Residential Estimating Is About More Than Square Foot Costs
Commercial estimating is one of the most complex and critical parts of preconstruction. With multiple trades, tight schedules, and high-stakes contracts, even the smallest mistake in quantity or unit pricing can cost thousands—or jeopardize the entire project.
At True Bid Data, we combine advanced digital tools with RSMeans pricing and trade-specific knowledge to deliver commercial estimates that are accurate, comprehensive, and bid-ready—every time
What’s Included in a Commercial Estimating Package?
Unlike residential work, commercial estimating involves detailed coordination across multiple systems and trades. Our estimating covers:
- Division 03–06: Concrete, masonry, metals, and wood
- Division 07–09: Thermal protection, roofing, interiors, finishes
- Division 21–28: Fire protection, plumbing, HVAC, electrical
- Division 11–14: Equipment, elevators, specialty systems
- Division 31–33: Earthwork, utilities, paving, landscaping
We break down costs per CSI division so that each contractor or bidder knows their scope clearly—whether it’s a base bid, alternate, or VE scenario.
How True Bid Data Enhances Commercial Estimating
Our process is built to eliminate gaps, accelerate bidding, and improve collaboration between estimators, PMs, and field teams.
Takeoffs Powered by PlanSwift
- Area, linear, and count-based takeoffs for every trade
- Color-coded overlays for scopes like drywall, casework, or lighting
- Integration with architectural, MEP, and structural drawings
Accurate Pricing with RSMeans + Vendor Quotes
- Localized labor and material unit costs
- Includes non-union or prevailing wage rates
- Custom vendor rates accepted if supplied
Organized Outputs in CSI Format
- Divided by trade and cost code
- Includes alternates, addenda updates, and VE scenarios
Types of Commercial Projects We Support
Commercial estimating can vary drastically depending on building use, code requirements, and system complexity. We adapt to meet those needs:
Hospitality & Retail
- king
Multi-Family Units
- Interior finishes, millwork, signage
- Fast-track schedules with phased estimating
- Allowance tracking for FFE and specialty items
Office & Institutional Buildings
- Ceiling grids, partition systems, fireproofing
- Access flooring, MEP coordination
- Division-based breakout for tenant improvements
We factor in all the real-world constraints so your numbers match field conditions.
Healthcare & Labs
- Medical gas, infection control systems
- Lead-lined partitions and cleanroom fixtures
- Zone-based MEP estimation
Each estimate is customized to meet project-specific specs, codes, and phasing.
What We Help You Avoid in Commercial Estimating
Commercial projects carry tight margins and zero room for surprises. Our structured estimating helps you avoid:
- Underestimating labor productivity on complex assemblies
- Overlooking division crossover items (e.g., access panels)
- Scope confusion between MEP contractors
- Inconsistent assumptions between base bid and alternates
We review drawings, specs, and addenda to ensure everything is covered and clearly itemized.
Why Commercial Estimating Impacts More Than the Bid
A detailed commercial estimate is more than a pricing tool. It’s your project roadmap, informing:
- Cost control during buyout
- Accurate schedules of values (SOVs)
- Procurement tracking for long-lead items
- Clear scope alignment for subcontractor negotiations
With clean, organized estimates, you reduce risk, improve coordination, and strengthen client trust.
Deliverables You’ll Receive
Our commercial estimating packages are built for speed, clarity, and field execution:
- Digital plan markups (PDFs)
- Excel-ready cost breakdowns by trade and system
- VE-ready cost alternates and itemized scope notes
Everything is clearly labeled, so your estimating team, PMs, and field supers can work from the same playbook.
Win More Projects with Commercial Estimating from True Bid Data
Commercial estimating is high-stakes work, and you need a partner who understands the demands of the field, the pressure of the bid deadline, and the nuances of each scope.
With True Bid Data, you get:
- Precision digital takeoffs across all CSI divisions
- RSMeans and custom vendor pricing
- Clean deliverables built for estimating workflows
- Fast turnaround without cutting corners
Ready to bid smarter and build better? Visit TrueBidData and let’s talk about how our commercial estimating services can make your next project more predictable—and more profitable.