Smarter Electrical Takeoff Starts with Better Data
Electrical takeoff isn’t just about counting switches or estimating wire lengths. It’s a strategic data process that can either tighten your bids or cause costly errors. At True Bid Data, we approach electrical takeoff as a critical part of preconstruction—designed to deliver pinpoint quantities, clear documentation, and actionable insights for your estimating workflow.
When integrated with tools like PlanSwift and supported by RSMeans pricing, electrical takeoff becomes a high-impact process that supports bid accuracy, procurement planning, and labor forecasting.
What Goes Into a Solid Electrical Takeoff?
An electrical takeoff involves quantifying every component involved in the electrical scope, including:
- Conduit and fittings (EMT, PVC, RMC)
- Devices like outlets, switches, and receptacles
- Lighting fixtures—interior, exterior, and emergency
- Panelboards, transformers, and disconnects
- Low-voltage systems (fire alarm, security, data)
Rather than just counting symbols on drawings, True Bid Data uses digital overlays and customized takeoff assemblies to extract true build quantities—including mounting types, heights, raceway paths, and cable schedules.
How True Bid Data Enhances Your Electrical Takeoff
We don’t just measure—we translate complex drawings into structured estimating data that syncs with your cost models. Here’s how we do it:
PlanSwift Integration
- Digitally trace conduit runs and wire paths
- Auto-count fixtures, devices, and systems
- Capture layer-specific measurements (e.g., branch vs. feeder)
Clean CSI Division Categorization
- All items tagged by CSI Division 26, 27, and 28
- Organized output for smooth import into estimating tools
- No duplicate entries or scope confusion
Accurate RSMeans-Based Costing
- Labor and material costs adjusted for local zip codes
- Includes non-union or prevailing wage rates
- Labor productivity factors tailored to job type (new build vs. retrofit)
Key Trade Applications We Support
Electrical takeoff isn’t one-size-fits-all. We tailor each takeoff to fit your project’s sector:
Commercial & Institutional
- Motion-sensor lighting, lighting control zones
- Occupancy sensors, GFCI placements
- Nurse call and paging systems (hospitals/schools)
Industrial
- Motor control centers (MCC)
- Hazardous wiring enclosures
- Busways and overhead cable tray
Low-Voltage & Smart Systems
- Fiber optic cabling and pathway support
- Patch panel planning and data cabinet layouts
- Fire alarm and emergency communication zoning
Why Data-Driven Takeoff Matters
A well-structured electrical takeoff offers more than just quantities. It gives you:
- Predictable labor scheduling
- Consistent vendor procurement lists
- Fewer field change orders
- Transparent quantity audit trails
]When your takeoff is clean, your estimator isn’t guessing. Your field crew isn’t confused. And your procurement isn’t overbuying or scrambling mid-project.
Common Pitfalls in Electrical Takeoff (and How We Avoid Them)
Even experienced estimators can fall into traps like:
- Forgetting mounting height differences for switches and fixtures
- Ignoring ceiling elevations, leading to cable length miscalculations
- Missing out on specialty device allowances (e.g., key switches, card readers)
- Double-counting devices due to overlapping plan layers
Our QA process involves layer reviews, drawing comparison, and scope isolation to ensure none of these slip through.
From Takeoff to Estimate – One Seamless Flow
At True Bid Data, our takeoff packages are built for plug-and-play estimating. You can directly drop our data into:
- Excel bid templates
- ProEst, Sage Estimating, or Trimble
- Material ordering systems and purchase schedules
Whether it’s a logistics center in New Jersey or a hospital retrofit in Queens, our takeoffs are ready to build, bid, and buy.
Choose True Bid Data for Your Next Electrical Takeoff
When you work with True Bid Data, you’re choosing:
- Professional-grade takeoffs tailored to Division 26 and beyond
- Zip-code accurate RSMeans-based pricing
- Faster bid readiness and estimate accuracy
- Clean digital documentation with full traceability
We help you avoid guesswork, reduce bid risk, and win projects with clarity. Let our team support your estimating process with the precision of technology and the confidence of experience