Make the comparison like for like
Two suppliers can receive the same BOM and still price different work. Ask each to state the revision, sourcing model, quantity and services included.
| Compare | Questions to ask |
|---|---|
| Components | Same manufacturer part numbers? Approved alternatives? Minimum quantities or unused material? |
| PCB fabrication | Same stack-up, finish, copper and panel assumptions? |
| Setup | Are stencil, programming, engineering and fixture charges included or separate? |
| Testing | What inspection and functional testing are actually included? |
| Delivery | Are freight, packaging, taxes and commercial delivery terms comparable? |
Separate initial charges from repeat costs
A first order may include tooling and preparation that do not recur unchanged on every build. Request a breakdown and ask what triggers a new setup charge after a design change.
Ask about the lead-time starting point
Does the schedule begin after order acceptance, payment, file release or full material readiness? A short quoted production time may not include component procurement.
Record exclusions
Keep a short list of assumptions and exclusions alongside each quotation. Clarify important gaps before comparing totals or placing an order.
A higher quotation may cover more work; a lower quotation may be competitive for the same scope. The decision requires the actual details, not a general rule that one price level is better.