Overview
A generic estimate (shown as Generic Estimate in the list) is for line-item pricing without the fence design tool. This guide covers create through customer acceptance.
Create estimate → Services → Proposal steps → Submit → Job
Where in the app: Estimates → New Estimate (generic)
Open: New Estimate · Estimates
Step 1: Select customer
Search existing customers or add a new one. The selected customer owns the estimate and is the primary recipient when you send the proposal.
Use Change on the customer card if you picked the wrong person.
See Add a customer.
Step 2: Project details
| Field | Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Project Name | Yes | Short label for lists and reports |
| Job Site | Yes | Where the work happens |
| Project Description | No | Internal and proposal context |
| Salesperson | No | Defaults from your session |
| Submission Deadline | No | Internal planning date |
| Quote valid for (days) | No | Expiration on the customer-facing proposal |
On-site visit fields are not on generic estimates.
Step 3: Services
Use the + control to add line items from My Services or catalog products.
| Area | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Service lines | Labor, materials, fees; optional items can be toggled for the customer |
| Note to customer | Message on the customer-facing proposal (separate from Project Description) |
| Payment terms | Deposit and milestones; use the help icon beside payment terms for details |
Step 4: Save and Continue
| Action | When to use |
|---|---|
| Save and Continue | Validates required fields and opens proposal steps |
| Save as Draft | Keeps the record while you finish the service list |
Required for Save and Continue: Project Name and Job Site.
Generic estimates skip the fence design tool. You go straight to proposal steps.
You can return to edit lines from the estimate detail or Summary step before sending.
Step 5: Proposal steps
Use the step bar across the top of finalize screens. See Proposal steps for each screen.
| Step | Generic estimate focus |
|---|---|
| Summary | Review project info and line summary |
| Materials | Line items and pricing (no designer takeoffs) |
| Totals | Tax, deposit, quote expiration |
| Documents | Cover letter and attachments |
| Submit | Send proposal |
Labor and Expenses appear when your quote scope includes installation; many generic quotes use Materials and Totals only.
Step 6: Send and convert
Send to customer, then Convert to job when accepted.
Fence vs generic
| Fence estimate | Generic estimate | |
|---|---|---|
| Layout drawing | Yes | No |
| List label | Fence Estimate | Generic Estimate |
| Best for | Installed fence with takeoffs | Services, fees, non-layout work |
See Fence estimate workflow for layout-based quotes.