Learning path: leave each gate with reviewable evidence before moving forward.
Why a comparison path is needed
You have replies, but one includes packing while another quotes unpacked goods; one assumes 1,000 units and another 5,000. Ranking unit prices directly would mislead the decision. This path produces one comparison sheet with a common product version, quantity and delivery basis, plus unresolved questions. FindBao may assist with inquiries and quote comparison within an agreed assignment; the buyer makes the purchase and payment decisions.
Gate 1: fix the RFQ baseline
State the fields that must match at the top of the inquiry: specification and revision, materials, colour, packing, destination market, quantity tiers, sample criteria, lead time and validity. Put alternative materials, processes or trade terms into separate options. Use the RFQ template and clear RFQ guide.
Pass when: suppliers acknowledge the same revision and list deviations separately.
Gate 2: normalise every quoted line
Separate unit goods price, quantity thresholds, tooling and artwork charges, samples, testing, packing, transport and tax exclusions, and payment terms. Record currency, trade term, validity and estimates. Clarify whether MOQ applies to an order, model, colour, pack or component; a missing line is not a zero-cost line. The MOQ and pricing guide explains tier comparisons in more detail.
Pass when: each amount has a source, unit and inclusion status.
Gate 3: compare first-order cash and later exposure
At one first-order volume, calculate goods value and add applicable one-time charges, samples, testing and confirmed packing costs. Mark freight, import duty, inspection and rework as unpriced when the buyer must arrange them; do not invent a precise landed-cost figure. A low unit price with a high MOQ can hide inventory and cash exposure.
Pass when: a decision maker can see confirmed cash needs, unquoted costs and assumptions that could change the ranking.
Gate 4: state the trade-off and next verification
For each candidate, write one selection reason and the questions that must close first. A reasonable price with an unapproved sample remains pending; a cheap offer from an unclear payee needs identity review. Separate primary, backup and hold candidates, and name who checks contract, sample and compliance before commitment.
Stop when: decisive specifications, scope, payee or sample status are unclear. A comparison sheet is not purchase approval. See quote-comparison help for the operational view.