Project Estimate Calculator
Build a defensible fixed-fee quote for a freelance project. Hours, rate, scope-creep buffer, expenses. The number you actually quote — and a deposit suggestion.
Effective rate at estimated hours: $130/hr
50% deposit
$2,600
Balance due on delivery
$2,600
Audit your quote after delivery
Run the Project Profit Calculator after every fixed-fee project to see if you hit your target rate. Flowly tracks hours automatically so the audit takes 30 seconds.
Start free 14-day trialHow to quote a fixed-fee project
The five-step quote: (1) write the deliverable in one sentence, (2) break it into rough work blocks (research, draft, revision, polish), (3) estimate hours per block from your honest worst-case past performance, (4) multiply total hours × target rate, (5) add 20-30% scope buffer and any project-specific expenses. Quote the final number.
The most common mistake: using your best-case time estimate (because you want to be competitive) and skipping the buffer. The work always takes longer than best case. Build that reality into the quote.