Guide

How to Write a Professional Quote: Complete Guide 2026

2026-01-102 min read

A professional quote wins work because it's easy to understand and easy to accept. Follow these steps.

1. Start with the client's problem

Restate what they asked for in one or two lines. It shows you listened and frames everything that follows.

2. Break the work into line items

Show each task or product with a quantity and rate. Itemised quotes are trusted more than a single figure and let clients adjust scope instead of walking away.

3. Be explicit about what's excluded

Exclusions prevent most disputes: permits, making good, disposal, content, travel. If it isn't in the quote, say so.

4. Show tax correctly

If you're registered, show the subtotal, tax and total. Consumers should see the tax-inclusive price clearly.

5. Add terms

Include validity (30 days is common), start date and duration, deposit and payment schedule, and how changes are priced.

6. Make accepting easy

End with one clear action: "Reply 'accepted' to book your start date." See our quote acceptance wording.

7. Send it fast and follow up

Send within a day, then follow up after a few days. See how to send a quote to a client.

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