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Built-in shelving estimate example
Built-ins are custom, so the bid is the drawing. Dimensions and materials on the page, every time.
"built in bookcase both sides of fireplace, 2 units each 42 w x 96 h x 14 d, paint grade poplar and mdf, adjustable shelves, base cabinet with 2 doors each side, crown to ceiling, primed, paint by others"
Example figures for a typical built-in shelving job. Not a quote. Every line on the estimate came from the notes above. Nothing was added.
What to spell out on a built-in shelving bid
- Dimensions of each unit.
- Materials: face frame, box, shelves, doors.
- Shelf type: adjustable or fixed.
- Finish: primed, painted, or stained, and by whom.
A deck over a certain height, or one attached to the house, often needs a permit. A deposit for special-order material is normal.
The parts of this estimate
- Scope of work. 5 lines, one thing each, in the order the work happens. What is not included is on the list too.
- One price. $5,800. Not a formula, not a range. The scope explains the number.
- Timeline. 5 days. Including dry time, cure time, or permit time, so the customer plans around it.
- Payment terms. 50% upfront, 50% on completion. The $2,900 deposit is paid by card when they sign.
- Warranty. 2 years on workmanship.
- A way to accept. The customer types their name and signs with a finger on their phone. Legally binding under the E-SIGN Act, and recorded with the date, time, and the exact estimate they agreed to.
Questions carpenters ask about this bid
Should I attach a sketch?
Yes. A photo of a drawing with the dimensions on it, attached to the bid, ends most misunderstandings before they start.
Deposit?
Half. Sheet goods and hardware are bought up front and the shop time is real.
Is this a real quote?
No. The numbers are example figures for a typical job so you can see how a complete estimate reads. Your price is yours.
Can my customer sign this on their phone?
Yes. An estimate sent from BidWriter Pro opens as a link. The customer reads it, types their name, signs with a finger, and pays the deposit by card. You get an alert when they open it and when they sign.
Write your own built-in shelving estimate
Type the job the way you would text it. It comes out like the one above, in about five seconds. No account needed.
30 days free, then $29 a month. No card to start. Carpentry estimate template · BidWriter Pro for carpenters
More carpentry estimate examples
- Deck build estimate example, $8,900, 4 days
- Pergola estimate example, $4,600, 3 days
- Trim and doors estimate example, $4,400, 3 days
Guides: what to include in an estimate · how to price a job · how to follow up · how much deposit to ask for · the warranty line
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