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How to Send an Estimate to a Customer

Most estimates are opened on a phone. Send yours where the customer actually reads messages, with a short note that makes saying yes easy.

Updated October 27, 2026 · Written for small contractors and trade crews

Send it the same day

Speed wins jobs. If you can, send it from the driveway before you leave.

Text first, email as a copy

A text gets read within minutes; email is better as the copy the customer keeps. WhatsApp works well for customers who use it every day.

What to say

Sending the estimateHi James, thanks for having me out today. Here is the estimate for the panel upgrade: [link]. It is good for 30 days. If it looks right, you can approve it right from the link.

Follow-up after 2–3 daysHi James, just checking in on the panel upgrade estimate. Happy to answer any questions or adjust anything.

Make approving one tap

A PDF the customer has to print and sign slows everything down. In Selk the estimate link has an Approve button; the customer types their name and you get a notification.

Questions

Should I send an estimate as a PDF?

A PDF is fine as the record. A link the customer can open and approve on their phone gets answered faster.

Keep reading

Estimate app How to write an estimate How to follow up on an estimate All guides ›

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