structured evaluation sheet to easily visualize and analyze quote variations between your 3 shortlisted manufacturers.
| Field / Parameter | Supplier A | Supplier B | Supplier C |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Company Registered Name | |||
| 2. Manufacturing Location | |||
| 3. Verified Entity Status | |||
| 4. Product Specifications | |||
| 5. Profile Alloy & Thickness | |||
| 6. Glazing Specification | |||
| 7. Thermal Break Material | |||
| 8. FOB Unit Price (Per m²) | |||
| 9. Minimum Order Quantity | |||
| 10. Tooling & Mold Cost | |||
| 11. Sample Unit Cost | |||
| 12. Payment Milestone Terms | |||
| 13. Quoted Production Time | |||
| 14. Export Packaging Scope | |||
| 15. Certificates held | |||
| 16. On-Site Inspection Rights | |||
| 17. Business License Status | |||
| 18. Quote Validity Expiry |
Sourcing Quote Red Flags
- Unit prices >30% below average: Usually signals usage of inferior, non-certified alloys, recycled scraps, or extremely thin profiles.
- Single lump-sum with no breakdown: Hides inflated margins for packaging, tooling, and accessories.
- Refusal of 3rd Party Inspection: Instant disqualification indicator. Reliable factories in Foshan routinely accommodate audits.
- Vague specifications / "Or Equivalent": Allows the factory to swap out premium hardware for local, low-grade copies during assembly.
- Demanding 50%+ deposit: Unreasonable cash-flow burden on importer. Normal terms are 30/70.
Incoterms Normalization Guide
Factory gate only. You bear all local Chinese trucking and export clearance fees.
Supplier covers trucking to China port and export customs. The gold comparison standard.
Often bundles high carrier margins. Isolate product cost from shipping before deciding.