In pictures
In this article
Short answer: convert every quote to the same unit, the same spec, the same shipping term and the same quantity before you compare. The cheapest-looking quote is usually cheapest because something is missing from it.
Step 1: same unit
Towels are often quoted per kg. Sheets are quoted per piece or per set. Convert everything to price per piece.
Price per piece = price per kg x piece weight in kg.
A 70 x 140 cm towel at 550 GSM weighs about 540 grams. At $4.80 per kg, it costs $2.59 per piece.
Step 2: same spec
Check each quote line against yours.
| Check | Why it changes the price |
|---|---|
| GSM or thread count | A 500 GSM towel uses about 9 percent less cotton than a 550 |
| Size | 68 x 136 cm is not 70 x 140 cm |
| Cotton type | Stated, or left vague |
| Colour | White costs less than dyed |
| Labels and embroidery | Included or extra |
Step 3: same shipping term
FOB means the price ends when the goods are loaded on the ship in India. CIF includes freight and insurance to your port. DDP includes delivery and duty to your door. You cannot compare an FOB price with a CIF price without adding the freight. Our guide to FOB, CIF and DDP explains each.
Step 4: same packing
Bale packing is cheaper than individual polybags in cartons. If one quote assumes bales and another assumes retail packing, the difference is packing, not price.
Step 5: same quantity and terms
Ask each supplier for the same two quantities. Note the payment terms, sample cost and lead time beside each price.
A worked example
| Supplier A | Supplier B | Supplier C | |
|---|---|---|---|
| As quoted | $4.60 per kg FOB | $2.75 per piece CIF | $2.45 per piece FOB |
| Spec quoted | 550 GSM, 70 x 140 | 550 GSM, 70 x 140 | 500 GSM, 68 x 136 |
| Per piece | $2.48 | $2.75 | $2.45 |
| Freight included | No | Yes | No |
| Matches your spec | Yes | Yes | No, lighter and smaller |
C looks cheapest but is quoting a towel with about 14 percent less cotton. A and B are the real comparison, and you need a freight figure to finish it.
Use a sheet
Our quote comparison sheet is on the cost per wash calculator page. For the talk that follows, read how to negotiate with Indian linen suppliers. To get a quote that states every one of these items, ask us.
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Written by
Dr Abin Babu
Founder & Chairman, Anabyn Global Ventures
Anabyn exports hotel and home linen from Kerala, India. These guides come from the questions buyers ask our desk. About the team
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