How to Add Base and Minimum Materials Cost

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Overview

You can add a base materials cost or a minimum materials cost to a line item. This is useful when there is a minimum callout cost or minimum price, for example from a subcontractor, for a task you need to do. If the item's materials cost doesn't reach the minimum, the minimum materials cost is used instead.

Open the Item's Materials Options

1. In the left-hand menu, click Jobs.
2. Click Job list and select the estimate. You can also click Pipeline and select it from there.
3. In the estimate, click the cube icon on the line item (for example, Countertop). The item's details open.
4. Click Unit pricing to expand it.
5. Next to Materials costs, click Materials options.

Add a Base or Minimum Materials Cost

1. Under the materials options, click one of the following:

• Add base materials cost: For setup costs or base costs that are not multiplied by the quantity. This acts as a one-time charge per item.
• Add minimum materials cost: Sets the lowest materials cost for the item.

2. In the field that appears, enter the amount:

• What is the base cost for this materials item? The total materials cost is the base cost plus the materials cost multiplied by the quantity.
• What is the minimum materials cost for this item?

Tips & Best Practices

• Use a Minimum for Small Jobs: If your estimate for an item doesn't reach a certain threshold, the minimum materials cost kicks in so you still cover your minimum price.

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Why This Matters

• You can cover minimum callout costs or minimum prices, such as from a subcontractor, even on small quantities.
• A base materials cost lets you add a one-time setup charge that doesn't change with quantity.

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Summary

To add a base or minimum materials cost, click the cube icon on the line item, expand Unit pricing, and click Materials options next to Materials costs. Click Add base materials cost or Add minimum materials cost, then enter the amount.