If you’re an electrical contractor, you know that winning bids is only half the battle. The real challenge? Making sure those projects turn a profit. That’s where Electrical Estimating Software comes in—but not all tools are created equal. Some promise the world but leave you drowning in unexpected costs. Others are built by generalists who don’t truly understand electrical work.
So, how do you pick the right software? More importantly, does your current system help you track costs, manage labor, and keep projects profitable? Let’s break it down—no fluff, just real talk on what software do electrical estimators use?.
Is Winning Bids the End Goal?
Sure, landing a contract feels excellent. But if you’re not making money after the celebration, what’s the point? Many contractors focus too much on undercutting competitors to win bids, only to realize later that their Electrical Estimating Software didn’t account for real-world costs like overtime, material waste, or last-minute changes.
A study by Construction Business Owner found that nearly 30% of contractors lose money on projects due to poor estimating. That’s a scary number. If your software doesn’t help you track actual costs versus estimates, you’re flying blind. The goal isn’t just to win—it’s to win profitably.
Does Your Electrical Estimating Software Help You Stay Profitable?
Think about it: If you don’t know your exact costs, how can you tell if a project is making money? Some software spits a number without factoring in labor inefficiencies, material price hikes, or subcontractor delays.
The best Electrical Estimating Programs go beyond just bidding. They let you:
- Compare estimated vs. actual costs in real time.
- Adjust for regional labor rates and material prices.
- Flag potential overruns before they wreck your margins.
If your current system doesn’t do this, it might cost you more than you think.
Why Are So Many Non-Electrical Companies Selling Estimating Tools?
Here’s something weird: Plumbing, HVAC, and even general contracting companies push their versions of Electrical Estimating Software. But would you trust a plumber to design your electrical blueprints? Probably not.
Electrical work has unique challenges—like code compliance, load calculations, and specialized materials. A generic tool might sort of work, but it won’t be precise. That’s why you need software built by electricians for electricians.
Companies like Best Bid focus only on electrical estimating. They’re not trying to be everything to everyone—just good at one thing. And in a field where minor errors can cost thousands, that focus matters.
Should You Trust Freelance Estimators?
Outsourcing estimates might seem like a quick fix, but be careful. Many freelance services cut corners, using outdated pricing or generic templates. One contractor told me he paid a freelancer
Some companies, like Best Bid, offer vetted freelance estimators who know electrical work. But even then, the best long-term solution is to have the right electrical estimating software to control the process yourself.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Electrical Estimating Software isn’t about flashy features—it’s about finding a tool that helps you bid and profit. If your current system doesn’t track actual costs or if it’s built for plumbers pretending to understand amps and conduits, it’s time for a change.
Look for software designed specifically for electrical contractors. Test it. Make sure it adapts to your workflow, not the other way around. Winning bids is easy. Turning them into profitable jobs? That’s the real skill.
