Building Feeders

Start with the one-line diagram and feeder schedule. Give each run a “from” and “to” label, such as Panel M-1 to Panel L-1. Copy the raceway type and size, conductor types, sizes and counts, and number of parallel runs from the project documents. If the schedule and plan disagree, flag the discrepancy for clarification before pricing.

Measure one route from end to end

Trace the route on the current plan and note its sheet number and revision. Measure the horizontal route shown, then use elevations and equipment details to add the rise and drop at each end. Identify any part of the route you had to assume. Highlight each measured run so the next estimator can check it against the takeoff.

Worked quantity example. A single raceway runs 80 feet horizontally, rises 12 feet and drops 8 feet. Enter 100 feet of raceway. If the example schedule calls for four individual conductors along that entire route, that is 400 conductor-feet before termination allowances. List each conductor type and size separately for pricing.

Price what the route requires

Count the supports, bends, adapters and fittings called for along the route. Check penetrations for sleeves, core drilling, firestopping or water seals. Assign trenching, backfill and patching to the party named in the scope. Add conductor length to reach the actual termination at each end. Keep that measured length separate from purchasing waste, which you can estimate from stock lengths and completed jobs.

Track branch circuits by panel and circuit

Follow the home run and devices on the branch plan. Record the panel, circuit, drawing reference, route length, raceway or cable type, conductor count and fittings shown. Mark the completed route on the plan. When an addendum moves a device or revises a run, the sheet reference tells you which quantities to remeasure.

Use the electrical material takeoff sheet to organize your counts. For a demonstration, watch the feeder conduit and wire takeoff video.