TKO Graphix Brandwire

The Lowest Bid Mistake

∞ posted 1 year ago in bidding Bidding Techniques Bid Planning

by Randy Clark

I was talking with Gary Meunier — one of our national account managers — about a bid we made to remove graphics from a fleet of vehicles, which a company was preparing to return at the end of a lease agreement. We did not install the graphics, but we are one of the few companies trained and prepared to properly remove the “bargain price” decals they had purchased. The company was surprised it would cost as much to remove the decals as what they paid to have them installed, because a cheaper material with a permanent adhesive had been used. It is difficult, labor intensive, and time consuming to remove such materials. The company did not know, at the time of purchase, the decals would need to be removed chemically or sanded off. These methods can cause so much surface damage that repainting is necessary; otherwise, the vehicle’s end-of-lease value is compromised.

My point is, take your time and do your research. The lowest bid is not necessarily the best. Also, consider it is just as cost-ineffective to use a material rated for five years on a vehicle that will be replaced in two years. Here are some additional points to consider:

·    How will this vehicle be used?
·    Is it for promotional purposes?
·    Is it for daily use?
·    Is it part of a fleet?
·    Is the vehicle owned or leased?
·    What is the lease agreement/obligations at the end of the lease?
·    How much time is the graphic needed for?
·    What will happen to the vehicles at the end of this time?

Hopefully, these points will help in getting the best value out of your latest projects and ventures. Please share your thoughts, as I’d love to hear of techniques you’ve used in negotiating your bids.