Price lists, estimates, quotations and tenders

Every business must give its customers prices for its products or services. There are several ways you can do this.

Many businesses, such as hairdressers, pubs and restaurants use a standardised price list that stays the same for every customer. Other businesses, such as mechanics, painters and decorators, have to provide tailored prices for the specific products or services a customer wants to buy. This is usually done with an estimate or a quotation. Businesses often price larger, more complicated projects through tender documents drawn up by the customer.

This guide helps you to prepare a price list, explains the difference between a quotation and an estimate and provides advice on how to win contracts at the right price.