Comparing road-freight quotations
Compare freight quotations on equal terms: currency, included services, waiting costs, handling and payment.
Use the same comparison basis
Two freight prices are comparable only when route, vehicle, weight, timing and included services match. Ask whether the amount applies to one vehicle or the entire shipment and how long the quotation remains valid. Record excluded services beside the quoted price.
Questions for each quotation
Confirm the exact start and end points, loading and unloading equipment, when waiting charges begin, the calculation basis, payment timing and recipient. If currencies differ, agree a conversion source and calculation time; the settlement rate may differ from a rate shown on a website.
Illustrative cost comparison
Quote A is 1,000 units plus an agreed additional cost of 150 units. Quote B is 1,100 units including the same service. Comparable totals are 1,150 and 1,100. These are teaching figures, not current prices. Incoterms allocate costs, risk and obligations between buyer and seller; the freight amount alone does not explain that allocation.
Before acceptance
Check who has authority to agree, confirm the vehicle and loading time, clarify exclusions in writing and keep the accepted version. Notify the counterpart before confirmation if the cargo or route changes.