Start by checking the brief version
Two quotations are only useful for comparison when they refer to the same product and quantity breakdown. Check that each supplier received the same drawing, materials, size range, decoration and packaging requirements. Record any alternative it has proposed.
If one factory quotes a stock fabric and another quotes a fabric developed for the order, the prices represent different solutions. You can still compare them, but describe the difference explicitly and decide whether both meet the product brief before comparing the totals.
Separate development from the garment price
Make a comparison sheet with individual rows for patterns, grading, samples, materials, cutting and sewing, decoration, labels, finishing and packaging. Add any other quoted service as its own row. Mark an item as included, excluded or awaiting confirmation instead of leaving an ambiguous blank.
A lower unit price may come with separate development charges. Equally, an inclusive quote may cover work you already have. Ask for clarification rather than dividing every charge into a garment price too early. Keep one-off costs visible so a potential repeat order can be assessed separately.
Record assumptions and change triggers
Ask how long the quotation remains valid and which assumptions could change it. Examples to clarify include the final quantity, colour split, fabric availability, artwork size and sample revisions. Record the quoted currency and confirm the delivery scope so you know which costs remain outside the proposal.
Discuss what happens if the specification changes after sampling. A change to fabric, measurements or decoration may require a revised quote. Keep the original and revised versions with dates so that the final approval refers to one agreed scope.
Compare the working process as well as price
Use your sheet to discuss unresolved items with each supplier. Ask who coordinates the order, how approvals are recorded and how production questions will be raised. The aim is to understand the proposed work and communication process, not to turn every answer into an artificial score.
Before selecting a partner, review the quote beside the sample and final specification. Confirm quantities, inclusions, exclusions and the next approval step in writing. A clear comparison should leave you able to explain why the chosen proposal fits the product and what still needs to be resolved before production.
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