How a Steel Structure Project Moves from Drawings to Erection

A steel structure project moves through five stages: document review and technical checklist, quantity take-off and technical proposal, detailed quotation and schedule, contract and production, and then inspection, delivery and erection. Each stage has a decision the buyer must make, and the project runs smoothly only when the drawings, scope and schedule are fixed before fabrication starts.

Document review and technical checklist

The process starts with the client’s drawings. Most projects send PDF or DWG files, or a Tekla model when the detailing is already done. The engineering team reviews the feasibility of the design, the materials and the connection methods, and then prepares a technical checklist. This checklist is the first place where missing information shows up, such as unclear load cases, undefined roof coverings or missing connection details.

Quantity take-off and technical proposal

The drawings are analyzed in Tekla, SAP2000 and AutoCAD to extract the main frame and secondary frame quantities, plus accessories such as base plates and anchor bolts. At this stage the technical proposal can also suggest changes that reduce steel weight or cut welding and cutting work, while keeping the material within the applicable standards, such as TCVN, ASTM or JIS. Any change is shown to the client before it is priced, so the design intent stays the same.

Detailed quotation and schedule

A quotation is only comparable when its scope is clear. At Truong Thinh, the quotation presents materials, fabrication and erection as separate items, together with the production, inspection and delivery timeline. We issue steel structure quotations within 24 working hours of receiving a complete enquiry, so a buyer can compare offers on the same basis. If you want to see what a complete enquiry should contain, our steel structure quotation guide lists the items to include.

Contract, drawing approval and production

Production starts only after the technical drawings and the schedule are agreed. This is the main control point of the project: once the shop drawings are approved, changes become expensive. In our factory, the steel is processed on automated lines, with engineers supervising each step and the quality control team checking the work before it moves on.

Inspection, delivery and erection

Before delivery, the quality control department inspects dimensions, welds and coatings according to AWS D1.1. Each product is labeled, packaged and transported to the site, so the crew can find and install the right member in the right position. For erection, the sequence and the temporary stability of the frame should be agreed in advance. For the design, inspection and acceptance support that continues through this stage, see our technical support services.

What the buyer should prepare

• Drawings in PDF, DWG or Tekla format, or a clear sketch with spans and bay spacing
• Design loads, the applicable code and any crane or equipment loads
• The scope you need: fabrication only, design with fabrication, or fabrication with erection
• Target delivery or erection date and the site access conditions
• Packing, transport and documentation requirements for export projects

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a steel structure quotation take?

Truong Thinh issues steel structure quotations within 24 working hours of receiving a complete enquiry. The quotation is based on the drawings and the scope stated in the enquiry, so incomplete information can extend the review.

When is production approved?

Production starts after the technical drawings and the delivery schedule are agreed. Changes after approval can affect cost and delivery, so the design should be settled at this stage.

Does Truong Thinh provide warranty after delivery?

Yes. Main structures, including columns, are covered by a 12-month warranty, and trusses and beams carry a 12-month standard warranty, with extended options depending on the project scale.

When your drawings or scope are ready, request a fabrication quotation. Share the drawings, tonnage, destination and target schedule, and our engineers will return an itemized quotation.