ECN Forum
Posted By: Happi_Man Electrical Enlightenment - 01/07/03 12:28 PM
Has anyone ever heard of this estimating service? I got a fax about it this morning. I might consider using a service like this if its reliable. At least until I get more estimating for myself - or start making enough money to hire an estimator...
Posted By: sparky Re: Electrical Enlightenment - 01/07/03 12:38 PM
yes, they exist in many forms, but nothing will replace your 'gut' reaction to jobs & customers......
Posted By: Happi_Man Re: Electrical Enlightenment - 01/07/03 12:48 PM
yeah - i understand that - my problem is that my estimating experience is lacking and that makes me question myself big time - whether my estimates are accurate. I don't feel like a contractor is going to say - hey - this bid is outrageous! They're just never going to call me again.

I'm treading water over here after the holidays...we need work...
Posted By: bobp Re: Electrical Enlightenment - 01/07/03 06:37 PM
Have you ever thought of estimating software? I don't use any, but I have seen several that looked good. That with your "gut reaction" should do you pretty good and save you some money (and the software would be a tax deduction).

Bob
Posted By: Happi_Man Re: Electrical Enlightenment - 01/07/03 07:49 PM
Here's my probloem with estimating software - I can't figure out how to use it! LOL! I have a couple of demos and they seem so complicated. Then when you call for support all they want to do is sell you stuff. Not to mention - have you priced that stuff!? I'm having a hard enough time paying health insurance let alone paying 700 - 800 bucks for software...

I am messing around with one program - but I believe you still have to enter in pricing for certain types of materials and such - which is one of my biggest hurdles.
Posted By: HotLine1 Re: Electrical Enlightenment - 01/08/03 01:24 AM
Happi Man:
You can get materials pricing from Trade Services, they used to have a book, don't know if they still offer it or only offer on-line service now.

There are also some "estimating" books...look in the left side margin of this page<<<<<<<

I tried the computer route, didn't like what I saw/used/tried. Made a basic Excel spreadsheet form, plug in my man hours, and get materials pricing from the supply houses, or use a supply house price book.

Good Luck, hope you land some work. Stay competitive and don't give away the store.

Oh yea, we won't get into the insurance costs now but the only way the premiums are going is ^^^

John
Posted By: Happi_Man Re: Electrical Enlightenment - 01/10/03 01:36 AM
I just ordered Electrical Estimating by Michael Holt. Anyone have any experience with this book? Any comments?
Posted By: macwire Re: Electrical Enlightenment - 01/13/03 11:18 AM
I'm quite sure there are Excel templates out there on the Web for estimating. Just do a search on Google (or the search engine of your choice).

MacWire
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