The less you say, the better. A contractor doesn't need to know if you plan to get multiple quotes. You may decide that you like the first person. In most cases, that would be a bad form. The quote may involve work beyond simply calculating prices.
Assuming you're not going to be the first company to request a quote with catalog numbers, they'll struggle to determine if you need A, B, and C to meet your needs, so offering the quote to a competitor is basically providing them with free labor. You'll convert more quotes into sales if you keep track of every quote that leaves the office. As a general guideline, quotes should not occupy more than 5 to 10% of the item. When in doubt, ask your instructor or supervisor what amount of quote is appropriate in your field.
