Beyond Unit Price — What You Really Need to Know to Avoid Costly Surprises
By Yan Luo | Samtop Display
A low unit price on a quote means nothing if it leads to missed deadlines, unexpected logistics costs, or displays that don’t reflect your brand. These 10 questions will help you uncover risks, align expectations, and ensure your display project stays on track — from sampling to shipping.
You got a great quote. But two weeks later, sampling is late, cartons are unlabeled, and lighting was never included.
The most expensive mistake in custom display projects? Assuming everything is included. Factories may quote low but omit packaging, QC, even project management. And if you only ask about price — you’ll only get a product, not a process.
Ask the 10 questions that experienced brand teams use to vet vendors — and avoid timeline risk, cost surprises, and compliance issues.
🔍 1. “Can you provide technical drawings or engineering support?”
Look for:
.STEPor.IGS3D structural drawings- 2D print layer layouts
- Exploded assembly views
📌 Why ask?
If your vendor can’t convert a moodboard into technical specs, you’ll hit a wall at the sampling stage — or worse, the final product won't match your design intent.
🔍 2. “What materials and finishes will you use — and can I see real samples?”
Confirm they’ll send:
- Pantone-matched spray panels
- Swatches of acrylic, wood, metal
- Lighting modules or logo application samples
📌 Why ask?
Verbal descriptions like “metallic rose gold” are subjective. You need to see and touch materials before approving.
🔍 3. “What is your sample process — and what’s included?”
Clarify:
- Is it a full-function prototype or partial mock-up?
- Is video/photo approval possible?
- Are samples free, charged, or refundable?
📌 Why ask?
Sampling is where you align expectations. If it’s vague, so will your mass production.
🔍 4. “How long will each phase take — from design to shipping?”
Request a basic milestone plan:
- Quote: ~2–3 days
- Sampling: ~10–15 days
- Production: ~20–30 days
- Shipping: 3–5 days (air), 25–40 days (sea)
📌 Why ask?
A clear Gantt chart-style plan reduces confusion and helps coordinate internal brand and launch teams.
🔍 5. “Can you support multiple shipping destinations or store-level drop-off?”
Ask whether they can:
- Split shipments by region (e.g., EU/US/Asia)
- Offer EXW, FOB, or DDP shipping terms
- Label boxes with QR codes and install guides
📌 Why ask?
Great displays don’t matter if they can’t be delivered right. Global execution matters.
🔍 6. “What certifications or compliance documents can you provide?”
Based on your campaign location, you may need:
- REACH (EU)
- FSC (wood)
- UL/CE (lighting)
- UK Plastic Tax exemption
- Child-safe materials, fire rating
📌 Why ask?
If the supplier “doesn’t know,” they’re likely not experienced with global brand standards.
