Why one price per square metre is misleading
Prefab house quotations can look comparable while covering very different products. Floor area alone does not show the steel design, insulation, façade, windows, internal finishes, electrical work, plumbing, packing or installation responsibility included in the price.
A useful comparison starts with a written scope matrix. Every supplier should state what is included, excluded and assumed so the buyer can compare complete delivered solutions rather than headline figures.
Define the structural and climate criteria
The destination determines wind, snow, seismic, corrosion and thermal requirements. These inputs affect steel member sizes, bracing, connections, roof geometry, insulation thickness and opening details. A quotation prepared without the project location is only a preliminary budget.
Ask whether structural calculations and production drawings are included, which design standard will be used and who is responsible for local approval.
- Project country, city and site exposure
- Required design codes and approval route
- Wind, snow and seismic criteria
- Target wall, roof and floor performance
Compare the finish and service scope
An economical panelised house may use standard cement-board or insulated-panel façades, PVC windows and a limited interior finish range. An upgraded LGS house can accept architectural cladding, larger openings, more insulation layers and higher-value interiors, but the engineering and site work are different.
Confirm doors, glazing, flooring, sanitary fixtures, kitchen scope, electrical standard, HVAC provisions and external service connections line by line.
Calculate the delivered project cost
The factory price is only one part of an export project. Packing method, inland transport, sea freight, import charges, unloading, foundations, crane use, local labour, accommodation for supervisors and final utility connections may all sit outside the supplier quotation.
The lowest EXW price is not automatically the lowest installed cost. Flat-pack supply can reduce freight volume, while factory-complete modules may reduce site labour and weather exposure.
Information needed for a reliable quotation
Send the delivery location, required floor area, room schedule, number of storeys, preferred appearance, insulation target, service scope and intended completion date. Drawings are helpful but not essential at the first stage; a clear brief allows the supplier to identify missing decisions before pricing.