Accubid & Trimble Electrical Estimating

Yes, but we need a scale. If the PDF is not to scale, we ask for a dimensioned drawing or a known dimension to calibrate. Without a scale, we can count devices and fixtures but cannot measure conduit runs accurately. We will flag any measurements that are based on an assumed scale. For example, if you provide a dimension of 20 ft between column lines, we can set that as a reference. We then verify by checking a few known distances. If no scale is available, we will note that conduit lengths are estimated and should be verified in the field.

We take off the modular skid as a single assembly if the spec calls for it. We break out the components inside the skid only if your database requires it. We also note the interface points where field wiring connects to the skid so those runs are not missed. For example, we will list the skid as one line item with a quantity of 1 EA, and then separately list the feeder conduits and conductors that land on the skid. We also check for any required disconnects or junction boxes at the skid boundary. This ensures your estimate includes both the prefabricated unit and the field connections.

We provide material quantities with units. Labor hours are applied by your estimator using your Accubid or Trimble labor database. If you want, we can apply NECA or RSMeans labor units as a separate column, but we do not override your database rates. For example, if you use NECA labor units, we can add a column showing hours per item based on the NECA manual. However, we recommend you apply your own rates because they reflect your crew efficiency and project conditions. We can also provide a separate labor summary by CSI division if needed.

Most projects turn in 24–48 hours. A 50,000 sq ft office with typical power and lighting takes about 48 hours if the drawings are complete. Rush turnaround is available for an additional fee. If sheets arrive in batches, we take off what is issued and flag the rest. For a project of this size, we typically need the floor plans, panel schedules, one-line diagram, and fixture schedule. If any of these are missing, we will note the assumptions and proceed with what we have. We can also provide a preliminary takeoff within 24 hours if you need early numbers.

Yes. We take off Division 27 structured cabling and Division 28 fire alarm from the systems drawings. We count devices, patch panels, FACP terminal cabinets, and conduit. We need the riser diagram and device schedules to do it accurately. For example, we will count each data outlet, each fire alarm pull station, and each notification appliance. We also measure the conduit and cable runs between them. If the drawings do not show device locations, we will flag it and ask for clarification. We can also include testing and termination labor if specified.

We take off the base scope first. If addenda or clarifications are issued, we take off the changes as a separate line item so you can see the delta. We do not blend changes into the base takeoff unless you ask us to. For example, if an addendum adds ten light fixtures, we will list them as a separate line with quantity and unit. We also note the addendum number and date. This allows you to quickly see the impact on your bid. If multiple addenda are issued, we will keep each separate or combine them if you prefer. We can also provide a summary of changes by CSI division.

We flag it as a question. We can derive a typical circuit count from the floor plan, but the bus ampacity and breaker count come from the schedule. Without it, we carry an allowance and note the assumption so you can price it separately. For example, we might assume a 42-circuit panel with a 225A bus, but we will clearly mark it as an assumption. We will also list the panel as a line item with a note to verify. This way, you can adjust the estimate once the schedule is available. We recommend requesting the schedule from the design team early.

Yes. We count ground rods, exothermic connections, ground bars, and bonding jumpers. We take them from Division 26 05 26 and the electrical site plan. If the spec requires a ground grid, we measure it from the details. For example, we will count each ground rod, each exothermic weld, and each ground bar. We also measure the grounding electrode conductor from the service to the ground bar. If the drawings show a ground ring, we will measure its length. We also check for bonding of metal water piping and structural steel. All these items are included in our takeoff.

We measure every homerun and carry all sizes explicitly. Many estimators stop at 2 in, which misses the larger feeders. We scale each run and record the size from the spec. This is a common scope gap we catch. For example, we will list 2-1/2 in, 3 in, 4 in, and larger conduits as separate line items with their quantities. We also note the fittings and supports required for each size. If the drawings do not clearly show the size, we will refer to the one-line diagram or spec. We also check for any special requirements for large conduits, such as expansion fittings or seismic bracing.

We provide an Excel workbook with columns for item, quantity, unit, and CSI section. We can also map to your item or assembly structure if you send a sample. We do not directly import into Accubid, but the format is designed for clean re-keying or import. For example, we can include a column for your item code and a column for the assembly code. We can also provide a CSV file if needed. If you have a specific template, we will follow it. Our goal is to make it easy for you to load the quantities into your estimating software with minimal effort.

We use ZIP-code-adjusted material and labor pricing from RSMeans data. This means the numbers reflect local costs. We do not mark up material or labor; we provide quantities and let you apply your own pricing. For example, if you are bidding in a major city, the material costs will be adjusted to that ZIP code. We also adjust labor rates based on the location. If you prefer, we can provide bare costs without adjustments. We can also provide a breakdown by material and labor if you need it for your estimate. Our pricing basis is transparent and documented.

Yes, if they are shown on the drawings or specified. We carry them as separate line items so you can include or exclude them at bid time. They are often on a site logistics sheet rather than the electrical drawings. For example, we will count temporary power poles, spider boxes, and feeders. We will also note any temporary lighting required. If the drawings do not show them, we will ask if you want us to include an allowance. We can also take off temporary power for phased construction if the schedule requires it. These items are typically not part of the permanent scope but can affect your bid.

Yes. Send the complete bid package — drawings, specs, addenda, and any RFI responses — and we take off Division 26, 27, 28, and 33 scope. We mark up the plan set, log each RFI that affects quantities, and return the takeoff in Excel and PDF. For a commercial electrical estimating bid, we also flag scope that sits between trades so your proposal does not carry another contractor's work.

A material takeoff counts raceway, conductors, boxes, devices, and equipment. Electrical cost estimating adds labor hours, ZIP-code-adjusted material pricing, and support items such as hangers, terminations, and testing. We use RSMeans data behind the numbers and return HR lines for labor. If you only need quantities, we can stop at the takeoff; if you need a priced estimate, we extend it.

Yes. We structure the takeoff so each line maps to a database item in Accubid or Trimble, with units such as LF, EA, and LB. If your database uses assemblies, we group conduit, wire, boxes, and fittings under one assembly line. The file arrives in Excel and PDF, and your estimator can audit every count against the marked-up plan set before importing.