In today’s competitive construction environment, accurate and efficient bidding can make or break your steel erection business. At Steel Estimating Solutions, we understand the unique challenges steel erectors face when preparing bids. That’s why we developed the industry’s most advanced steel erection estimating software designed by a steel erector for steel erectors. In this article, we uncover the top 7 reasons steel erectors lose bids and how switching to the right steel erection bid software can fix these problems.
1. Inaccurate Estimates
One of the primary reasons erectors lose bids is due to inaccurate labor and equipment costs. Manual calculations or outdated spreadsheets often lead to underestimating job requirements. Using a powerful steel erection cost estimator like our Steel Erection Bid Wizard allows erectors to precisely calculate project costs, minimizing risk and ensuring bids are competitive yet profitable.
Fix: Implement steel construction cost estimator tools that automate calculations using real-world labor rates, crane costs, and more.
2. Slow Bid Turnaround Times
Speed is critical in the bidding process. Manual estimating or disconnected software slows down your ability to submit quotes, especially for fast-moving GC bids.
Fix: Use our steel erection estimating software integrated with digital takeoff software to quickly generate precise takeoffs and cost breakdowns in less time.
3. Lack of Field-Based Knowledge in Estimating
Many generic construction estimating software platforms fail to reflect the actual workflow of steel erection crews. Estimators with limited field knowledge may misinterpret drawings or overlook key site factors.
Fix: Choose estimating software for contractors developed by professionals with field experience. At Steel Estimating Solutions, our tools were created by a former ironworker with decades of experience.
4. Not Using Digital Tools
Still using paper plans and manual takeoffs? You’re already behind. Most competitors have adopted digital estimating solutions for increased speed and accuracy.
Fix: Upgrade to a digital takeoff software solution that integrates directly with your steel erection bid software. We recommend tools like On Screen Takeoff, or explore our recommendations for an on screen takeoff alternative.
5. Generic Estimating Software Doesn’t Fit Steel Work
Most construction cost estimation software is built for general contractors, not steel erectors. This mismatch leads to wasted time trying to customize templates that don’t work.
Fix: Adopt metal building estimating software or structural steel estimating tools tailored specifically to your trade. Our Metal Building Bid Wizard and Steel Erection Bid Wizard are the best estimating software for erectors.
6. Poor Job Cost Tracking
Winning the bid is just the beginning. Without effective steel erection job costing, you risk losing money during project execution.
Fix: Use steel erection cost calculator tools that allow you to compare estimated vs. actual costs in real time. Our Project Management Wizard helps you monitor costs, labor, and profit daily.
7. Failure to Learn from Past Projects
Many companies fail to analyze completed jobs to improve future bids. Without performance data, you’re stuck guessing.
Fix: Use ironworker estimating software and tracking tools to create feedback loops that refine your estimating process.
Why Choose Steel Estimating Solutions?
At Steel Estimating Solutions, we’re not just software developers—we’re ironworkers, foremen, and project managers who know what it’s like to be in the field. Our software:
- Is the only steel erection estimating software made by erectors for erectors
- Offers intuitive interfaces with digital takeoff software integration
- Speeds up bidding using construction estimating software built for your trade
- Tracks labor, equipment, and job costs with ease
From metal building estimating software to steel erection cost estimator tools, we provide everything you need to win more bids and increase profitability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can this work for both structural steel and pre-engineered metal buildings?
Yes! We offer the Steel Erection Bid Wizard for structural projects and the Metal Building Bid Wizard for PEMBs.
Q2: Is it hard to learn?
Not at all. Our system is built to be user-friendly and comes with complete training and support.
Q3: Can I integrate my digital takeoff software?
Yes. Our system works well with most major digital takeoff software options and we can recommend the best fit.
Q4: How do I track actual vs. estimated costs?
With our Project Management Wizard, you get real-time steel erection job costing tools to monitor labor, crane time, and overall performance.
Q5: What makes this better than generic construction estimating software?
We built our tools specifically for steel erectors. It’s not a one-size-fits-all template. It’s made for YOUR work.
Conclusion
If you’re still estimating manually or using general contractor software, you’re leaving money on the table. Let Steel Estimating Solutions help you take your bidding process digital with the best steel erection estimating software on the market. From ironworker estimating software to powerful digital estimating solutions, we help you bid faster, smarter, and more profitably.
Get started today and see why over 400 erectors trust Steel Estimating Solutions.
