Okay, let's break down estimating wire pull labor, especially when your historical data is unreliable. Here's a practical approach, considering NECA, conductor count, and some best practices for budgeting

The Core Question: Length vs. Length Conductor Count

Ideally, you should consider conductor count, but with adjustments. Simply multiplying length by the number of conductors overestimates the work. A 100-foot run of 10 conductors is not the same as 1000 feet of wire to handle. Here's why, and how to adjust: Handling

Multiple conductors increase the overall weight and bulk of the pull. This affects handling, setup, and feeding.

Friction

More conductors mean more friction against the conduit.

Complexity

Terminating multiple conductors takes more time.

The Practical Approach


Base Time per Foot

Start with a base time per foot from NECA (adjusted – see below). This base time is typically for a "standard" pull, often assumed to be a few conductors.2.

Conductor Count Adjustment Factor

Apply a multiplier based on the number and gauge of conductors. This is where experience and judgment come in.

Small Conductors (e.g., 14 AWG to 10 AWG)

A modest increase is often sufficient. Think of factors like 1.2x for 4-6 conductors, 1.4x for 7-10 conductors.

Larger Conductors (e.g., 8 AWG and larger)

The increase should be greater due to weight and stiffness. Here, you might use 1.5x for 4-6 conductors, and 1.75x to 2.0x for more. For very large conductors like 500 kcmil or more in the same conduit, the increase can even exceed 2.0 times the base rate.

Mix of Sizes

Use a weighted average. If you have a mix of large and small conductors, estimate the impact of each and average the multipliers.3.

Conduit Fill

Consider conduit fill. High conduit fill makes pulling much harder. Adjust your conductor count multiplier upwards if the conduit is near its maximum fill capacity.4.

Pull Complexity

Add Time for Complex Pulls.

Number of Bends

Multiply by 2-5% per 90° bend depending on the bend radius.

Offset Bends

These slow you down.

Long, Straight Pulls

Can be slightly easier than pulls with many bends if you have good access and pulling equipment.

Difficult Access

Cramped spaces, ladder work, etc. significantly increase labor.

Example

Let's say you have a 100-foot run of 6 conductors, 12 AWG.1.

NECA Base

Assume NECA devalued says 0.02 MH/ft for a "typical" wire pull. (Remember, this is a starting point and needs adjustment). That's 2 MH for the run.2.

Conductor Adjustment

You estimate the conductor adjustment factor is 1.2 because 6 is more than the assumed "typical" amount. Now the pull is 2.4MH3.

Bends

Run has two 90-degree bends. The rate is now 2.496MH

NECA Devalued and Your Historical Data NECA Devalued is a Good Starting Point

It provides a baseline for "normal" conditions. However, it's essential to adjust it based on your specific project and crews.

Address the Historical Data Problem


Identify and Exclude Outliers

Review your historical data and clearly mark any that had excessive temp labor, contractor issues, or other known inefficiencies.2.

Analyze the Remaining Data

Focus on the projects where you know the labor was reasonably efficient. Calculate the MH/ft for wire pulls on those projects.3.

Benchmark

Compare your "clean" historical data to the NECA devalued numbers. This will help you understand how your crews perform relative to the industry standard.4.

Keep Refining

As you complete new projects, carefully track labor hours and update your internal benchmarks. The goal is to build reliable historical data.5.

Time Study If NECA, and your historical data don't make sense, doing a time study would be ideal, but tough to do.

Best Practices for Estimating and Budgeting1. Detailed Scope Definition

The more detailed the scope, the more accurate your estimate. Clarify: Exact wire types and sizes. Conduit sizes and types. Specific routing (including bend quantities and types) Termination requirements (panel type, connection method, etc.). Working conditions (access, height, temperature extremes).2.

Break Down the Work

Don't just estimate wire pulls as one lump sum. Break them down into smaller, more manageable tasks. For example: Conduit installation Pulling wire Terminating wire Testing and labeling3.

Account for All Costs

Don't forget the indirect costs:

Material Handling

Moving wire reels, conduit, etc.

Setup and Cleanup

Time to set up pulling equipment, clean the work area.

Coordination

Time spent coordinating with other trades.

Travel and Transportation

If the site is remote.

Supervision

The supervisor and any time spent overseeing the project.4.

Risk Assessment and Contingency

Identify potential risks (e.g., unexpected obstructions, delays in material delivery, weather). Add a contingency to your budget to cover these risks. The amount of contingency depends on the project's complexity and the level of uncertainty.5.

Use Software Effectively



Estimating Software

Use software that allows you to create detailed estimates, track costs, and generate reports.

Project Management Software

Track actual labor hours, material costs, and project progress. Compare actuals to your estimate to identify areas where you can improve your estimating accuracy.6.

Document Your Assumptions

Clearly document all assumptions you made during the estimating process (e.g., labor rates, material prices, productivity factors). This will help you explain your estimate and track down discrepancies later.7.

Regularly Review and Update

Review your estimating process and update your labor rates, material prices, and productivity factors regularly. The electrical construction industry is constantly changing, so your estimating practices need to evolve to keep up.8.

Communication is Key

Communicate effectively with the project team, including the foreman, electricians, and project manager. Get their input on the estimate and keep them informed of any changes.9.

Consider Prefabrication

If appropriate, consider prefabricating some of the wiring assemblies. Prefabrication can save time and money on the job site. This must be planned in the estimating phase.10.

Don't Be Afraid to Ask Questions

If you're unsure about something, don't be afraid to ask questions. Talk to experienced estimators, electricians, or project managers.

In summary: Don't blindly multiply length by the number of conductors. Use a base rate (NECA devalued), adjust it for conductor count, and factor in conduit fill and complexity. Build your own historical data and refine your estimating process over time. Good luck! Flag for review