Question

Can I create an estimate form template that includes specific line items?

Forum|Forum|5 years ago
January 9, 2021
3 replies
88 views

I have a landscape business and do lots of estimate. They generally fall into categories that all have the same basic line items. For instance, lawn mowing will always have mowing, and treatments. Landscaping will always have labor, mulch, etc. Can I create separate estimate forms with the line items filled in so that they will update those products or services in QBO when I fill in the quantity and price numbers?

QuickBooks Online

MichelleBh

Level 8

Hi there, @usersrstephentn.

I'll share some learning about estimates in QuickBooks Online (QBO).

Yes, both questions. You can create an Estimate template with the line items filled in using the Recurring transaction. That way, they will update products or services in QBO when you fill in the quantity and price numbers.

Let me guide you how:

Go to the Plus icon, then chose Estimates.
Complete all the necessary data in the field.
Hit the Make Recurring button on the bottom part.
In the Type drop-down arrow, choose Unschedule. So, you're able to copy and edit the customer's name anytime you need it.
Tap Save Template.

For more information, check out these articles:

I've added some articles about importing templates, memorizing reports, and other topics.

Please let me know if you have any more questions or concerns. I'm only a Reply away. Have a good rest of your day!

U

usersrstephentnAuthor

I finally got to try this out and I'm not sure this is what I need. I went into the Recurring Transaction area and could not save a template without put a customer in.

The templates I want to create are for any customer, or in many cases, a potential customer. The idea is to have the line items filled in so that the quantity for each line item is the only thing that needs to be filled in.

How can I create a template the is pre-populated with line items?

K

karver35

So I think I found something that will work. I was in the same boat, trying to build an estimate template for a residential construction builder. So this is what I did. I created a bogus company named "Template Customer," then created an estimate, selected the Template Customer, then typed in all potential line items, with 0 as quantity, and the rate amount to whatever is appropriate. So this way, there is no actual estimate out there messing with your account (since it will be a $0 total amount). Then when you want to create a new estimate, select this Template Customer estimate, hit "more," then "copy" down on the bottom, and rename it and select the current customer. This seems to work! Let me know if it works for you.

This kinda works, the issue is you can't label the estimates. So you either have to remember what # estimate corresponds to which service, or you need to click through a whole bunch looking for the right one your trying to use.

D

DKalinec

*** Solution ***

Hello. I had the same issue, and I believe i have found what you are looking for. Go to Sales on the menu and click on the product and services tab. Then click the New button in the upper right area, and then click on bundle. You can then make an "item" with multiple items or services. So create a lawn mowing bundle with the mowing and treatment in one bundle that you can add to any customer/estimate.