The lowest unit price is useful only when the offers describe equivalent supply. Build a comparison before accepting a proposal.
Use one comparison sheet
- Supplier identity and quotation reference.
- Grade, standard, dimensions, condition and permitted deviations.
- Offered net quantity, unit and any quantity tolerance.
- Currency, unit price, minimum order and quotation expiry.
- Processing, packing, freight, insurance and other stated charges.
- Delivery rule, named place and dispatch or arrival window.
- Inspection, documents, payment terms and exclusions.
Calculate a comparable total
First convert quantities to a common unit. Multiply that quantity by the corresponding unit price, then add only the charges you have identified and allocated consistently. Record missing costs as unresolved; do not silently treat them as zero.
Keep a benchmark in context
LME reference prices support physical metal pricing. A physical offer may also include premiums and the commercial terms of the actual product and shipment. A benchmark observation is not itself a delivered offer.
Close the gaps before acceptance
Use the private deal room to ask about differences. Acceptance on MetalSite records agreement in principle. The parties arrange their final contract, inspection, payment and delivery directly.
See units and weight and delivery terms.
References
Reviewed and updated 31 October 2026.
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