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How to Compare Steel Quotations: What to Check Beyond the Unit Price

How to Compare Steel Quotations: What to Check Beyond the Unit Price

A quotation that lists only a price per ton leaves the real cost open. Two suppliers can quote the same grade at the same figure and still deliver very different value, depending on tolerance, coating weight, packing and how much material actually fits in a container.

A complete quotation states the governing standard and grade, the dimensions with tolerances, the surface or coating specification, the quantity, the packing method, the Incoterm, the lead time, the payment terms and how long the offer holds. If any of these are missing, ask for them in writing before you compare.

Watch three details that move cost the most. First, whether weight is calculated on theoretical or actual weight — the difference is often one to three percent. Second, whether coating weight is measured per square meter or per side. Third, how the container is loaded, because a well-planned loading raises the tonnage per container and lowers freight per ton.

When you request a quotation from us you receive this level of detail as standard, together with the mill test certificate for the heat number supplied. Send us your specification and destination port and we will return a complete offer, usually within one working day.

Need a quotation for your project?

Contact our sales team