Is the lowest quoted price the best offer?

Not necessarily. It may omit scope or carry different lead times, delivery terms or qualifications. Compare a consistent basis and keep adjustments visible.

Can AI level supplier bids?

AI can help read the quotes, organise scope and price differences and draft questions. Check the original returns and agree the treatment of unresolved items with your team.

Supplier bid levelling checklist: free comparison tool

The checklist

Check items as you review

Use this checklist with the original tender scope, the issued supplier package and each return. Record adjustments separately from the supplier's quoted amount, and keep unresolved questions visible.

Common comparison basis

Issued package scope and drawing revisions are identified
Quantities, units and equipment ratings have been aligned
Currency, tax, delivery terms and quote validity are recorded
Alternatives are compared separately from the compliant base offer

Scope and technical differences

Equipment, installation, commissioning and tests are identified as included or excluded
Datasheets and departures have been checked against the specification
Documentation, spares and warranties are included in the comparison
Gaps between the quote, SLD and GA are recorded with source references

Commercial and delivery position

Lead time and delivery milestones fit the project program
Payment terms and proposed conditions are visible
Estimator allowances are separated from supplier-confirmed prices
Expired offers and unconfirmed adjustments are flagged

Clarifications and decision

Each material difference has a question, owner and response status
Supplier responses are linked to the quote and package version they amend
The final comparison retains the original quoted amounts and sources
Technical and commercial reviewers have checked the basis before selection

How to use it

Collect the same scope and each return
Use the issued package version and the suppliers' original quotes.
Align the comparison basis
Normalise units, currency, tax, delivery and validity without hiding the source amounts.
Identify exclusions and gaps
Record differences against the scope, drawings and required deliverables.
Resolve material questions
Ask suppliers for clarification and distinguish confirmed answers from estimating allowances.
Review the decision
Evaluate price, scope, technical compliance and delivery together.

Supplier bid levelling checklist

The checklist

How to use it

Collect the same scope and each return

Align the comparison basis

Identify exclusions and gaps

Resolve material questions

Review the decision

Related resources

Common questions

From tender files to levelled bids.