Guide
An answering-service quote request that makes offers comparable
Copy this request and send each provider the same volume, workflow and billing questions.
Prepare your numbers
Use a recent phone report to estimate monthly calls, average duration, expected transfers and the share that need booking. If a figure is unknown, say so and request a range. A precise-looking estimate built from guesses is less useful than an honest range.
Specify the software you already use, the record you need created and whether answering is for overflow, after-hours or every call. See the integration guide for the difference between a calendar event and a usable job record.
Copy this request
We are evaluating call answering for our contracting business. Our proposed scope is [coverage window and time zone]. We estimate [calls per month], [average minutes], and [transfers per month]. These figures are [measured or estimated].
We need [message capture, appointment requests, confirmed bookings, or staffed escalation]. Our existing scheduling system is [product and plan]. Please describe the exact integration and any work required from us.
Please quote the base fee, included usage and billing unit, overage rate, transfer charges, phone charges, setup cost, integration fees, minimum term and cancellation notice. Show a normal month and a month with twice the usage.
Please distinguish a transfer to our staff from a live agent supplied by you. Explain the fallback when a transfer or integration fails, and what records we can export when leaving.
Before purchase, we would like to run our test calls and inspect the resulting records. Please identify any requested behavior that is unavailable or requires a different plan.
Compare the responses line by line
Keep the original written quote and date next to your comparison. Mark unanswered questions as unresolved. Ask follow-up questions before turning an omitted fee into a zero in your budget.
Use the cost worksheet and break-even calculator to compare complete offers. Then use the demo checklist to determine whether the quoted workflow actually meets your requirements.
Prepared by Contractor Software HQ. Documentation research and editorial guidance; not a hands-on product test. Prices and features change — verify on the vendor's site before you buy.