Map Metra

RateBuild 4: Importing and using rates

Part 4 of the RateBuild series. Import construction rates from a spreadsheet, split supply and fix prices into labour and materials, and price an estimate line with a built-up rate in Map Metra. Everything shown can also be done by asking the Map Metra connector in Claude or ChatGPT.

How to

  1. 1

    Importing a spreadsheet

    Choose Import, then choose a file. A spreadsheet needs columns for the category, code, description, quantity and unit, and for each line, its name, quantity, unit, rate and type.

  2. 2

    The imported rates

    Choose Import. The rates arrive in their own category, ready to use.

  3. 3

    Splitting a price

    Open the code. The unclassified line waits at the bottom.

  4. 4

    Build rates from notes

    Save the code. Ask builds rates from notes you paste in, such as a scope note or a supplier email.

  5. 5

    Using a rate in the Estimate

    In the Estimate, the floor tiling line is measured at seventy six point three square metres. Choose the RateBuild button in its rate cell, and search the library for tiling.

  6. 6

    Assigning the rate

    Double-click the code. The line's type changes to Build, its rate is one hundred and forty three dollars thirty four, and its cost updates.

  7. 7

    The saved breakdown

    Open the line's breakdown to see the rate it was priced with, line by line. The price stays at this saved rate, even if the library changes later, until you choose to reapply it.