Why Total Cost Matters More Than a Supplier’s Unit PriceWhy Total Cost Matters More Than a Supplier’s Unit Price
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The Cheapest Supplier Isn't Always the Cheapest.
A supplier offers a 10% lower price.
Looks like an easy decision.
But the purchase price is only one part of the cost.
The cheaper supplier may also come with:
→ Higher shipping costs → Longer lead times → Larger minimum order quantities → More defective products → More inventory sitting in storage → More staff time spent resolving issues → Less flexible payment terms
For example:
Supplier A
Unit price: $10
Shipping: $1
Defect/replacement cost: $0.50
Average inventory cost: $0.50
True cost: $12/unit
Supplier B
Unit price: $11
Shipping: $0.60
Defect/replacement cost: $0.10
Average inventory cost: $0.20
True cost: $11.90/unit
Supplier B looks more expensive on the purchase order.
But it's actually cheaper for the business.
This is why procurement decisions shouldn't be based only on unit price.
A better question is:
“What is the total cost of using this supplier?”
When evaluating suppliers, look beyond price and consider:
• Logistics • Quality • Lead time • Payment terms • Minimum order quantity • Returns/replacements • Inventory holding costs • Administrative effort
The cheapest quote isn't necessarily the cheapest option.
Sometimes, paying slightly more upfront saves much more money later.
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