In today’s hyper-competitive construction landscape, submitting accurate and competitive bids is the single most critical factor determining a contractor’s profitability and growth.

Why Most Contractors Lose Profitable Bids

Estimating errors usually fall into two categories: overestimating quantities (which makes your bid too expensive and leads to lost tenders) or underestimating material costs (which leads to winning a project that bleeds money).

Key Takeaway:

Outsourcing your material takeoffs to dedicated quantity surveyors guarantees 99% precision while reducing in-house overhead costs by up to 60%.

The Power of Color-Coded Takeoff Drawings

At Estimen LLC, every quantity survey report is backed by color-coded markup drawings generated in Bluebeam and Planswift. This enables general contractors to visually verify every linear foot, square foot, and piece count before finalizing tender prices.

4 Steps to Standardize Your Bid Submissions

  • 1. Establish Baseline Quantities: Perform comprehensive count surveys early during preliminary design.
  • 2. Apply Local Labor Rates: Calculate productivity hours using regional database standards (MCAA, PHCC, RSMeans).
  • 3. Account for Waste & Contingencies: Factor in 5-10% trade-specific scrap allowances.
  • 4. Present Clean Breakdowns: Submit itemized Excel spreadsheets split by CSI masterformat divisions.