Match the specification
Check that both quotes use the same size, paper, colour treatment, sides, cover and binding. Different specifications can produce very different totals.
Print quotation guideCompare the same job.
Compare the same job.
Then compare the price.
A per-page number is useful only when you know what it includes. A complete quote should describe the actual file, output, finishing, quantity and delivery requirement.
Pages, sheets and copies are different quantities.
A small example helps prevent a large misunderstanding.
Illustrative quantity calculation — no price implied
100 pages × 3 copies = 300 printed pages.
If printed double-sided, each copy uses 50 leaves, so three copies use 150 leaves before covers or any additional production requirements. Single-sided printing uses 100 leaves per copy. Describe the printed page count and print mode separately.
Write a quote brief that can be answered.
Content: final file, printed page count and any selected page ranges.
Output: finished dimensions, colour needs and single- or double-sided printing.
Materials: preferred paper and any cover specification.
Assembly: loose sets, binding or other requested finishing.
Quantity: complete copies, variants and any repeat-order pattern.
Destination: postcode, number of addresses and required receipt date.
Before choosing between two quotations…
Check the included work
Ask whether file preparation, a proof, finishing and packing are included or separately charged. Clarify any item that is not stated.
Compare the delivered total
Confirm delivery and applicable charges, the quotation’s validity and how a change to the file or quantity affects the price.
Keep the approved version
Retain the accepted quote with its specification and the final artwork reference. It gives both sides a clear basis for the order.
Ask for a specification-based quotation.
Attach the relevant details instead of only asking for a cost per page.