Electronic Signature of a Commercial Quote

Why sign a quote electronically

Getting a quote signed is transforming a proposal into an order. The faster it happens, the warmer the prospect stays. Electronic signature allows you to move from "I'll think about it" to "approved and signed" in just a few minutes.

Concrete benefits:

• shortened sales cycle (1-3 days instead of 7-15)

• improved conversion rate (+15 to 30% depending on sectors)

• traceability of the agreement (exact date, IP, identification)

Recommended level

Simple electronic signature (SES) is sufficient for the majority of commercial quotes. Fast, frictionless, legally valid: once signed, the quote is binding.

For high-value quotes (> €20,000) or regulated sectors, AES provides additional security.

Typical procedure

• Draft the quote in your invoicing tool (Sellsy, QuickBooks, Sage…)

• Export as PDF

• Send via your signature platform, SES or AES

• Client signs from their mobile or computer

• Signed quote automatically returns to your CRM and accounting

"Approved" mention

Traditionally, the handwritten mention "Approved" was required before signature. With electronic signature, clicking "I sign" with OTP provides the same consent, legally equivalent.

You can nevertheless include a "Approved" text field in the electronic quote to reassure clients accustomed to paper.

Operational benefits

• Sales teams freed from manual follow-up

• Fewer "forgotten" or lost quotes

• Impressive responsiveness for the prospect

• Direct feed into invoicing (accounting gain)

Common mistakes

• Not including Terms and Conditions in the appendix

• Using AES for a simple quote (over-dimensioned, unnecessary friction)

• Forgetting payment terms

• Not setting up automatic reminders

Real case: Industrial SME

An industrial SME was sending 150 quotes/month by email. Paper signature rate: 40%, average time 8 days. Switch to electronic signature:

• signature rate: 62%

• average time: 2.5 days

• estimated annual commercial gain: +€180,000 additional revenue

How Certyneo helps you

Certyneo integrates with major invoicing tools (Sellsy, Axonaut, Sage, Pennylane) to generate and send quotes for signing in one click. Reusable templates, automatic reminders, real-time sales dashboard.

Discover the Certyneo electronic signature solution

FAQ

Does a quote signed in SES bind the client?

Yes, SES is legally valid. The evidence may be assessed by the judge but the commitment exists.

Can a signed quote be modified?

No. If modification is needed, you must reissue a new quote and have it signed.

Should Terms and Conditions be signed separately?

Ideally, integrate them into the quote in the same envelope.

How long should a signed quote be kept?

10 years (commercial document).

Does a self-employed person need to sign their quotes?

Yes, best practice: it proves the existence of the commercial relationship.

Conclusion

Getting a quote electronically signed accelerates your sales cycle, improves your conversion rate, and secures your invoicing.

Try Certyneo to send, sign and track your documents online simply, quickly and securely.