What Should I Check When Comparing Light Steel Villa Quotations from China? | ESS Prefab Home

Normalise the Scope First

Start by putting every quotation into the same inclusion table. Most price gaps disappear once the scope is aligned.

• List what each supplier includes versus excludes, item by item
• Convert all prices to the same Incoterm, usually FOB versus CIF
• Confirm whether doors, windows, insulation and cladding are inside the price
• Check whether erection drawings and a packing list are included or charged extra

Compare the Steel and Envelope Specification

The frame and envelope are where hidden savings are made. Ask for values in writing.

• Steel yield strength and base metal thickness, not just the profile name
• Zinc coating mass per square metre and the corrosion environment it suits
• Wall and roof panel build-up: sheathing, cavity, insulation, vapour barrier
• Window and door type, glazing and hardware brand

Check Terms, Lead Time and After-Sales

Commercial terms decide what happens when something goes wrong, which is when they matter.

• Production lead time counted from drawing approval, not from deposit
• Delay liability, inspection rights and documentation responsibilities
• Warranty length and what it actually covers
• Spare parts and how replacements for damaged components are shipped

Frequently Asked Questions

Why can two quotations for the same villa differ by 30 percent?

Usually because of steel thickness, zinc coating, panel build-up or an incomplete scope. Once those four are normalised the gap normally narrows sharply.

Should I ask for FOB or CIF prices?

Ask for both. FOB shows the ex-works plus port cost, CIF shows the landed port cost; comparing one against the other hides freight differences.

Is a lower steel thickness acceptable?

Only if the engineer confirms it for your wind and snow loads. Reducing thickness without recalculating the bracing and connections is a structural risk.