Buyer guidance
How to compare a coatings quotation from a Korean supplier
A coatings quotation can look complete while leaving important assumptions open. One offer may describe a single topcoat; another may include a primer and a separate hardener. A lower unit price does not explain whether the two offers cover the same requirement.
Use this guide to prepare clarification questions for your supplier. It does not set CHENICS prices, minimum order quantities or delivery terms, and it is not a contract or legal opinion.
Start with the product identity
Ask for the exact product code, description, colour reference and finish. Match those identifiers to the technical documents being offered. If the quotation refers to an alternative to your current coating, ask what information the supplier used to propose it and what still needs to be evaluated on your substrate.
A sample approval and a commercial quotation answer different questions. Record both: what sample was evaluated, under what conditions, and which quoted product it corresponds to. Do not treat an attractive colour sample as evidence that every performance requirement has been met.
Make a comparison sheet
| Field | Question to send back | Why it belongs in the comparison |
|---|---|---|
| Product scope | Does the offer include the full requested coating system? | A topcoat-only offer may exclude other required materials |
| Quantity unit | Is the price per kg, litre, container or set? | Different units cannot be compared directly |
| Pack contents | Which components and pack sizes are included? | A set may contain more than one component |
| Samples | What sample quantity, cost and lead time are proposed? | Trial arrangements may differ from production supply |
| Delivery | What destination and delivery responsibility are assumed? | The headline product price may exclude other costs |
| Timing | Which approvals or payments start the lead time? | An unqualified number of days is ambiguous |
| Validity | Until when are the quoted conditions available? | An old quotation may need reconfirmation |
Keep technical and commercial questions connected
Before approving a first order, collect the product documents needed for your evaluation. Ask the supplier to identify the version supplied and the contact who can clarify an inconsistency. If the quotation and a document use different product codes, resolve the mismatch in writing.
For overseas deliveries, ask the supplier and your appointed logistics advisers which shipment details remain open. Product classification, route and destination may affect transport arrangements. This article does not determine those requirements or promise that a particular product can be shipped to every country.
A short clarification email
Thank you for the quotation. Please confirm the exact product codes, pack contents, price units and documents available for our evaluation. Please also identify the assumptions behind the quoted lead time and delivery cost. We will confirm our destination and trial quantity before requesting a revised offer.
Keep the revised quotation together with the answers. A useful comparison sheet should show unresolved items clearly; a blank field should not silently become an assumed agreement.
Related information
See CHENICS product categories for the published range. Product selection and the final supply conditions require a separate enquiry.