Send each supplier the same dimensioned brief and compare a line-by-line scope, not only the total or price per square metre. Resolve differences in roof function, module layout, accessories, documentation, packing and delivery responsibilities before deciding which quotation offers better value.
Create one reference brief for all suppliers
Give the quotation a revision number and include dimensions, quantity, location, installation arrangement and intended use. List the roof operation, finish, accessories and restricted post zones. If you change the brief during discussions, issue the same revision to every supplier before comparing totals.
A supplier may propose a different module arrangement for the same area. Ask for a drawing showing the change and its implications for post count, drainage and installation. Do not compare one large module with two connected modules without checking what the customer will actually receive.
Match product function before material claims
A rotating-louver roof and a folding retractable roof address different priorities. Compare the actual operation and opening, not the word motorized alone. Likewise, profile dimensions are only one part of the assembly; material descriptions cannot by themselves prove suitability for your project exposure.
Request the technical documents relevant to the offered configuration. JY Home Shade has CE documentation available; ask for its applicable scope and matching product references. A logo in a quotation is not a substitute for examining the relevant documents or checking destination requirements with the responsible local parties.
Identify costs hidden outside the supply line
Separate product, accessories, packing, transport and site work. Ask which party handles each delivery stage and which charges remain to be confirmed. Use a forwarder or relevant local adviser to clarify destination-specific charges rather than treating a general shipping estimate as a guaranteed final landed cost.
For dealer comparisons, record currency and quotation validity as well as payment milestones. Do not publish or promise a retail margin based on an incomplete factory quote. Installation, local service and unresolved project work affect the commercial outcome.
Close open questions before selecting a supplier
Keep an open-item list beside the comparison. Typical gaps include unspecified motor references, accessory quantities, incomplete packing details, missing drawings and unclear service responsibilities. Ask for written confirmation rather than silently assuming the favourable interpretation.
JY Home Shade starts from one set and typically quotes a 20-25 day production window after confirmation. Compare that production window with the same milestone from other suppliers, then add logistics and local installation to your project schedule. Check spare-parts arrangements separately; they are not established by the main order lead time.
Before you commit
| Decision area | Information to confirm |
|---|---|
| Configuration | Same drawing revision, clear size, post layout and roof operation. |
| Accessories | Itemized screens, glass, lights, controls and quantities. |
| Evidence | Relevant drawings and documents matching the proposed product. |
| Delivery | Packing, responsibilities, destination and unresolved charges. |
| Service | Parts, labour, freight and claim process defined in writing. |
How do I compare a quote with missing items?
Mark every scope item as included, excluded or awaiting confirmation. A blank line is an unresolved cost, not a zero-cost item. Keep optional upgrades separate from the configuration you asked every supplier to price.
- Roof and frame: record the proposed model, roof movement, module arrangement and drawing revision.
- Accessories: match each screen or glass opening, lighting item and control to the same quantities.
- Delivery: ask for the named destination, included delivery stages and charges requiring a separate estimate.
- Local work: identify who prices foundations, installation, electrical connections and any required local approvals.
- Service: distinguish replacement components from labour, access equipment and replacement freight.
Illustrative comparison: if Quote A includes roof lighting and Quote B omits it, request a matched revision or price that item separately. Do not label either supplier cheaper until the requested scopes align. This example describes a comparison method, not an actual offer or project.
For the initial brief, use the pergola RFQ checklist. If one offer includes local installation and the other is supply-only, compare the factory supply and installed-package responsibilities before reviewing the total.
Your next-step checklist
- Issue one numbered project brief to every supplier.
- Mark each quotation line as matched, different or unresolved.
- Request revised totals after correcting scope differences.
- Compare the delivery milestone and service scope before accepting.
Questions buyers ask
Is price per square metre enough to compare pergolas?
No. Frame layout, roof function, accessories, support work and delivery scope can differ for the same covered area. Use an itemized comparison tied to a drawing.
Can I compare a retractable roof with a louvered roof?
You can compare them as alternatives for a customer need, but label the functional difference. They are not identical specifications just because both are motorized.
A message you can send us
Please quote revision [number] of the attached brief for [quantity/location]. Itemize the roof system, accessories, packing and delivery scope, identify exclusions, and list documents and after-sales responsibilities.
Attach available drawings or photographs and identify any details that are still undecided. We can use the brief to clarify the proposed product and the information needed for quotation.
Next planning step
How to Compare Pergola Warranties Before Buying: Compare pergola warranty scope for the structure, finish, motor, accessories, labour and claim process instead of one headline duration.
Discuss your project or dealer plan
Send the brief above with your location and quantity.
Open the quotation form →