Credit: Original article published here.

In today’s bidding world it can be confusing to understand, which number to use when receiving bids from multiple suppliers on a project? All suppliers use different pricing sheets and have different ways of putting proposals together. It is not always a clear decision, and the low number is not always the best number. Proposals need to be reviewed in depth to determine if the comparisons are truly apples to apples between subcontractors. Below are a few items to look for to ensure you are getting the best pricing and the most offered when choosing a precast supplier, and to limit potential change orders or additional unforeseen costs during the construction phase.

Ask for scope sheets early so you are able to review included and excluded items, and address any questions you may have prior to the bid. Some common items overlooked are embedded electrical, temporary wall panel bracing, field patching, and final washing of the product, just to name a few.

Make sure your supplier complies with all local and state regulations in which they are doing work in and are working in the confinements of these established laws. Addressing these items early allows you to discuss the project with the potential precast suppliers, to get a feel for what involvement they have had in the project prior to the bid.

Having preliminary knowledge of the project from your subcontractor prior to the project kickoff streamlines the process flow. They are aware of the layout, architects chosen samples, potential issues, and have worked with the design team upfront to create what is expected to make sure all that are involved are creating a project they can proud of once complete.

Discuss scheduling. Get this predetermined, so an accurate overall construction schedule is established prior to bid. This sets expectations early on for all parties involved and allows for a more accurate overall construction schedule to be established between trades to ensure the project tracks as expected and the owner is aware of the milestone dates during construction.

Remember it is not only about final numbers. It is about the service and commitment you receive from your chosen subcontractor as well as the overall product quality and common goals you establish for the project prior to the bid date.

Scott Monzelowsky
Sales | Estimating