Guide
Construction takeoff checklist for contractors
Most quote delays are not the supplier's fault — they are a takeoff that cannot be priced. Run through this before you send anything out.
Before you count
- Confirm you have the latest drawing revision
- Note the scale and any addenda that change quantities
- List the scopes you are buying versus subcontracting
Per line item
- Description with spec: species/grade, size, gauge, rating, finish — whatever changes the price
- Unit of measure: one unit per line, consistent across the whole list
- Quantity including waste factor: and say whether waste is already included
- Acceptable substitutions: or mark the line "no substitutions"
- Phase or area: so partial deliveries can be scheduled
The lines contractors forget
- Fasteners, adhesives, sealants and tape
- Flashing, trims, closures and transitions
- Blocking, backing and temporary bracing
- Anchors, straps and connectors
- Consumables: blades, bits, form oil
- Site protection and dumpster/haul-off
Before you send the RFQ
- Every line has description, unit and quantity — no blanks
- Duplicate lines merged
- Jobsite address and needed-by date attached
- Delivery or will-call stated
- Saved as CSV or a plain list so any supplier can price it
BlueZupply imports the list from CSV, Excel or pasted text, lets you edit or delete lines before it goes out, then requests quotes from every matched supplier at once. Next: how to write the RFQ.