What is Quantity Take Off
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What is a Quantity Take-Off (QTO)?
A Quantity Take-Off (QTO) is the measured list of all materials, components, and resources required to deliver a construction project. It is the first and most critical step before pricing and forms the foundation of a professional Bill of Quantities (BOQ). From the drawings and specs, every measurable item—concrete, reinforcement, blockwork, plaster, doors, windows, finishes—is carefully quantified and recorded.
Why Quantity Take-Offs Matter
Accurate QTOs save time and money by preventing shortages, excess orders, and cost overruns. They also enable fair, like-for-like tendering because each bidder prices the same measured scope. At Brand BOA, our QTOs are precise, traceable back to drawings, and laid out so they can be verified against local market rates anywhere in the world.
Example of a Quantity Take-Off
Imagine a medium-sized house. From the plans, we measure wall areas, slab volumes, and reinforcement lengths, then translate those into materials. Below is a simplified extract to show the idea (your live project will include more trades, line items, locations, and notes for full traceability).
| Item Description | Unit | Quantity | Source (Drawing / Note) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Concrete (Foundations C25/30) | m³ | 25.0 | STR-FND-01; footing schedule |
| Reinforcement Steel (Foundations) | kg | 1,200 | BAR BENDING SCHEDULE; STR-FND-01 |
| Brick/Blockwork (230 mm external walls) | m² | 120 | GA-PLN-01 to 03; elevations E-01/02 |
| Cement for Plaster (internal) | Bags | 45 | Spec Section 09 Finishes; wall areas |
Note: Once the QTO is confirmed, we apply current market rates to build your BOQ and cost estimate.