Other than price, what should a buyer consider when evaluating supplier quotations?

When evaluating quotations, responsible buyers must look beyond headline price. Lead times (1) affect operational continuity. Add-on costs (2) (e.g., packaging, delivery, handling) can significantly change total cost. Past performance (4) demonstrates reliability and quality, crucial for ethical and sustainable sourcing. Wastage rates (3) may be relevant but are typically assessed in performance monitoring, not initial quotation evaluation. This holistic view aligns with the total cost of ownership (TCO) approach promoted by CIPS, ensuring procurement decisions account for both direct and indirect impacts.