Material Cost Calculator
Sum line-item material quantities and unit costs with optional sales tax. Quick supply list total for bids and shopping.
Assumptions
- Unit costs exclude tax unless you itemize tax separately.
- Quantities match the units on your price list (each, lf, sf, etc.).
- No automatic waste factor — add it to quantities first.
- Delivery fees are not included unless added as line items.
- Currency is USD for display formatting.
Line total = quantity × unit cost. Subtotal = sum of lines. Total = subtotal × (1 + tax%).20 studs at $4.50, 5 lb screws at $8.99, 8% tax
- Subtotal = (20×4.50) + (5×8.99) = 90 + 44.95 = $134.95. Tax = $10.80. Total ≈ $145.75.
How to measure
Build your list from takeoff quantities. Enter each SKU or material name with quantity and unit price from supplier quotes or receipts.
Common mistakes
- Mixing tax-included and tax-excluded unit prices.
- Using box price without converting to per-piece quantity.
- Forgetting fasteners and consumables that add up on large jobs.
Frequently asked questions
Should I add waste to quantities first?
Yes. Use the waste factor calculator, then enter adjusted quantities here.
Can I export the list?
Copy results from the calculator page for your spreadsheet or bid template.
Bulk discount tiers?
Enter the unit price that matches your expected purchase quantity.
Include labor?
This is materials only. Use labor markup or project budget for full bids.