Free Estimate Generator

Frequently Asked Questions

Get quick answers about creating, sending and using estimates.

• What is an estimate?

  An estimate shows the work you expect to do and the likely cost before the job begins. It can include quantities, prices, taxes, discounts, assumptions, terms and a date for your customer to respond.

• What should I include in an estimate?

  Include your business and customer details, the work or items being estimated, quantities and prices. Add taxes or discounts when they apply. You can also include assumptions, terms and a response deadline when they matter to the job.

• What is the difference between an estimate and a quote?

  An estimate shows the expected work and likely cost. A quote presents a specific offer with a price, scope, validity period and terms.

• What is the difference between an estimate and an invoice?

  An estimate shows the expected work and likely cost before you bill the customer. An invoice asks the customer to pay. In Docelf, you can create an invoice from an estimate instead of entering the customer, items and prices again.

• How can I create a more accurate estimate?

  Start with a clear scope of work and include the tasks, materials, quantities and prices you expect. Use past jobs and current pricing as a reference. State any assumptions that could affect the final cost, then review the estimate before you send it.

• Can my customer accept or decline an estimate online?

  Yes. When you email an estimate from Docelf, your customer can accept or decline it online. Docelf updates the estimate status and emails you when they respond. You can also see when the estimate was delivered and opened.

• What happens after my customer accepts the estimate?

  You can create an invoice from the estimate in Docelf. Docelf copies the relevant customer, item, price and document details into the new invoice, so you do not have to enter them again.