Buyer tool
Packaging Quote Comparator
Two quotes that don’t look comparable? Normalize the defensible numbers here, then review the specification and commercial terms separately.
| Normalized measure | Supplier A | Supplier B |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per M | $28.00 | $30.00 |
| Cost per impression / piece | $0.028 | $0.03 |
| Initial order cost | $7,000.00 | $8,400.00 |
| Reorder cost | $7,000.00 | $7,500.00 |
| Estimated year-1 cost | $28,000.00 | $30,900.00 |
| Recurring annual cost | $28,000.00 | $30,000.00 |
A meaningful break-even point is not available from these entries because the fixed and variable cost differences do not cross above zero.
Compare separately
Lead timeMOQPrint constructionTooling ownershipStocking / inventoryFreight termsSpecificationsThis worksheet separates material, initial, recurring, freight, and annualized costs. It does not decide that one supplier is better.
When to use it
Use it when Supplier A and Supplier B quote in different price bases or separate tooling, setup, freight, and recurring charges differently.
What you need
- Quantity and quantity unit
- Total, $/M, or $/piece price basis
- Initial and recurring charges
- Orders per year and SKU count
Formula
year-one cost = recurring order cost × orders per year + initial chargesWorked example
A lower $/M can still produce a higher first-year total when plate, setup, freight, and order cadence are included.
Common mistakes
- Comparing non-equivalent specifications
- Treating tooling ownership as a number only
- Ignoring MOQ, lead time, freight terms, or stocking expectations
Buyer questions
Does the lower year-one cost mean that supplier is better?
No. It only compares entered numbers. Specifications, lead time, ownership, quality systems, service, and operating fit still require separate review.
What does break-even volume mean here?
It is the quantity where entered fixed- and variable-cost differences cross. It is useful only when the normalized quote bases and specifications are actually comparable.