Define each product
List the item description, manufacturer part number if required, acceptable equivalents, and any safety or performance specifications. For chemicals, specify dilution, container size, and dispenser compatibility when relevant.
Make quantities comparable
Record units per case, size per unit, quantity of cases, and the total required quantity. A case price alone is not enough to compare suppliers with different pack sizes.
Document delivery conditions
Provide the delivery ZIP code, number of locations, required date, receiving hours, and unloading restrictions. Ask whether freight and other delivery charges are included.
Confirm purchasing requirements
Identify the purchasing method, quote deadline, required vendor documents, substitution approval process, and any applicable cooperative purchasing requirements.
Review before ordering
Confirm availability, lead time, freight, total price, payment terms, and quote expiration in writing before placing the order.
Prepared by McDowells Global Supply and Logistics LLC. Updated October 19, 2026.
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