A Buyer’s Guide to Looking Beyond the Price Tag
By Yan Luo | Samtop Display
Table of Contents
Don’t just compare display supplier quotes by total cost. Look deeper into material grade, finish quality, structural logic, packaging, compliance, and sampling policies. Two similar-looking renders can hide major differences in durability, weight, lead time, and long-term value.
You’ve received three quotes for your custom display — and the prices are wildly different.
If you choose purely based on cost, you might get thin materials, no sampling, poor finish, or damaged units on arrival. A “cheap” quote can become expensive fast.
Use this guide to break down and evaluate quotes like a pro — ensuring you choose the supplier who delivers quality, clarity, and campaign success.
🧠 What Makes Display Quotes Vary?
| Factor | Why It Affects Cost |
|---|---|
| Material Grade | MDF vs. plywood vs. cast acrylic = different price + performance |
| Finish Type | Powder coat > matte paint > vinyl wrap |
| Structural Integrity | Reinforced base or brackets may cost more — and last longer |
| Packaging | Foam wrap + molded trays cost more, but prevent damage |
| Lighting/Power | IP-rated LEDs or branded drivers affect cost and compliance |
| Tooling or Molds | For custom forms — high upfront cost, lower unit price later |
| Setup Logic | Knock-down or tool-free builds cost more to design, less to install |
📋 Quote Comparison Checklist
| Quote Criteria | What to Ask | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Materials | Is it 12mm MDF, 5mm acrylic, or something else? | Lower-grade = warping, poor strength |
| Finish | Matte spray? UV print? Powder coating? | Finish defines look, durability, cleaning |
| Packaging | Foam + carton? Just poly bag? | Affects damage rate + unboxing impression |
| Tooling Fees | Is mold included or billed separately? | Unexpected cost if not listed |
| Sample Policy | Does it include physical mock-up or only rendering? | Key to avoiding costly surprises |
| Timeline | How many working days for sampling, production, shipping? | Impacts your campaign launch date |
| Compliance | Is it CE, UL, FSC, REACH certified? | Critical for retail approval and customs |
| QC Process | Are photo proofs provided before shipping? | Prevents alignment errors |
| Extra Services | Any 3D drawing, setup PDF, or live support included? | Adds clarity and reduces internal workload |
🔍 Real Case: 2 Quotes, 1 Big Difference
🟨 Client: US cosmetics brand
🟨 Display: Illuminated tester tray for Nordstrom stores
🟥 Quote A: $32/unit
🟩 Quote B: $48/unit
On the surface: same dimensions, same visual render. But…
| Category | Quote A | Quote B |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | 9mm MDF, no brace | 12mm MDF + hidden steel foot |
| Finish | Basic paint | Matte 2K lacquer, anti-fingerprint |
| Logo | Sticker decal | UV print, Pantone matched |
| Packaging | Bubble wrap | Molded pulp + foam tray |
| QC | No photos | 20-photo proof pack + video |
| Sample | Digital only | Real sample credited to PO |
✅ Result: Client chose Quote B — and avoided delays, damage claims, and reprints.
💬 FAQ (With Schema Markup)
Q: Why are some quotes half the price?
A: Likely using thinner material, less durable finishes, or skipping key services like sampling or packaging.
Q: Can I ask a supplier to price match another quote?
A: Yes — but clarify you’re comparing same materials, finishes, and deliverables.
Q: What’s more important — price or timeline?
A: Depends on your campaign. For flagship windows, quality + speed matter more than small savings.
🎯 Conclusion: Don’t Just Look at Price — Look at the Whole Picture
✔️ Check finish, structure, and packaging quality
✔️ Ask about sampling, revisions, and warranty
✔️ Compare apples to apples — not render to render
✔️ Choose partners who are transparent, strategic, and invested in your brand success
📩 Need Help Reviewing Multiple Supplier Quotes?
We help brands decode proposals, identify hidden risks, and build smarter sourcing strategies.
👉 Email: [email protected]
🌍 Visit: www.samtop.com
