Supplier quote comparison matrix
Structure received supplier quotations line by line, so the lowest valid comparable price is visible without hiding the exceptions that need a buyer's review.
Compare supplier quotesWhat belongs in a quote comparison matrix
A useful matrix keeps the item identity, requested quantity and unit next to each supplier's received offer. It does not turn a blank price, a different currency, or a different unit into an artificial winner.
| Item / SKU | Description | Quantity | Unit | Supplier offer | Comparable unit price | Review status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SKU-100 | Valve | 20 | each | A: $9.20 · B: $10.00 | $9.20 — A | Valid; A wins |
| SKU-200 | Filter | 8 | box | A: $12.00 · B: $12.00 | $12.00 — tie | Valid; tied |
| SKU-300 | Seal | 50 | each | B: $1.80 | — | Single offer |
| SKU-400 | Cable | 100 | metre / foot | A: $2.00 · B: $0.70 | — | Unit mismatch — review |
Read the matrix before choosing a price
- Use an item code or SKU as the comparison key; keep descriptions as context when two files label an item differently.
- Compare only usable prices on the same unit and currency basis. Unit or currency mismatches need review, not a conversion guess.
- Keep ties, single-offer items, missing usable prices, and ambiguous or unresolved matches visible beside valid comparisons.
- When quantities are available, use them to interpret the basket: CostRift can calculate basket savings only where the comparison basis is valid.
When CostRift fits
Use CostRift after you have received supplier quotes as CSV or XLSX files. It compares prices by item, identifies the lowest valid comparable offer, ties and exceptions. It does not issue RFQs, invite suppliers, score quality or delivery, run approvals, manage tenders, or read PDF quotations. For a readiness sequence, use the supplier quote comparison checklist. For a manual spreadsheet method, see how to compare supplier quotes in Excel. The term often used in India is comparative statement of quotations.
Compare received quotes, item by item
Add each supplier's CSV or XLSX quote, map its item and price columns, and review valid prices and exceptions in one matrix.
Compare supplier quotes