Structural Steel Estimating & Takeoff Services

Review a steel bid using member-by-member quantities, documented sizes and clear supply/erection boundaries. JLG Estimating organizes structural and miscellaneous metal scope from framing plans and schedules, separating steel weights from decking areas, connection allowances and equipment assumptions.

Division 05Quantity-only or priced scopeCommercial contractor bid support

Project-based estimating fees. Confirm scope, fee and delivery after document review.

Scope and measurement basis

What the structural steel takeoff can include

Choose the items required for your bid. Quantities are grouped by the available drawing references, material or assembly, location and unit. Pricing is added only when it forms part of the agreed package.

Structural Steel scope and review fields
Scope itemMeasurementInformation retained
Beams and columnsLF / LB / tonsMember mark, section and level
HSS and bracingLF / LBSection, length and material reference
Joists and girdersEA / scheduled basisTags, spans and supplier package
Metal deckingSFProfile, gauge, level and openings
Plates and connectionsEA / LBIssued details or stated allowance basis
Miscellaneous metalsLF / EA / weightStairs, rails, ladders and supports as documented
Commercial structural steel frame erection with mobile crane and ironworkers

Keep member weight separate from connection and erection scope

We cross-check framing levels against column and member schedules, recording the member designation and measured or scheduled length. The workbook preserves the unit-weight source so totals can be traced back to individual members. Joists, decking and purchased assemblies retain their own units rather than being forced into one inferred tonnage.

Connections may be fully detailed, partially detailed or delegated. The estimate identifies that difference and labels allowances instead of presenting them as engineered connections. For pricing, coating systems, shop versus field work, freight, crane access, erection sequencing and temporary support responsibilities need a stated basis. Quantities do not establish a lifting plan or fabrication approval.

Scope interfaces to settle before pricing

  • Separate structural members from reinforcing steel and light-gauge framing.
  • Confirm who carries embeds, anchor bolts, fireproofing, painting and delegated connection design.
  • Distinguish a tender quantity takeoff from shop drawings, fabrication models and engineered erection planning.

Choose the output your bid team needs

Quantity-only takeoff

Use an itemized workbook to apply your own supplier quotes and crew rates. Keep quantities, units, locations, drawing references and measurement assumptions separate. Agree the PDF markup and summary format with the proposal.

Compare quantity takeoff services →

Priced trade estimate

Build on measured quantities with the agreed material, labor and equipment inputs. Identify supplier exclusions, quote dates, access assumptions and contractor markups so your team can review the bid basis before submission.

See bid estimating support →

Revision or alternate review

Identify the original drawing issue and the changed package. Keep additions, deletions and alternate quantities visible; clarify whether repricing and a revised scope letter are included in this assignment.

Review the revision checklist →

For workbook organization, see the illustrative deliverable layouts. These layouts show the format; project-specific samples will be identified separately when available.

Structural Steel estimating questions

They can include both when specified in the request. Beams, columns and bracing are separated from stairs, rails, ladders and supports, with each group keeping its own measurement basis and location references.

Send your bid documents

Request a structural steel estimate

Tell us the project location, trade scope and whether you need quantities only or a priced estimate. Add your bid deadline if you have one.

Useful documents for a scope review

  • Structural framing plans, sections and column/member schedules
  • Connection details, notes, specifications and design responsibility information
  • Decking and joist schedules plus miscellaneous metal details
  • Coating requirements, bid alternates, erection scope and current addenda

Upload the available set, or include a shared drawings link in your message. Note missing documents and any items you want excluded.

What happens next?

We review the available documents and clarify the requested package. The proposal establishes deliverables, fee, revision scope and delivery milestones before estimating work starts.

Review estimating fees and scope questions or call +1 (317) 751-5969.

Project enquiry

Request an Estimating Proposal

Tell us what you are bidding. Share your plans to discuss the scope, fee and delivery date.

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Up to 5 files, 50 MB each. PDF, ZIP, DWG, DXF, Excel or images. Uploaded file links accompany your enquiry. For a larger set, include a shared folder link in your message.

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