Estimate first
Use this calculation internally to test feasibility before creating a polished quotation or proposal.
Free project pricing tool
Free Project Cost Calculator
Build a transparent project cost estimate from tasks, hours, rates, direct expenses, contingency, tax, and discounts.
No registrationAutomatic calculationsPrint a clean estimate
Estimate details
Labor
TaskHoursRateAmount
Adjustments
A project estimate is easier to defend when the calculation separates effort, rates, direct expenses, uncertainty, tax, and discounts instead of presenting one unexplained number.
Build estimates from delivery reality
Break the project into tasks
Estimate discovery, production, communication, reviews, testing, handover, and project management separately.
Use an internal sustainable rate
Your rate should support operating costs, non-billable time, reserves, and profit.
Include direct expenses
Add licenses, subcontractors, travel, printing, materials, hosting, or other costs specific to the project.
Document assumptions
State the content, access, feedback, revisions, and approvals on which the estimate depends.
Track actuals later
Compare the planned hours and costs with the completed project to improve future estimates.
Frequently asked questions
What should be included in a project cost estimate?
Include labor, direct expenses, subcontractors, contingency, applicable tax, discounts, and any other cost required to deliver the agreed outcome.
What is a contingency allowance?
It is a planned percentage added for uncertainty such as small changes, estimation error, or unexpected delivery costs.
Should profit be included in hourly rates or separately?
Either approach can work, but avoid accidentally omitting profit. Your internal rate should already support a sustainable business or you should add an explicit margin.
Is the calculated total a binding quotation?
No. It is an estimate based on your inputs. Review the scope, assumptions, taxes, and commercial terms before sending a formal quote.
Can I print the estimate?
Yes. The formatted estimate can be printed or saved as a PDF.