Quotations are based on an estimate of the hours involved to take a task to whatever stage of completion the client wishes. For most formulation projects work is done in stages and stage payments invoiced. These are generally 1/3rd at start of project. 1/3rd on acceptance of samples. 1/3rd on completion with handover of formulation and product information. The completion stage is whatever suits the client, some like to pick up the formula at stage 2 and do their own stability work and documentation; others prefer the product taken to absolute completion, including microbiological challenge testing and 12 months stability.