Specification checklist
Document capacity, voltage and phase, tolerances, installation needs, spares and training. A precise technical brief is essential.
Inspection questions
Discuss specialist testing, acceptance criteria and a recorded trial run. Visual inspection does not confirm production performance.
Transport considerations
Confirm lifting points, crating, packed weight and destination unloading arrangements before choosing freight.
Look beyond the product price.
Confirm unit price, packaging, sample and inspection charges, freight, duties and taxes, and local delivery. Quantity, packed dimensions, material and required documentation can change the total. There is no universal duty rate or delivery promise.
SOURCING NOTES
Machinery
Small production machines and workshop equipment
Before asking for a quote
- What measurable output and acceptance test define suitability?
- Who will arrange installation, training and maintenance?
- Are lifting, unloading, spares and power requirements documented?
Read the estimate in separate parts
- Product & packaging
- Confirm the exact model, variant quantities, unit basis and carton specification.
- Sourcing & inspection
- Ask which coordination tasks, sample costs and agreed checks are included or charged separately.
- Freight & handling
- Check packed weight and volume, chargeable basis, route and origin/destination handling.
- Duties, taxes & clearance
- Identify who confirms classification, required documents and item-specific applicable charges.
- Local delivery & exclusions
- Confirm the delivery scope, unloading arrangements, possible extras and quote validity.