Compare the same product and commercial terms
Record specification, package size, order quantity, location, supplier, delivery terms and quote validity. Compare tax and freight consistently. A change in grade or scope is not a like-for-like price movement.
Calculate the quoted change
Price change (%) = (new comparable price ÷ old comparable price − 1) × 100. For an illustrative change from $4.00 to $4.20 per SF, the quoted increase is 5%. This arithmetic example is not an observed flooring inflation rate.
Choose an appropriate published index
The BLS Producer Price Index provides published indexes. Check the series definition, publication period and product coverage before using an index as context. A broad producer index does not replace a local supplier quotation.
Keep allowances visible
Document any escalation assumption and the intended procurement date separately. See the cost planning checklist and measurement methodology.