Quotation vs proforma invoice
Quotations and proforma invoices both come before the sale, which is why they're often confused. The difference is purpose: a quotation is an offer to win the work, while a proforma invoice is a preliminary bill confirming an agreed order before final invoicing.
When to use each
- Quotation: early stage, to present price and win the job.
- Proforma invoice: order agreed, sent so the buyer can arrange payment or import documentation before the final invoice.