Give each supplier the same reference package
Prepare one enquiry package containing the application, delivery destination, glass schedule, drawings and required documents. Give it a revision and send the same version to each supplier. If the design changes during enquiry, keep a record of who has received the update.
Ask the quotation to name the revision and panel quantities used. This makes it easier to identify whether a price difference comes from commercial terms or from different assumptions.
Compare the complete construction and processing
Check the quoted glass build-up, heat treatment, interlayer, coating, finish and pane orientation. A general description such as laminated glass or Low-E glass does not specify every part of the construction. Record any alternatives alongside the requested specification.
Compare processing details too. Edge finishes, holes, notches, cut-outs and shaped or curved geometry should refer to the same drawings. For mixed schedules, confirm which panel marks are included and how repeated or unique shapes are counted.
| Comparison item | What to check |
|---|---|
| Glass build-up | Pane thicknesses, heat treatment, interlayer and cavity requirements |
| Coatings and appearance | Specified coating, face position, tint, low-iron or pattern reference |
| Fabrication | Edges, holes, cut-outs, shapes and drawing revisions |
| Quantity and price basis | Panel marks, quantities, units and any separately quoted items |
| Exceptions | Alternatives, assumptions and exclusions clearly identified |
Match documents and inspection to the quoted product
List the inspection records, product documents or project-specific evidence required before ordering. Ask which documents are available, who issues them and what product, construction and scope they cover.
A certificate image, factory photograph or general statement does not by itself establish compliance for every quoted panel. Where the project requires a particular standard or test, the responsible project team should check the exact requirement and the applicability of the proposed evidence.
- Document title, issuer, relevant product and stated scope
- Inspection checkpoints and records included in the order
- Sample or appearance approval requirements
- Any testing, inspection or document work quoted separately
Write down the packing and delivery basis
Confirm the destination and the delivery responsibilities included in each proposal. State the named delivery location and agreed trade term, where used, so freight and handling assumptions can be compared. Ask which costs remain with the buyer and which are included in the supplier proposal.
For packing, discuss panel grouping, crate identification and any site handling constraints. The proposal should identify agreed packing and shipment scope. Clarify transport damage reporting and claim arrangements before ordering.
- Packing scope and crate or panel identification
- Freight inclusion and named destination or collection point
- Loading, unloading and onward handling responsibilities
- Insurance, import-related costs and other exclusions where applicable
Check what starts the production programme
Ask which approvals and order conditions must be complete before the quoted production period starts. Drawing revisions, samples, quantity changes and unresolved specifications can affect the agreed scope and timing. Keep production timing separate from shipping and onward delivery.
Record quote validity, payment arrangements and how changes will be confirmed. Before placing the order, ask for a final schedule that reconciles the agreed construction, panel marks, quantities and exceptions.
Send a short clarification list before deciding
Use the checklist below to collect comparable answers. For a new supply enquiry, send your own glass schedule and current drawings rather than another supplier's confidential quotation. If you share comparison information, remove unrelated personal or confidential details.
Please confirm the quotation basis: 1. Drawing / schedule revision and included panel marks 2. Complete glass build-up, processing and finish 3. Price units, quantities and separately quoted items 4. Inspection records and product documents included 5. Packing scope, delivery term and named destination 6. Production start conditions and shipping assumptions 7. Validity, payment arrangements, alternatives and exclusions
Project questions
Is the lowest price a sufficient basis for choosing a glass supplier?
First reconcile the product, processing, quantity, documentation and delivery scope. After those points are comparable, assess the commercial terms and the evidence relevant to your project.
Can one general certificate cover every construction on my schedule?
Check the specific certificate or report and its scope against the products being quoted. The applicability of evidence to a project must be reviewed against the actual requirements.
YOUR PROJECT, YOUR DRAWINGS
Request a quote against your glass schedule
Include your application, glass build-up, approximate quantities and delivery destination. Email drawings separately and identify the revision.