1. Define the commercial and technical requirement
Start with destination market, use case, annual quantity, target retail position, payload, speed, range and battery preference. Add branding, packaging, certification and spare-parts expectations before asking for price.
2. Compare a complete quotation
A useful quotation identifies the exact model, component configuration, unit price, MOQ, sample cost, tooling or setup charges, production lead time, trade term and quotation validity. Do not compare prices until configurations are aligned.
3. Build and approve a sample
Use the sample to confirm ride behavior, range assumptions, finish, branding, packaging and documentation. Record every approved item in a signed specification or golden-sample checklist.
4. Lock the contract and production baseline
- Final specification and approved color references
- Quantity by model and color
- Packaging and carton markings
- Inspection standard and acceptable tolerances
- Payment milestones and delivery term
- Required shipping and compliance documents
- Spare-parts package and warranty handling
5. Inspect production and shipment
Agree on incoming-component checks, assembly checkpoints and final inspection. Before balance payment or shipment, review inspection results, product photos, packing list and required export documents.
What determines lead time?
Existing models with standard components are normally faster than custom paint, component changes or new frame development. The written quotation should separate sample time, production time and shipping time.