Two supplier offers can show different totals because they price different work. One includes delivery; another leaves it out. One covers setup and support; another charges for them separately.
Start with the requirement. List the quantities, service period, delivery expectations, and work that must be included. Put each supplier's response alongside that list while preserving the original proposal.
Record differences without filling the gaps yourself
Mark each item as included, excluded, conditional, or unanswered. Keep optional work separate from the required scope. If an amount or assumption is missing, ask the supplier to clarify it in writing.
A common comparison format makes the differences easier to review. It should still show where information remains incomplete. Do not assign a price to an unanswered item and present that estimate as the supplier's offer.
Once the questions are answered, record the remaining tradeoffs and the buyer's priorities. Price, delivery timing, support, and terms need a decision in context.
See the quote-comparison example, then use quote comparison support if your offers need a documented review.
Use the same questions for each supplier
An illustrative comparison can start with a few plain questions: Does the quote include delivery to the required location? Is setup included? What support period is covered? Which taxes, fees, quantities, and assumptions appear in the offer? What happens if the requirement changes?
Send the questions that matter to each supplier, and preserve the replies with the offer they clarify. If one supplier has not answered, keep that item open in the comparison. A lower total with an unanswered delivery cost is not a complete comparison. The buyer should see that uncertainty before choosing.