Compare electronic locker-lock quotes by the complete installed configuration, not only the unit price. Two quotes can name the same family while covering different interfaces, rear mechanisms, accessories or installation work. A useful comparison identifies what each opening will receive and who is responsible for making it ready for use.
Give every supplier the same starting information
Use one project schedule for all quotes. Identify the number of openings, existing furniture, intended shared or assigned use, credential preference and any project-specific requirements. Attach representative front and rear photographs and note exceptions rather than describing the whole building as one standard locker.
If dimensions are missing, use the locker and cabinet measurement checklist before requesting a firm comparison. An allowance for unknown door preparation is not equivalent to a confirmed installation scope.
Separate the initial quantity from possible future phases. Ask suppliers to identify assumptions and exclusions so a lower total does not simply conceal work omitted from the response.
Compare configurations line by line
For each proposed lock, record these fields in the same order:
- Brand, family, generation and exact quoted configuration.
- Keypad, RFID or other documented user interface.
- Shared or assigned workflow and corresponding rear mechanism.
- Body orientation, finish, pull and mounting arrangement.
- Required management equipment and user accessories.
- Confirmed door fit and any preparation or strike work.
A family label alone does not answer those questions. For example, Axis documentation describes multiple interfaces and rear configurations. Likewise, Versa Mini identification must include generation and mounting details. Request a precise description instead of treating all versions as interchangeable.
Separate supply from installation and handoff
Ask whether each quotation covers hardware only or additional work. List removal of old hardware, door preparation, installation, programming, testing and staff handoff as separate responsibilities. A missing line should be clarified, not silently assumed to be included.
Confirm who supplies management credentials, batteries where required, any applicable mounting components and replacement user credentials. Ask what documentation will be delivered at completion and whether the installed configuration will be recorded by locker location.
If the proposal includes software or connected management, identify the exact platform and quoted services. Do not infer networked operation from the word “digital,” or assume a current cloud feature is available on legacy Numeris or NextLock hardware.
Build an ownership-cost worksheet without invented savings
Choose an evaluation period appropriate to your purchasing process. Add the quoted acquisition and installation scope, then list recurring or event-driven costs that actually apply: batteries, administrative time, replacement credentials, service visits and any explicitly quoted software charges.
Use your own maintenance records to estimate staff effort. Keep unknown values marked as unknown and test more than one plausible scenario. Do not enter an attractive savings percentage simply because a product is described as keyless.
Digilock’s current upgrade-planning guidance recommends considering operating and administration costs alongside purchase price. That principle does not establish the costs or capabilities of your particular installation.
Mechanical alternatives require a different worksheet. Mech is a mechanical family, so an electronic battery-service allowance should not be copied into its comparison. It still needs an appropriate installation and management plan.
Close the unanswered items before ordering
Summarize each open question and assign an owner. Confirm availability, delivery expectations, warranty terms, service arrangements and substitutions in the actual quotation. A catalog page or this planning guide is not a promise of stock, lead time or included services.
Send Digital Locks Online your project schedule for a quote inquiry. Include the existing family where known and ask for assumptions to be stated clearly so the response can be compared fairly.
Quote-comparison questions
Why can two quotes for the same family differ?
They may cover different interfaces, mechanisms, quantities, accessories or work. Compare the configuration and scope before concluding that the hardware itself is identically specified.
Are management keys always included?
Do not assume they are. Ask which management accessories are required for the exact configuration and which are included in the quoted quantity and price.
Should replacement and new-build projects use the same checklist?
Use the same comparison structure, but identify their different work. Retrofits require confirmation of existing preparation; new furniture needs coordinated lock and cabinet drawings.
Can a website provide a reliable project total?
Only a quotation addressing your actual requirements can define its scope. Product information alone does not establish installation work, availability or the final project cost.
