1. Bid fewer jobs, but the right ones
Use a simple bid/no-bid check before you open the plans:
- Is this project type and size where we win most often?
- Do we know the owner, architect or GC?
- Can our crews start on the schedule shown?
- Is the bid date realistic for a complete estimate?
- Are the documents complete enough to price?
Three or more "no" answers usually means pass.
2. Track your hit rate
Record every bid: client, project type, size, your number, the winning number if you can get it. After a few months you will see which clients and sectors are worth your time.
3. Price with current numbers
AGC reported that construction input prices rose 7.1% from July 2025 to July 2026, with big jumps in asphalt, diesel, aluminum, steel and copper (AGC). Reusing old unit costs either loses money or loses the bid. Get fresh supplier quotes for major materials on every job.
4. Cover the scope gaps
GCs compare subcontractor bids line by line. A bid that clearly covers the full scope, or clearly excludes what it doesn't, is easier to carry. Use a scope sheet for each trade and check it against the specifications, not only the drawings.
5. Make your bid easy to read
- One-page summary with the base bid, alternates and unit prices
- Clear inclusions, exclusions and qualifications
- Price-hold date for volatile materials
- Contact name and phone for questions
6. Follow up
Call or email the estimator a day after bid day. Ask where you stood and what would have made your bid stronger. Many contractors never ask and keep repeating the same mistakes.
7. Use help when the bid board is full
When you have more bids than estimating hours, outsourcing takeoffs or full estimates lets you bid the jobs you would otherwise skip. Premium Estimating prepares estimates organized by CSI division with marked-up plans. Single-trade estimates start from $300. See bid preparation support or send us your plans.