How to Compare Headstone Quotes Side by Side
A simple checklist for comparing headstone quotes fairly — sizes, granite, finishes, engraving, foundation, permit, delivery, installation, taxes and warranty.
Two quotes can look very different simply because they include different things. Compare like with like.
Comparison checklist
| Item | Quote A | Quote B |
|---|---|---|
| Die size (W × T × H) | ||
| Base size | ||
| Granite name | ||
| Finish (P1/P2/P5, rock pitch) | ||
| Engraving included (lines/characters) | ||
| Symbols, etching, photo | ||
| Proof included | ||
| Cemetery permit | ||
| Foundation | ||
| Delivery | ||
| Installation | ||
| Taxes | ||
| Warranty | ||
| Lead time |
Watch for
- Thickness differences — 6" vs 8" changes price — see thickness.
- Granite substitutions — "black granite" isn't always the same stone.
- Cemetery fees — often separate from the dealer's price.
- Final-date engraving — later visits may cost extra.
See parts of a headstone for the terms.
A sample comparison table
| Item | Quote A | Quote B |
|---|---|---|
| Die size | ||
| Base size | ||
| Granite colour | ||
| Lettering | ||
| Artwork | ||
| Delivery | ||
| Installation | ||
| Foundation | ||
| Lead time |
Fill it in for each quote. Gaps show what's missing.
Spotting hidden costs
Quotes that look cheaper sometimes leave out:
- Foundation and setting fees.
- Delivery to the cemetery (not just to a depot).
- Additional lettering — names, dates or verses beyond a set count.
- Artwork — etchings, photos or custom symbols.
- Taxes and duties on imported granite.
Ask each supplier for a price "installed at my cemetery, all-in". See DAP delivery for how duties-included pricing works.
A simple comparison checklist
Line up quotes side by side with these headings:
| Item | Quote A | Quote B |
|---|---|---|
| Stone size & granite colour | ||
| Lettering & artwork | ||
| Foundation | ||
| Delivery & installation | ||
| Cemetery fees | ||
| Taxes | ||
| Warranty | ||
| Timeline |
Any blank cell is a question to ask. Comparing like for like stops a low headline price hiding extra charges later.
Key Takeaways
- Compare size, granite, finish and services line by line.
- Cemetery fees are often separate.
- Ask for the granite name, not just the colour.
Next Step
Get an itemised quote — request a quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do headstone quotes vary so much?
Differences in size, thickness, granite, finish, engraving and included services like foundation and installation.
Are cemetery fees included in headstone quotes?
Often not. Cemetery permit, foundation and installation fees may be separate — ask.
What should a headstone quote include?
Sizes, granite name, finish, engraving, proof, permit, foundation, delivery, installation, taxes and warranty.
What hidden costs appear in headstone quotes?
Foundation and setting fees, delivery to the cemetery, extra lettering, artwork, taxes and duties.
Ready to get pricing for your granite monument?
Request pricing, factory specifications, and DAP delivery timelines from our team.
