How should you compare factory construction quotations?

1. Use the same documents for every quotation

Send every contractor the same dated drawings, area breakdown and requirements list. Record which drawing revision each quotation is based on. If drawings or scope change, check that every quotation reflects the same changes.

• Project name, location and drawing date
• Production, storage, administrative and external areas
• Structural system and expected level of completion

2. Ask the same questions for each work item

Create a comparison table with work items in rows and quotations in columns. Each entry should include quantities, units, material specifications and scope status as well as price. Ask for clarification instead of assuming an unclear item is included.

• What is the work item and where will it be carried out?
• Which drawing or calculation supports the quantity and unit?
• Are the material and workmanship specifications equivalent?
• Is the item included or excluded, and who else will carry it out?
• Is the price fixed, and which changes would trigger a review?

3. Define the handover points between teams

Foundations and precast assembly, steel anchors and fabrication, and machinery layouts and service connections may involve different teams. Identify who prepares and who accepts each interface.

• Excavation, foundations and column-pocket or anchor works
• Structural frame, roof and facade
• Electrical and mechanical installations and machine connections
• Finishing works, external areas and landscaping
• Racking, cranes, cooling systems or production equipment

4. Align programme start and finish conditions

A single duration such as “four months” cannot be compared without knowing which stage it describes. Ask about start conditions such as site handover, design approval, procurement and client preparations, and end points such as shell completion, assembly or ready-for-use handover.

5. Review payment and handover terms together

Clarify which completed works trigger each payment, how outstanding items will be recorded and who will prepare handover documentation. Currency, tax inclusion or exclusion and quotation validity should also be part of the comparison.

This checklist helps prepare for quotation discussions; it does not replace a legal review of a specific contract.

6. Resolve uncertainties and reconfirm the scope

After comparing quotations, ask each contractor to clarify outstanding points in writing. Exclusions in an apparently lower quotation may require additional budget and separate teams. Consider the defined scope and a feasible programme alongside the total price.