How to prepare a bill of quantities that gets accurate quotes

A quote is only as good as the request behind it. When a line says "cement" or "cable", each supplier assumes something different, and you end up comparing prices for different products. A clear bill of quantities avoids that.

What every line needs

• Item and specification: grade, size, standard or model number. Name the standard your consultant requires.
• Quantity and unit: say whether you mean pieces, bags, metres, square metres or tons.
• Acceptable alternatives: if a brand is mandatory, say so. If equivalents are fine, say that too, because it widens the choice.

What suppliers need to know about delivery

• Location: the site address or a map pin.
• Date: when you need the materials, and whether delivery can be split into stages.
• Site access: truck size limits, unloading equipment and permitted hours. Heavy, chilled or hazardous materials need planning before ordering.

Compare quotes on the same basis

Before comparing totals, check that each quote covers the same specification, quantity and delivery terms. A lower price that excludes delivery or uses a different grade isn't really lower.

Sending it to BenaaLink

For project pricing or bulk quantities, email your bill of quantities to sourcing@benaalink.com. Our team matches it with suppliers on the platform and sends the quotes back to you.