Sometimes you need more control over how your estimate subtotals are calculated. VoltPro's custom subtotal feature gives you this flexibility.

When to Use Custom Subtotals

Custom subtotals are useful when:

1. You need to quote a specific price regardless of individual item costs.

2. You've negotiated a package deal that differs from the sum of individual items.

3. You want to simplify multiple line items into one rounded number.

4. You're providing a ballpark estimate rather than a detailed breakdown.

Enabling Custom Subtotal

1. When creating or editing an estimate, add all your materials and services as usual.

2. In the totals section, locate the subtotal line.

3. Click the "Edit" (pencil) icon next to the subtotal amount.

4. In the "Custom Subtotal" modal that appears, enter your desired subtotal amount.

5. Click "Save" to apply this custom subtotal.

6. Notice that the subtotal now shows your custom amount, and a "Reset" icon appears.

How Custom Subtotals Affect Markup

When you use a custom subtotal:

1. Individual item markups are ignored in the calculation.

2. The profit is calculated as: Custom Subtotal - Total Cost (materials + labor).

3. The profit visualization updates to reflect this new calculation.

4. Markup percentages on individual items will be disabled (grayed out).

Returning to Calculated Subtotals

If you decide to return to the standard calculated subtotal:

1. Click the "Reset" (circular arrow) icon next to the custom subtotal.

2. The system will revert to calculating the subtotal based on individual item quantities, prices, and markups.

3. Individual markup fields will become editable again.

Custom Subtotals and Reporting

Important considerations for custom subtotals:

1. When using custom subtotals, detailed profit breakdowns between materials and labor may be less accurate.

2. The overall profit amount is still correct, but the distribution between materials and labor is estimated.

3. For the most detailed profit tracking, standard calculated subtotals are recommended.