How to choose a supplier for a government order
Public sector orders live and die on paperwork and dates. Before you appoint a supplier, ask for three things: proof of past delivery on a similar line item, a written lead time, and a named person who answers the phone.
A quote that is far below the rest is usually missing something. Check whether delivery, offloading and VAT are included. Check whether the item on the quote is the item on the specification, or a substitute with a similar name.
Keep the trail. A signed delivery note, a dated invoice and a short email confirming acceptance will settle almost any dispute months later. Suppliers who work with public institutions regularly will offer these without being asked.