Separate plant cost from installed cost
Nursery price is only one part of the decision. Delivery, access, root-ball size, mulch, disposal, equipment, and crew time can matter as much as the plant itself.
Use quantity and access together
A long row with easy access can price differently than a few heavy trees behind a fence. Count, size, distance from staging, and slope should be reviewed together.
Clarify what is included
A useful estimate should make the scope clear enough to compare: plant material, installation, finish work, cleanup, watering expectations, and any warranty assumptions.