01
Lock the same layout and measurement basis
A quotation based on preliminary plans should be identified as provisional. Confirm whether dimensions come from design drawings, buyer-provided site measurements or a supplier measurement service.
Count cabinets, panels, fillers, end panels, plinths and tall units consistently. A low total may omit components needed to complete the room.
- Use one drawing revision.
- State who owns final site measurement.
- List appliances and service clearances.
- Identify exposed panels, fillers and finishing pieces.
02
Compare material construction line by line
Terms such as plywood, MDF, MFC, lacquer and veneer are incomplete without grade, thickness, surface and application. Ask suppliers to state the construction of carcasses, backs, shelves, doors and visible panels separately.
The selected construction must suit the project design and destination requirements. VELA can organize supplier information but does not replace qualified local technical or compliance review.
| Quotation field | Questions to ask | Typical omission risk |
|---|---|---|
| Carcass | Substrate, thickness, surface and edge | Only door material is stated |
| Door and visible panels | Core, face material, finish and sheen | Side or end panels use a different finish |
| Back panels and shelves | Thickness, fixing and load basis | Reduced thickness is not disclosed |
| Hardware | Brand, model, quantity and function | Generic hinges replace specified hardware |
| Internal accessories | Drawers, baskets, organizers and lighting | Shown in rendering but excluded from price |
| Worktops and sinks | Material, thickness, cut-outs and installation | Quoted by another party without interface scope |
03
Normalize hardware, accessories and finish
Hardware can materially affect function and price. Require the exact model or performance description, not only a brand name. Confirm whether handles, profiles, drawer systems, lift mechanisms and organizers are included.
For veneer, paint, laminate or metal details, state the approval process and acceptable variation. Screen images should not be the only finish control.
04
Compare commercial and production terms
Check currency, taxes, trade term, packing, sample charges, drawing work, payment milestones, lead-time trigger and quotation validity. A quoted production period may not begin until drawings, samples and deposit are approved.
Separate supplier price from freight, duties, destination installation and local modification.
05
Require a deviation and exclusion schedule
The supplier should identify every departure from the requested specification and every task not included. This is more reliable than assuming silence means compliance.
Before deposit, connect the final quotation to the approved drawing and finish references. Changes after deposit should be recorded with cost and schedule impact.
Buyer questions
Frequently asked questions
Why do cabinet quotations vary so much?
Differences often come from layout scope, substrates, door finishes, hardware, internal accessories, worktops, packing and installation assumptions rather than supplier margin alone.
Is plywood always better than MDF or MFC?
No material is universally best. The choice depends on application, specification, finish, moisture exposure, structural needs, budget and applicable project requirements.
Should installation be included?
The quotation must state this clearly. Overseas installation, site adjustment and local trade coordination often require separate destination arrangements.
When should shop drawings be approved?
Approve the controlled shop-drawing revision before production and after key dimensions, appliances, materials, hardware and interfaces are resolved.
Can I compare quotations by price per linear metre?
Only as an early indicator. It can hide differences in tall units, drawers, accessories, finishes, hardware, panels and site conditions.