How do you price timber for a construction tender?

Timber pricing for tenders requires: (1) Accurate quantity take-off from drawings (measure every piece, don't estimate). (2) Current market prices from suppliers (get written quotes, not verbal estimates — timber prices fluctuate).

Timber pricing for tenders requires: (1) Accurate quantity take-off from drawings (measure every piece, don't estimate). (2) Current market prices from suppliers (get written quotes, not verbal estimates — timber prices fluctuate). (3) Waste allowance (5–10% for site-cut, 2–5% for pre-cut packages). (4) Delivery costs (number of loads, crane offloading if required, phased delivery premium). (5) Storage costs (temporary protection, raised bearers, security). (6) Treatment costs (if preservative treatment required). (7) Certification premium (FSC/PEFC certified stock may cost 3–8% more). (8) Price escalation clause (if tender validity exceeds 30 days, consider price fluctuation risk). Always price from current supplier quotes rather than historical rates — timber markets are volatile.

Why this matters

This question relates to Timber Tender Requirements Checklist: What Contractors Need, which covers the broader topic in detail. Understanding this specific aspect helps architects, builders, and timber dealers make informed specification decisions.

For full context and additional technical detail, see our comprehensive guide:

→ Timber Tender Requirements Checklist: What Contractors Need

Related questions

• What documentation is required for a timber tender submission?
• How should timber be specified in tender documents?
• What lead times should be allowed for timber procurement?

About this answer

This answer is part of the PuurModulair Knowledge Base — comprehensive timber specification guidance for architects, builders, and dealers across the UK, EU, and Scandinavia.