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:
- You need to quote a specific price regardless of individual item costs.
- You’ve negotiated a package deal that differs from the sum of individual items.
- You want to simplify multiple line items into one rounded number.
- You’re providing a ballpark estimate rather than a detailed breakdown.
Enabling Custom Subtotal
- When creating or editing an estimate, add all your materials and services as usual.
- In the totals section, locate the subtotal line.
- Click the “Edit” (pencil) icon next to the subtotal amount.
- In the “Custom Subtotal” modal that appears, enter your desired subtotal amount.
- Click “Save” to apply this custom subtotal.
- 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:
- Individual item markups are ignored in the calculation.
- The profit is calculated as: Custom Subtotal - Total Cost (materials + labor).
- The profit visualization updates to reflect this new calculation.
- Markup percentages on individual items will be disabled (grayed out).
Returning to Calculated Subtotals
If you decide to return to the standard calculated subtotal:
- Click the “Reset” (circular arrow) icon next to the custom subtotal.
- The system will revert to calculating the subtotal based on individual item quantities, prices, and markups.
- Individual markup fields will become editable again.
Custom Subtotals and Reporting
Important considerations for custom subtotals:
- When using custom subtotals, detailed profit breakdowns between materials and labor may be less accurate.
- The overall profit amount is still correct, but the distribution between materials and labor is estimated.
- For the most detailed profit tracking, standard calculated subtotals are recommended.