Quote vs Estimate – What's the Difference?
Understand the key differences between a quote and an estimate, and when to use each for your UK small business.
Table of Contents
What is a quote?
A quote is a fixed price offer. Once the customer accepts, you are legally bound to deliver the work at the quoted price. A quote protects the customer by guaranteeing the cost.
Quotes are best for jobs where you know the scope and can accurately predict the cost — for example, a service with a fixed price or a product with known materials.
What is an estimate?
An estimate is an approximate price based on the information available. It is not binding — the final price may be higher or lower depending on what the job actually involves.
Estimates are best for jobs where the scope is uncertain or may change — for example, repair work where you cannot assess the full extent of the problem until you start.
Which should you use?
Use a quote when you are confident about the scope and want to give the customer certainty on price. Use an estimate when the scope is uncertain and you need flexibility.
Always make it clear whether you are sending a quote or an estimate. Sending an estimate labelled as a quote can lead to disputes if the final price is higher than expected.
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