Creating a quote should not be taken lightly, quite the contrary. Once signed, it is considered a contract binding the service provider, the seller, to the client. Of course, making a quote is not done just any way. It must include mandatory mentions. Today, we'll focus specifically on one of them: the date! So, why is it important to date your quotes and how long are they valid? What is the validity period of a signed quote? How to set it? To enlighten you, the entire Flexina team gives you some guidance.

Quote validity period: what's it for?

Once your quote is written, the countdown begins, did you know? Yes, the validity period of a quote is not indefinite. In fact, it primarily serves your client. Thanks to it, they can evaluate and compare the different offers available to them, all within a given timeframe. After that, it's up to them to accept or reject your proposal.

Another important point: according to case law, your quote is valid for three months. Why this duration? Simply because it's accepted as a reasonable reflection time. But once this period has passed, you're no longer committed and your offer is no longer valid. Of course, you can also choose the deadline that suits you best.

In any case, if your potential client comes back to you once the deadline has passed, it's your duty to modify the date of your quote, issue a new one or create a quote amendment.

• Also discover what a quote is for

Why is it important to date your quotes?

If you've been following us for a while on our blog, you know well that a quote or invoice isn't created just any way. Indeed, there are mandatory mentions not to be neglected. Among these, the date is no exception. Your quote must imperatively be dated, otherwise it will be considered null.

As we mentioned earlier, the validity period of a quote allows your client to begin a reflection process before signing it and thus validating it. After all, it's normal, because in the context of a long-term or complex project, your prospects have every interest in comparing different offers. That's why setting a date on your quote is very important. Otherwise, they might drag things out and you could wait forever. However, know that once your quote is signed, they can no longer contest your rates.

So yes, the mandatory mentions to include in your quote may seem quite complicated, especially if you're starting out as an independent. Fortunately, by using effective online invoicing software, everything is easier. Your quotes will be created professionally (with all necessary legal mentions), which will give you an edge over your competitors.

After all, we all prefer to entrust a project, a mission, to a competent and professional person, don't we? So, if your arguments are compelling and your quote is perfectly written, you'll considerably increase your chances of starting a new collaboration.

With our Premium invoicing software, you can create your quotes in a snap. And as you know: time saved is money earned, so what are you waiting for?

What is the validity period of a signed quote?

You must also indicate an estimate of the time needed to complete your mission. Again, it's up to you alone to make the decision. Of course, nothing prevents you from discussing it with your client to set a deadline that suits you both.

But remember that once signed, the quote binds both parties: the service provider (the seller) and the client. In this context, the seller is obligated to complete the mission on time. As for the client, they must pay for it at the end. You must understand that a signed quote truly acts as a contract, don't forget that.

Let's give a small example: imagine that a project exceeds the initially planned duration. In this case, know that your client must denounce the quote within 60 days maximum. If they wish, they can appeal to obtain late penalties or even request cancellation of the project. As you'll understand: it's therefore an important element that you cannot forget when drafting your quotes.

To edit your quotes like a pro and easily modify information, all in a few clicks, we recommend you come test our online invoicing software for 15 days. It's free and without commitment, so why wait?