How to get more out of your fencing estimating software

TLDR

Fencing estimating software is only powerful if it is used correctly. By qualifying leads, training your team, setting up assemblies, offering options, and keeping everything connected from quote to invoice, fencing contractors can save time, reduce errors, and close more profitable jobs.

Turning fencing estimating software into a growth tool

If you already use fencing estimating software or are considering investing in it, it is easy to assume the software alone will solve your estimating problems. While good fencing estimating software can absolutely help you win more work and improve profitability, it works best when combined with the right processes.

Here are practical ways to get more value from your fencing estimating software and streamline your fencing business.

Qualify your leads before you estimate

Not every inquiry is worth a full estimate. Some people are looking for a fencing system you do not install. Others are early in the research phase or simply comparing prices.

Before opening your fencing estimating software, take time to understand who the customer is and what they are ready for. This helps you focus your energy on clients who want the fences you build and are ready to make a buying decision. You can still help other leads with ballpark pricing or guidance, but your estimating time should be spent where it has the biggest return.

Train more than one person to use the software

If only one person knows how to use your fencing estimating software, quotes will slow down as your business grows. There should always be at least one additional team member who can build estimates, even if you still review them before sending.

Good fencing estimating software should be intuitive and quick to learn. If it takes longer to train someone on the software than it does to teach them how fences are built, the software is likely too complex.

Set up your software properly from the start

If your estimating software is nothing more than a list of unit prices, you are missing most of its value. Take the time to set it up correctly.

Create assemblies for fence types and components you install regularly. Establish average labor rates, material costs, and common add ons. Even if you adjust pricing on individual jobs, having a solid foundation speeds up every quote you create.

The time you invest in setup is paid back many times over.

Always complete proper site visits

Plans and layouts only tell part of the story. A site visit reveals slope changes, vegetation, access challenges, debris, and existing fences that may need removal.

Use photos and a consistent site visit checklist to capture everything that could impact installation difficulty and pricing. The more accurate your inputs are before estimating, the more reliable your final quote will be.

Make your quotes easy to understand and visually appealing

Most customers do not understand material lists or pick sheets. If your fencing estimating software allows you to create professional looking quotes with images and descriptions, use it.

Clear visuals and detailed explanations help customers picture the finished fence on their property. When clients can visualize the result, they are more confident and more likely to move forward.

Give customers options, not ultimatums

Even confident buyers appreciate choice. Fence height, color, gate style, and privacy options all influence buying decisions.

If your fencing estimating software supports optional upgrades or alternates, use them. Giving customers controlled options makes them feel involved in the decision and increases the chance they choose a higher value solution.

Keep continuity from quote to invoice

Standalone estimating tools create extra admin work and increase the risk of mistakes. Look for fencing estimating software that allows you to move seamlessly from quote to contract to invoice using the same data.

This ensures you always know what was quoted, what materials were included, and what changes occurred. Accurate records mean accurate billing and fewer disputes.

Use cloud based estimating software

Cloud based fencing estimating software protects your data and gives you flexibility. Quotes are backed up automatically and accessible from anywhere.

Whether you are on site, in your truck, or at home, cloud access allows you to quote faster and collaborate with team members in real time. If a partner needs to review a quote, they can do so instantly without file transfers or emails.

Why Bolster is built for modern fencing contractors

If you are ready to improve how you estimate, quote, and manage fencing projects, Bolster is designed to support that transition.

Bolster allows fencing contractors to build dynamic quotes, offer live options, manage projects, and bill accurately without juggling multiple tools. Customers get an e commerce style experience while you reduce admin time and close jobs faster.