How to Compare Indoor Playground Quotes from Different Suppliers

If you have asked several suppliers of indoor playgrounds for offers (quotes) for your project(s) based on the same floor plan, you may have already noticed that prices offered by different suppliers can differ greatly even after you have specified all the requirements of your project in detail.

A quote for an Indoor Playground could look very different from one supplier to supplier. First of all, a quote for an Indoor Playground with the same floor plan can be up to 100% different in price depending on the supplier chosen. Then there is the service that is included with the quote. Is the supplier including the installation of the play equipment, or is this an extra charge. Is the design of the playground customized to your requirements, or is it a standard design.

Indoor Playgrounds and Indoor Play Equipment Projects are typically customized projects for Commercial Use such as Hotels, Hospitals, Kid's play Centers, Museums, etc. Each supplier would interpret buyer's requirements in their own way, supply projects using different materials, follow different manufacturing standards, and even offer different services within their quotation.

Comparing only the final price of different quotes can lead to the worst of both worlds: overpaying for a product with high additional costs for services, and underpaying for a product without any added services.

Compare Indoor Playground Quotes for Fairness and Value. When getting quotes from various suppliers for a commercial indoor playground, it is very important not only to compare the price of the final proposed project but also to compare the entire scope of work and make sure that two suppliers who are quoting out the same square footage can in fact provide the same quality product and service to you and your customers.

When comparing indoor playground quotes, focus on the complete scope of the project and not the square meter price. A professional quotation will clearly explain and lay out the design proposal, the equipment, materials, and safety considerations of the indoor playground, as well as the shipping and installation details, warranty, and after-sales service offered by the supplier. Two suppliers may quote out the exact same square meter price for the same size playground but supply two vastly different products and services to the buyer.

Why Indoor Playground Quotes Are Often So Different

Maybe you have already requested indoor playground quotes from several suppliers and noticed a huge price difference. We all know that there is a huge difference in price for the same product on the market.

Why Isn't There a Standard Price for Indoor Playgrounds?

A number of factors influence the price of Indoor Playground Quotations over and above the square metres of Soft Play required for a quoted indoor playground area.

Indoor playgrounds are custom-built commercial projects for a specific location and business model. The floor plan, ceiling height, target age group, theme, and activities of play are key factors in the scope of any project for commercial indoor playground equipment.

The reasons for big differences in prices of indoor playgrounds, for example, a commercial soft play area for kids, are based on a lot of different things. Small changes in design, for example, can lead to big changes in costs for materials, manufacturing, and the installation on site.

How Can Two Suppliers Quote the Same Space but Charge Different Prices?

Two suppliers with the same floor plan – will have two completely different offers in terms of price and scope. One will simply be to supply a basic soft play structure, and the other could include such items as Toddler Zones, slides, ball pools, climbing walls, mazes and role play, as well as custom designs, theming and support with installation.

Key differences between the indoor playground equipment, materials and services proposed by suppliers offer will account for the large differences in quotes for similar-sized floor plans. Simply comparing ‘like for like’ based on the final number alone is rarely sufficient to make an informed decision.

What Might Be Included in One Quote but Not Another?

A quote may include much more than the play structure itself. Some suppliers include design services, shipping support, installation guidance, warranty coverage, and after-sales assistance, while others do not.

For example, one supplier may provide a quote for a 3,000 sq. ft. Indoor Playground with a basic Soft Play Structure for children. Another supplier may provide a quote for the same-sized play area with a Toddler Zone, Slides, Ball Pool, Climbing Features, Role-play Activities, Custom Theming and more. Both Indoor Playgrounds are designed for the same amount of floor space but have very different scopes of work.

Why Should Buyers Compare Scope Instead of Price?

To compare the prices of indoor playgrounds properly, one must also compare what suppliers are offering for the same price. A low price may not always be the best offer, since it might lack important services. A higher price can include services that help save money and reduce risks in the long run for the customer.

Start by Comparing the Design Scope

Before comparing prices of indoor playground equipment, compare the design scope of the quotations. A supplier of indoor playground equipment for commercial use should write up a quotation on the basis of a clear design plan for the indoor playground, a 3D design, or a detailed proposal for the required equipment.

A quote without a design plan is not a good basis for comparison. A design plan defines equipment, materials, capacity, safety features, and overall cost of the project.

Are All Suppliers Working From the Same Floor Plan?

One of  the main reasons that quotes can vary so much is that all suppliers are working from different information. It is essential to check that all suppliers are working from the exact same floor plan, with the exact same project details and the exact same ceiling height.

Even small discrepancies in site plans can drastically change the resulting playground design, the choice of equipment and materials, as well as the investment required. Comparing quotes is only fair when all suppliers have been provided with the same project data.

Is the Quote Including a 2D Layout or 3D Design?

A professional commercial playground quote should also include a 2D or 3D design plan for showing how all of the play equipment will actually fit into a space. If all of the suppliers have been working from the same floor plan and ceiling height with full knowledge of the project's requirements, then you can compare quotes for a commercial playground based on their design for the space.

Even by comparing the numbers in a quote, it is usually not possible to tell whether two offers for supplying a commercial playground are for basically similar structures. Without drawings, the buyer has no way of knowing what he will be getting.

How Much of the Space Is Actually Being Used for Play?

The total floor area does not show the complete picture. Two suppliers can be quoting for the same size building but using vastly different amounts of floor space for play.

Review the actual equipment footprint, play area coverage, and number of play levels. A larger and more efficient play structure may justify a higher investment if it improves capacity and guest experience.

Does the Design Serve the Right Age Groups?

Not every Indoor Playground is for every age group. There are designed specifically for toddlers and younger children, whilst others are for the older child and mixed-age group families.

Note the entrance and exit points, the emergency routes, the areas for supervision of children, and the sightlines for parents and caregivers, as these aspects are crucial for the operation of the indoor playground on a daily basis, for the planning and organization of the staff, for the experience of the customers, and for the safety management.

Compare the Equipment List Item by Item

The scope of  the design for the playground has a major impact on every aspect of the project development, including the amount of equipment, structural requirements, most commonly used materials for the soft play, and other elements, as well as the complexity of installation and the size and number of kids that can play at any given time in the facility.

Does the Quote Clearly List All Major Play Components?

A professional quote for an indoor playground will detail out the list of equipment for the buyer to review prior to signing a contract. This list of equipment includes soft play pieces, slides, ball pools, climbing walls, rope bridges, trampolines, ninja courses, and toddler zones. Also included are role-play houses, interactive play pieces, flooring systems, and safety padding for the play equipment.

Are You Comparing the Same Attractions?

Two quotes for an indoor playground may look similar, but really be very different, with one supplier including multiple slides, climbing elements, and more interactive items than another. The playground can consist of a basic play structure and thus be described as a small indoor playground, whereas another of a similar size can contain many more attractions.

Are Quantities and Dimensions Clearly Defined?

In general, the quantity and type of attractions and play equipment within an indoor playground is what will provide the greatest experience for the users, and in turn the greatest value to the buyer for the project. Comparing two quotes of seemingly similar size can lead to vastly different experiences for users and, in turn, vastly different values for the buyer. This is why it is very important for the buyer to compare the quantity and range of play equipment detailed within the quotes to ensure that they are receiving the best value for their investment.

Where Is the Equipment Located Within the Design?

A detailed equipment list will explain how many of a certain item of soft play equipment there are and how much space each unit takes up in the playground. A ball pool, for example, will be quoted for a certain size and in a certain location within the soft play area. It is also important to read the equipment list for all the major items of soft play furniture to ensure that you are getting the best value for money from your indoor playground quote.

Review Materials and Manufacturing Quality

When evaluating potential suppliers to manufacture and supply your playgrounds for many years to come, we would encourage you to focus on the materials that will be used in your playgrounds as well as the standard manufacturing process that will be used to produce your playgrounds.

Steel Pipe Thickness and Anti-Rust Treatment

Ask about the steel pipe thickness and anti-rust coating finish that has been applied. You don’t want your steel to rust quickly, as it will weaken and deteriorate over time. Outdoor installations or installations in humid environments can be particularly prone to corrosion.

Platform Strength and Load-Bearing Capacity

Confirm the amount of weight the structure is intended for and whether load tests have been conducted to confirm that the structure will not deform over time and compromise user safety.

Foam Density

The density of protective foam is critical to the function and life of that item. The higher the density of the foam, the better it will absorb impacts before collapsing to form a solid barrier to stop further damage. Low-density foam deteriorates quickly and rapidly loses safety performance.

PVC or Vinyl Cover Quality

Check the thickness and quality of the PVC or vinyl used for the covers. Higher quality covers will resist tearing, fading, and cracking. These are key issues that can cause problems for outdoor play equipment that is exposed to the sun and frequently washed.

Fire-Retardant Performance

For indoor playgrounds, we recommend that all the softfall and playground equipment used is fire-retardant. This is particularly important for Indoor Playgrounds located in shopping centers, hotels, and other commercial areas where there are a large number of visitors.

Netting Strength

We recommend a net that is woven tightly together, can hold its shape, and won’t start to stretch or fray after use. This is important as if the netting does start to fail, it will ultimately collapse, leaving the children unprotected by the safety barrier.

Plastic Slide Material

What type of plastic is used for the slide(s) and other molded components, such as handrails and ladder rungs? A high-quality plastic will be smooth and resistant to cracks and other damage.

Edge Protection and Padding Quality

Look for thick padding that is well attached to all edges and impacted surfaces. The better the padding is attached, the better it will last and protect kids from injury.

Check Safety Standards and Compliance

We provide a preliminary safety plan for your indoor playground before we can put in an order for you.

Safety considerations influence:

• Design layout
• Equipment spacing
• Fall zones
• Padding requirements
• Visibility
• Maintenance access
• Age-group separation

When ordering indoor playgrounds for commercial use in the USA, it is also important for the buyer to know about the safety aspects that the supplier has incorporated in the design of the playground in relation to the required ASTM standards. The buyer should also ask for material test reports. The buyer should also find out from the supplier if the supplier is aware of the special requirements for commercial use and if the supplier can supply documentation upon request.

Questions to ask include:

• What safety standards were considered during design?
• Are material test reports available?
• Can the supplier provide documentation upon request?
• Does the supplier understand commercial operation requirements?

Most notably, requirements may vary by location, and the buyer must involve local inspectors, building authorities, insurance companies, and/or the project’s consultants to understand specific safety requirements.

Understand What Is Included in Shipping and Delivery

The shipping terms can greatly affect the overall cost of your project.

A quote that appears to be lower can actually result in higher costs for you when you factor in the full scope of work and add the cost of transportation.

Ask suppliers:

Is ocean freight included?

What shipping term is being used?

Is customs clearance included?

Are import duties included?

Is local delivery included?

How will equipment be packaged?

What happens if parts arrive damaged?

Below is an example of common international shipping terms used by indoor playground manufacturers:

• FOB (Free on Board)
• CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight)
• DDP (Delivered Duty Paid)

Many suppliers will use shipping terms that the buyer is not familiar with, so the buyer must ask the supplier to clearly outline the responsibilities of the supplier for each component of the total quote.

Compare Installation Support

Before placing an order, ask:

• Are installation drawings provided?
• Are components clearly labeled?
• Are installation videos available?
• Is remote support available?
• Can an installation supervisor be provided?
• Who supplies local labor?
• Who supplies equipment such as forklifts or lifts?
• How long is installation expected to take?

Poor installation planning can result in:

• Project delays
• Increased labor expenses
• Rework costs
• Safety concerns

Look Beyond the Initial Price: Warranty and After-Sales Service

A supplier relationship does not end when equipment is delivered.

Review:

• Warranty period
• Warranty coverage
• Exclusions
• Spare parts availability
• Technical support process
• Response times
• Maintenance guidance
• Future expansion options

Identify Hidden Costs in an Indoor Playground Quote

A lower price for equipment can end up being more expensive when all costs of shipping and import are not clearly spelled out.

Potential hidden costs include:

• Design revision fees
• Ocean freight
• Customs duties
• Local delivery
• Installation labor
• Equipment rental
• Flooring systems
• Fire safety modifications
• Additional protective padding
• Replacement parts
• Ongoing maintenance
• Permit-related expenses
• Inspection-related costs

Commercial indoor playground equipment undergoes a lot of daily use; thus, strong support from the supplier is crucial after the sales and delivery of the equipment.

The relationship with the supplier does not end once the playground equipment has been delivered. A higher first cost might mean better long-term value for stronger after-sales support and for easier to get replacement parts.

Some costs will not be clearly shown in the initial quotation.

It is also important to remember that the supplier may be charging to cover project costs that were not included in the initial quote. It is up to the buyer to have a full understanding of these costs early in the project so that they can develop an accurate budget for the project.

Be Careful with Quotes That Look Too Cheap  

A lower price quote is not a problem in itself. It is just as important to know why the supplier’s price is lower than others.

Possible reasons include:

• Smaller play structure
• Fewer attractions
• Simpler design theme
• Different material specifications
• Limited documentation
• Reduced installation support
• Shorter warranty period
• Shipping exclusions
• Limited after-sales service

How to Choose the Right Indoor Playground Supplier

The right supplier of indoor playground equipment will support you in implementing your project from the idea to opening day with as few problems as possible and as clear as possible costs.

Look for suppliers that demonstrate:

• Clear communication
• Custom indoor playground design capabilities
• Detailed quotations
• Commercial-grade engineering
• Manufacturing experience
• Shipping support
• Installation assistance
• Warranty coverage
• Long-term service commitment

This type of buyer looks for suppliers that are able to support them through many stages of the project, such as design, manufacturing, logistics, and installation planning. They also want suppliers who are able to support the buyer’s operational needs after the installation has been completed.

At Dreamland Playground, we specialize in working with commercial clients to complete custom indoor playground equipment projects. This includes providing design services, the manufacture of the equipment, and the coordination of the project from start to finish. For potential customers comparing quotes, a clear, detailed, and transparent quote makes decision-making a breeze.

Final Thoughts

When comparing indoor playground quotes, do not just compare prices. You must compare the full scope of the project and determine what each company offers the buyer.

A full professional quotation must outline the details of your proposed indoor playground project, including the design, equipment, the proposed materials, and the logistics for delivery, installation, and after-sales service.

Looking for a professional and experienced indoor playground supplier for your next project? If you are building a new indoor playground, family entertainment facility, trampoline park or soft play for toddlers, please provide us with your floor plan and a rough idea of the size of your facility along with the age of children that will be using your play area and we will be able to send you a custom design for your facility along with a detailed free commercial playground quote.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are indoor playground quotes so different?

The quotes for an indoor playground can vary greatly depending on the supplies and what is included in the price for the indoor playground. Some suppliers may include all the equipment, materials, design, shipping, and installation of the indoor playground. Others may only include the manufacturing of the playground equipment and leave the rest of the work up to the buyer.

What should be included in an indoor playground quote?

A professional quotation for an indoor playground should include detailed design drawings, the specified equipment and corresponding product specifications, dimensions and materials used for the individual components, a description of the delivery, the installation service, and the warranty period, as well as information on the after-sales service.

Should I choose the cheapest indoor playground quote?

No. It is better to compare the total value that the buyer will receive from the different suppliers for the total price that they charge. Also, the buyer should compare the after-sales service that the suppliers will provide.

How do I compare indoor playground materials?

For comparing different materials for an indoor playground, you can ask suppliers about the following aspects: steel pipe thickness, foam density, PVC quality, platform strength, fire-retardant properties, netting specifications, and hardware.

Do indoor playground quotes include installation?

In most cases, installation is not included in an indoor playground supplier’s price for their custom equipment. They can provide you with installation instructions. Some suppliers can also send someone to your site to supervise the construction of your play structure if you want them to.

What factors affect indoor playground cost?

Project size, the type of equipment selected, the level of customization, the type of materials and design used for the theme, the distance that the playground needs to be shipped, the costs of installation, and the safety features of the playground.

What safety documentation should buyers request?

Buyers should request material reports, testing documentation, safety specifications, and other documentation relevant to local requirements.