CSI Division 05
Metals Bid Management for Contractors
How can structural steel contractors win commercial bids?
Steel bids hinge on tonnage, connections, and erection logistics. Get the takeoff right and the schedule realistic, and you'll win at margin.
Trades inside Division 05
- • Structural steel
- • Steel joists
- • Metal decking
- • Miscellaneous metals
What's in Division 05
Structural steel framing, steel joists and decking, cold-formed metal framing, and miscellaneous metals (railings, stairs, ladders).
What separates winning steel bids
Detailed connection pricing, realistic crane and erection logistics, fabrication lead time built into the schedule, and accurate AESS upcharges for architecturally exposed steel.
How SMC runs this bid desk
Smart Movers Club operates an outsourced bid department for contractors in this division: we source qualified opportunities, run go/no-go qualification, review compliance and bonding requirements, coordinate the estimate, write and submit the proposal, and follow up after bid day.
Next steps
Frequently asked questions
What CSI division is structural steel?
Division 05 — including structural framing, joists, decking, cold-formed framing, and miscellaneous metals.
How do steel contractors price connections?
Per the connection schedule on structural drawings, with allowances for typical shop and field welds and bolts.
Can BidEngine help with steel bids?
Yes — it pulls tonnage, schedule of materials, and AESS callouts from structural drawings and specs automatically.