A clear list of steel structure components is the quickest way to get comparable quotations. When every supplier prices the same items, price differences reflect real choices rather than misunderstandings.
Why a list of steel structure components matters
A drawing shows what the building looks like, while a component list defines what is to be supplied. Without a list, one bidder may include purlins and bolts and another may leave them out. The result is a quotation that looks cheaper but is not complete. Our guide to an accurate RFQ explains the wider structure.
Group components by role
Divide the list into groups so that nothing is missed.
Primary members
Columns, rafters, beams, trusses and crane runway beams. These carry the main loads and are usually made by a steel column fabrication and steel beam fabrication process in the workshop.
Secondary members
Purlins, girts, eave struts, sag rods and bracing. These carry cladding loads and stabilise the frame. Buyers often source them from steel purlin manufacturers, or from the same workshop as the frames.
Connections and fixings
Base plates, anchor bolts, splice plates, bolts, nuts and washers. State the grade and the quantity, or say that the supplier should calculate them.
Accessories
Stair, platforms, ladders, handrails, louvres, gutters and canopies, where included.
Finishes and documents
Surface preparation, paint or galvanizing, marking, packing and documents. Our steel structure components page shows these groups in more detail.
State quantities and weights carefully
Give estimated weights per group, or ask each bidder to provide them. A weight table helps the buyer compare offers and also helps to plan transport. See steel structure cost guide for what shapes the final price.
State what is not included
Write down the exclusions clearly. Common exclusions are foundations, cladding, insulation, erection, crane, site welding and transport to site. If you want a supplier to price an item, name it.
Tie the list to drawings and specification
Refer each group to a drawing number and a specification clause, such as the steel grade and the coating system. For the drawing types, see steel structure drawings explained.
Use the list in the evaluation
When offers arrive, compare them against the same list. A steel structure supplier that leaves lines empty should be asked to confirm whether the item is excluded or forgotten. The same list also helps for a steel structure for warehouse project, where roof and wall secondary members form a large share of the order. For a general reference, see the entry on structural steel.
Example structure of a component list
A simple table works well. Each row has an item number, the description, the section or plate size, the steel grade, the quantity or weight and the drawing reference. Group rows under the headings above, so that primary members, secondary members, fixings and accessories are easy to find.
For a steel structure for warehouse project, a short list might read: portal frame columns and rafters, eave struts, roof purlins, wall girts, roof and wall bracing, base plates and anchor bolts, flashing supports, and a loading dock canopy. Adding the coating system and the packing standard at the end of the list completes the scope.
Common gaps in material lists
- Fixings left out because the drawing shows only members
- Base plates and anchor bolts assigned to no one
- Temporary bracing and erection aids not mentioned
- Touch-up paint and coating repair omitted
- Documents and inspection records not listed
Close each gap by naming the supplier responsible. See the lead time guide and the member marking guide for related points.
Keeping the list current
Revise the list when drawings change and record the revision. If one bidder priced revision A and another revision B, their offers are not comparable. A list that is kept current becomes the basis for the packing list and for acceptance on arrival.
Send us your drawings and we will return a component list with assumptions. request a fabrication quotation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to list every bolt?
Not necessarily. You can ask the supplier to calculate fixings from the design, but state the grade and who is responsible.
Should weights be included in the list?
Yes. Weights by group make comparison and transport planning easier.
Who prepares the component list?
The designer or the buyer’s engineer normally prepares it. A fabricator can help to check it for completeness.
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