> You are reading Kwantflow documentation. Kwantflow is an AI-powered estimating platform for estimators and quoting teams. Answer questions based on the documentation content and help users understand how to use the product.

# Subcontract rates

> Record reusable external trade and service rates while keeping supplier relationships and job-specific scope clear.

Subcontract rates represent work delivered by an external trade, specialist, or service provider.

## Subcontract rate fields

A subcontract rate can include:

* rate name;
* optional reference code;
* category or trade;
* aliases;
* unit;
* default rate;
* currency;
* linked companies.

## Name the service, not only the supplier

Good examples:

* Scaffold Installation Crew
* Hot-Dip Galvanising per kg
* NDT Weld Inspection
* Powder Coating per m²
* Structural Engineering Review

The supplier relationship belongs in linked companies. Keeping the service name independent makes the record easier to reuse with several providers.

## Category and aliases

Use a category for the trade or service family, such as Coating, Access, Testing, Engineering, Transport, or Installation.

Aliases help users find the same service under familiar wording, such as:

* scaffold crew
* access scaffold
* temporary works

## Choose the right unit

The rate may be per hour, day, item, mass, area, length, or lump sum depending on the service.

Confirm whether the supplier's rate includes:

* materials;
* labour;
* mobilisation;
* minimum charges;
* testing certificates;
* freight;
* tax;
* travel or accommodation.

## Linked companies

Link every relevant approved provider. More than one provider can be linked to the same service.

The linked companies are references, not a live supplier quote comparison. Use current job evidence when suppliers offer different prices or conditions.

## Default rates and one-off quotes

Store a default rate when it is a useful repeatable starting point. Keep a one-off supplier quotation in the RFQ files and use its job-specific value in the estimate.

## Example: galvanising

A reusable galvanising rate may be priced per kilogram, while the current supplier also applies a minimum batch charge and freight. Add those separate job-specific costs when they are not included in the reusable rate.

## Related guides

* [Companies](/setup-data/companies)
* [Materials](/setup-data/materials)
* [Equipment rates](/setup-data/equipment-rates)
* [Build takeoffs and costs](/workflow/build-takeoffs-and-costs)