Foshan AMJ Windows and Doors Co., Ltd. Aluminum window quotations often look similar on the first page. The total price is clear, the quantity is listed and the supplier may mention Low-E glass or thermal break frames. The differences usually appear deeper in the quote.
One supplier may include screens, brackets and jobsite delivery. Another may exclude those items or price a lighter frame system. Both quotes can be based on the same window schedule and still represent a different product package.
Put Every Supplier on the Same Scope
Send each bidder the same window schedule, architectural drawings, glass requirements and installation details. Ask them to identify the drawing revision used for pricing.
The base quote should match the required project scope. Upgrades, alternates and optional items should be shown separately.
- Use the same window marks, sizes and quantities.
- Confirm whether dimensions are rough openings or actual frame sizes.
- Use the same glass, finish, hardware and screen requirements.
- State the delivery address and required shipment sequence.
- Require each supplier to list assumptions and exclusions.
What to Compare Line by Line
| Quote Item | What to Check | Typical Problem |
|---|---|---|
| Window Type | Fixed, casement, awning, sliding, hung or combination window. | A fixed unit is quoted where the drawings require an operable window. |
| Size and Quantity | Width, height, quantity, handing and panel layout for each window mark. | Several sizes are grouped together without showing the actual dimensions. |
| Frame System | Thermal break or non-thermal aluminum, system depth and proposed application. | The quote says only “aluminum window” without identifying the system. |
| Glass | Glass thickness, Low-E coating, spacer, argon, tempering, lamination and tint. | The quote lists only “double glass.” |
| Performance | U-Factor, SHGC, design pressure and any required test documentation. | The attached report covers a different size or configuration. |
| Hardware and Screens | Handles, locks, hinges, rollers, operators and screen type. | “Standard hardware” is listed without details, or screens are excluded. |
| Installation Accessories | Nail fins, brackets, subframes, couplers, trim and fasteners. | The quoted frame does not match the wall detail. |
| Packaging and Delivery | Protection method, labels, destination, unloading and delivery phase. | “Shipping included” is shown without stating where the supplier’s responsibility ends. |
| Lead Time and Warranty | Approval time, production time, transit time, coverage and exclusions. | The lead time starts only after final approval, but that condition is not clear. |
Why the Lowest Quote May Not Be the Lowest Cost
Frame system: A non-thermal aluminum frame should not be compared directly with a thermal break aluminum window. They are different products with different performance and cost.
Glass: Low-E coatings, tempered glass, laminated glass and thicker insulated glass units can change the price quickly. Check the full glass makeup by window mark.
Missing accessories: Screens, brackets, mullion connectors and trim may look like small items, but they often become expensive and urgent when they are missing during installation.
Freight: Factory pickup, port delivery, warehouse delivery and jobsite delivery are not the same. Compare the total landed cost, including packaging, freight, customs, unloading and site handling.
Final Check Before Awarding the Order
- All suppliers used the same drawing and window schedule revision.
- Window types, sizes, quantities and handing match.
- The frame system and glass makeup are clearly identified.
- Hardware, screens and installation accessories are included.
- Performance documents apply to the quoted product.
- Packaging, freight, delivery and unloading are clearly separated.
- Lead time, warranty, payment terms and exclusions are written clearly.
Why do aluminum window quotes vary so much? Suppliers may be pricing different frame systems, glass, hardware, accessories, packaging or delivery terms.
Should builders choose the lowest quote? Only when the lowest quote includes the same scope and meets the same project requirements.
What should be sent for an accurate quote? Send the current window schedule, drawings, glass requirements, performance criteria, finish, hardware, screens, installation details and delivery location.
What is the best way to compare freight? Ask each supplier to state exactly where delivery ends and who is responsible for customs, unloading and final site handling.
Need a clear aluminum window quotation?
AMJ works with builders, contractors, developers, dealers and importers on custom aluminum window projects. Send the window schedule, BOQ or drawings for a quotation with clear options, assumptions and exclusions.
View custom aluminum window systems | Request a project quote