How to Create Quotes Offline on Remote Job Sites

Many jobs are in basements, new buildings or remote areas where the signal drops out. If your quoting tool depends on the internet, you end up writing notes and trying to remember everything later. Working offline avoids that delay.

What should work offline

Look for a tool that lets you do the following without a connection:

• View your existing quotations and client details
• Create and edit quotations
• Calculate totals, tax and discounts
• Generate a PDF

Sending the file needs a connection, of course, but the work itself doesn't have to.

A simple on-site routine

1. Measure and take photos while you're with the client.
2. Create the quotation before you leave, while the details are fresh.
3. Review it with the client in person if you can. Questions get answered immediately.
4. Save the PDF to your phone.
5. Send it as soon as you have signal.

If you have no signal, tell the client: "I've prepared your quotation and I'll send it this evening when I've got a connection."

Prepare before you go

• Keep your company details and logo set up.
• Note your usual material prices, as you won't be able to check a supplier's website.
• Use a past quotation for similar work as a starting point.
• Charge your phone, and carry a power bank on long days.

Be careful with prices

If you can't check a current supplier price offline, use a short validity period or wait to confirm that item before you send. Don't guess at an expensive material just to be fast.

Back up when you can

Data kept on one phone is only as safe as that phone. Save a backup regularly, especially before travel to rough sites.

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