A Training Guide for Working with Estimating in iTrade
- Dom iTrade
- Sep 1
- 3 min read
The Estimating Module in iTrade helps you quote faster , present your services more professionally, and convert accepted quotes into jobs or projects with minimal admin.
Whether quoting for a small repair or a multi-stage project, this module keeps your workflow smooth and your margins protected.
Check out the full video tutorial or our step-by-step guide here.
SETTING YOUR ESTIMATE DEFAULTS
Before creating quotes, head to the Options tab to set your preferences. You can choose how customers see pricing, from one total price to itemised breakdowns per schedule or full visibility into time and materials. You’ll also control how tax appears, set default expiry timeframes, and configure automated reminders or archiving rules.
Want to include your terms and conditions, branding, or supplier logos on every quote? Upload those once here, and iTrade will attach them automatically. You can also set the default reply-to email and even send yourself a copy of each quote for your records. If you need to focus on profitability, you can set minimum margin protection to avoid underquoting.
CREATING SCHEDULES
Schedules are the building blocks of an estimate; they define what’s included in the job. Think of them as reusable quote components that include the scope of work, materials, labour, and optional upgrades.
When creating a schedule template, you’ll add:
A clear description of the scope (bullet points)
Any relevant images (e.g. a product reference)
Material and labour pricing, with the ability to control margins
Optional extras for upselling (like a higher-end fitting or upgrade)
Email functionality to request pricing or place orders with suppliers
Once saved, these schedule templates can be dropped into any quote, helping you build detailed, professional estimates in less time.
USING QUOTE TEMPLATES
Quote templates allow you to combine multiple schedules into a ready-to-use format. They’re perfect for quoting repeat jobs or standardising your team’s process.
Each template includes your business intro, saved schedules, any disclaimers or exclusions, and final sign-off text. You can also attach standard documents and include internal-only notes under the Misc section, which stays hidden from customers.
BUILDING AND SENDING QUOTES
To create a quote, simply select a customer and site, choose between an estimate or a formal quote, and either apply a template or start fresh.
You can:
Adjust expiry dates, tax display, and pricing format
Edit the introduction and footnotes
Add or remove schedules
Attach custom files like plans, specs, or terms
When you're ready, send it as a PDF or an interactive link. The link lets customers select options, accept terms, leave comments, and approve the quote online, all with just a few clicks. You'll be notified as soon as they take action or even just open the quote.
TURNING QUOTES INTO JOBS OR PROJECTS
Once accepted, a quote can be converted directly into a job or project. iTrade carries over all relevant data, from materials and attachments to customer-selected options. You can lock the quote to ensure it reflects exactly what was sent and even create variations later if the customer requests changes mid-project.
All quotes are saved for seven years, giving you a complete record of your quoting history.
WHY IT MATTERS
With iTrade’s Estimating Module, you’re not just building quotes, you’re building a smarter, more scalable business. By using templates and saved schedules, you save time. By adding upsell options, you increase revenue. And by converting quotes into jobs seamlessly, you eliminate admin headaches.
NEED EXTRA SUPPORT?
Get help with Estimating in iTrade
Did we mention every new trial is entitled to a free 1-hour screen sharing training session? If you haven't already taken advantage of this please email us to arrange a suitable day and time – try iTrade today for free.
Need some more training? When you convert to a permanent paid account, you are entitled to another hour of free training. We can also provide paid, in-depth training for you and your team for $105 per hour. Please email training@itrade.net with your preferred date & time (give us a few days' warning) and your contact number, and we’ll call you back.
And remember, email support is free, so simply contact us at support@itrade.net with any questions you may have.