Electronic signature of a commercial quote

Why sign a quote electronically

Having a quote signed means transforming a proposal into an order. The faster it is, the warmer the prospect stays. The electronic signature allows you to go from “I will think about it” to “good for signed agreement” in a few minutes.

Concrete gains:

• 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

Thesimple signature (SES)is sufficient for the majority of commercial quotes. Fast, frictionless, legally valid: once signed, the quote constitutes a commitment.

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

Typical procedure

1. Writing the quote in your invoicing tool (Sellsy, QuickBooks, Sage, etc.)
2. Export to PDF
3. Sending via your signature platform, SES or AES
4. Customer signs from their mobile or computer
5. Signed quote returns automatically in your CRM and your accounting

Mention “Good for agreement”

Traditionally, we required the handwritten mention “Good for agreement” before signing. In electronic signature, clicking on “I sign” with OTP provides the same consent, legally equivalent.

You can nevertheless include a “Good for agreement” text field in the electronic quote to reassure customers who are used to paper.

Operational benefits

• Salespeople freed from manual monitoring
• Fewer “forgotten” or lost quotes
• Impressive responsiveness for the prospect
• Direct supply of invoicing (accounting gain)

Frequent errors

• Do not include the T&Cs in the appendix
• Use AES for a simple quote (oversized, unnecessary friction)
• Forget the payment conditions
• Do not restart automatically

Concrete case: industrial SME

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

• signature rate: 62%
• average delay: 2.5 days
• estimated annual commercial gain: +€180,000 in additional turnover

How Certyneo helps you

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

Discover the Certyneo electronic signature solution

FAQ

Is a quote signed in SES binding on the customer?

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

Can we modify a signed quote?

No. If modification, a new quote must be reissued and signed.

Do the T&Cs have to be signed separately?

Ideally, include them in the quote in the same envelope.

How long to keep a signed quote?

10 years (commercial part).

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

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

Conclusion

Having a quote signed electronically accelerates your commercial cycle, improves your conversion rate, and secures your invoicing.

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