KNOW WHAT YOU ARE REQUESTING
The estimate package.
Beyond a single total.
Agree the deliverables with your quotation. A quantity takeoff, priced estimate and construction budget serve different decisions and should have a defined scope.
YOUR DRAWINGS. A DEFINED PROPOSAL.
Tell us the output your bid needs.
Send your details right here. Share the package you’re bidding and the output you need.
- One trade or a combined industrial package
- Quantities only or a priced cost breakdown
- Scope, fee and delivery agreed before work
Review the output structure
Start with a small route schedule you can inspect. The worked example shows the input dimensions, measured total and a revision change. You can edit the workbook to see how the quantities update.
For your proposal, specify whether the package should be grouped by trade, system, equipment tag, area or your own bid codes. The required format and level of detail should be confirmed before work starts.
Original worked format with constructed inputs. It is not a redacted client estimate.
| Work package | Quantity basis | Cost basis |
|---|---|---|
| 01 Process piping | Line / size / spec | Material + labor |
| 02 Equipment setting | Equipment tag | Installation scope |
| 03 Electrical | System / circuit | Material + labor |
| 04 Structural steel | Member / drawing | Defined package |
Output structure preview. This is not a completed client estimate.
1. Drawing and input register
List the source drawings, schedules, specifications and vendor information with their revision identifiers. This gives the bid team a common reference when an addendum changes the scope.
2. Quantity takeoff
For measurement without prices, review the industrial takeoff service and request quantities for your own rates.
Show descriptions, measurement units, measured quantities and drawing references. Separate work packages and identify quantities that are allowances rather than direct measurements. Ordering quantities may differ from installed quantities and should be defined explicitly.
3. Cost breakdown, where commissioned
Separate material, labor, equipment and subcontract allowances as agreed. Identify the location, pricing date and available quote basis. Equipment supply quotes need to be checked for freight, installation, taxes and other inclusions before costs are combined.
4. Basis of Estimate
Explain the estimate purpose, scope boundaries, methodology, input revisions, assumptions, allowances, exclusions and unresolved risks. This narrative helps another experienced project team member understand how the estimate was prepared.
Review the BOE checklist and download a blank template →
5. Clarifications and revision scope
List questions that affect quantities or pricing and state how later information will be handled. A corrected measurement, a drawing revision and an added trade package are different changes; the proposal should explain the review and revision arrangements.
See a quantity revision comparison →
What to request with your quote
- Quantity-only takeoff or priced construction estimate
- Spreadsheet format and required work-package grouping
- Drawing register and marked-plan requirements
- Assumptions, exclusions and pricing basis
- Required delivery date and revision scope
Methodology reference: AACE — Why Is a Basis of Estimate Necessary? Referencing guidance does not imply certification or endorsement.
YOUR NEXT BID
Put a defined scope behind your next industrial bid.
Share your drawings, project location, required trades and deadline. Agree the scope, fee and delivery date before estimating begins.