Most estimators have experienced it.
You send out an RFQ, pricing starts coming in, and the questions begin.
A drawing is missing. A detail is unclear. An addendum wasn’t included. Scope assumptions start to vary from one bidder to the next.
None of these issues are major on their own, but together they can create delays, confusion, and pricing inconsistencies.
The good news is that many of these problems can be avoided with a quick review before the RFQ goes out.
Here are a few things worth checking before hitting send.
Are You Working From the Latest Drawings?
It sounds simple, but outdated drawings remain one of the most common causes of confusion during bidding.
Before sending an RFQ, confirm that the package includes the latest structural drawings, relevant architectural drawings, specifications, and any issued addendums.
Even small revisions can have a significant impact on scope.
Is the Scope Clear?
One of the fastest ways to create pricing differences is to leave room for assumptions.
Take a few minutes to identify any areas that may be unclear.
For example:
- Are stairs or rails included?
- Is miscellaneous steel part of the package?
- Who is responsible for connection design?
- Are embeds included?
The more clarity provided upfront, the more consistent the pricing tends to be.
Are There Obvious Gaps in the Drawings?
No drawing package is perfect, but some issues are worth identifying early.
Missing elevations, incomplete details, conflicting dimensions, or undefined member conditions can all create questions during estimating.
Catching those items before the RFQ goes out often saves time later.
Have Schedule Expectations Been Communicated?
Schedule requirements can influence pricing just as much as scope.
If the project has specific delivery requirements, phased releases, accelerated timelines, or sequencing constraints, make sure those expectations are communicated early.
A fabricator’s approach to a fast-track project may be very different than a project with a flexible schedule.
Are Special Requirements Easy to Find?
Some of the biggest pricing impacts come from details that are buried in specifications.
Items such as galvanizing, specialty coatings, exposed architectural steel requirements, or tight tolerances can significantly affect fabrication planning.
If those requirements exist, it helps to make them easy to identify.
Think Like the Bidder
Before sending the RFQ, try looking at the package from the fabricator’s perspective.
If you were seeing these drawings for the first time, what questions would you have?
That simple exercise often uncovers missing information, conflicting details, or assumptions that may otherwise go unnoticed.
Why This Matters
A perfect drawing package rarely exists.
But spending ten extra minutes reviewing an RFQ can help reduce questions, improve pricing consistency, and create a smoother bidding process.
Small adjustments upfront often save significantly more time later.
If you’d ever like a second set of eyes on a project before it goes out for pricing, our team is always happy to help.