A Bill of Quantities (BOQ) is essential for estimating materials, labor, and total costs in any chain link fencing project. A properly calculated BOQ prevents material shortage, overspending, and installation delays.
This guide explains exactly how to prepare a perfect BOQ for chain link fencing—whether you’re a contractor, builder, or fencing service provider.
What is a Chain Link Fencing BOQ?
A BOQ (Bill of Quantities) is a structured document that lists all materials, quantities, and specifications needed for a fencing project.
It typically includes:
Mesh
Posts
Rails
Tension wire
Concrete
Accessories
Labor charges
An accurate BOQ ensures cost accuracy, smooth execution, and better customer trust.
Step-by-Step: How to Create a Perfect Chain Link Fencing BOQ
Step 1: Measure the Fence Perimeter
Accurate measurement is the base of BOQ.
Formula:
Example:
Side A = 50m
Side B = 30m
Side C = 50m
Side D = 30m
Total = 160m
Step 2: Select Fence Height & Mesh Size
Common heights: 4ft, 5ft, 6ft, 8ft
Mesh sizes: 25×25mm, 40×40mm, 50×50mm
This determines mesh rolls required.
Roll calculation:
Most rolls come in 10m or 15m lengths.
Step 3: Calculate the Number of Posts
Line Posts
Standard spacing: 2.5m to 3m apart
Corner Posts
1 corner post per corner
(usually 4 for rectangle)
End Posts
Used at start/end of fencing line.
Step 4: Determine Top Rails & Bottom Rails (If Used)
Top rail = Total length of fencing
Bottom rail (optional) prevents sagging.
Step 5: Add Tension Wire Requirements
Required at:
Top
Bottom
Middle (optional)
Calculation:
Step 6: Concrete Volume Calculation
Concrete required per post approx.:
0.028 to 0.045 m³ based on pit size
e.g., 1.5 ft × 1 ft × 1 ft pit
Formula:
Step 7: Include Accessories
Important accessories include:
GI wire
Clamps
Tension bands
Binding wire
Gate kit
Bolts & nuts
Accessories are listed as per required count.
Step 8: Add Labor Charges
Labor cost depends on:
Terrain
Height
Mesh type
Distance
Usually calculated per running meter.
Step 9: Add Wastage (2–5%)
Wastage covers unexpected usage during installation.
Table 1: Standard BOQ Material List for Chain Link Fencing
| Item | Specification | Quantity (Example 100m) |
|---|---|---|
| Chain link mesh | 50×50mm, 10m rolls | 10 rolls |
| Line posts | 8ft height | 33 posts |
| Corner posts | 8ft height | 4 posts |
| End posts | 8ft height | 2 posts |
| Top rail | 32mm OD | 100m |
| Tension wire | 12 gauge | 200m (top & bottom) |
| Concrete | 1:4:8 mix | 1.2 – 1.8 m³ |
| Binding wire | GI | 4–6 kg |
| Clamps, bolts | Standard | As required |
| Gate | 4ft–6ft | Optional |
Table 2: Example BOQ Summary for 100m Fencing
| Component | Calculation | Final Qty |
|---|---|---|
| Total mesh | 100m ÷ 10m | 10 rolls |
| Line posts | 100m ÷ 3m | 33 posts |
| Corner posts | Fixed | 4 |
| Concrete | 0.04 × 39 posts | 1.56 m³ |
| Tension wire | 100m × 2 lines | 200m |
| Binding wire | Fixed | 5 kg |
| Misc. accessories | Estimate | 1 set |
Tips for Creating a Professional BOQ
Always add fence layout drawing
Mention material grades (galvanized, PVC-coated, heavy gauge)
Specify pipe thickness & OD size
Include site condition notes
Add tax, transport & installation charges
Provide validity period for BOQ pricing
Conclusion
Preparing an accurate Chain Link Fencing BOQ ensures smooth execution, proper budgeting, and professional project planning.
By following measurements, spacing standards, and material calculations, you can deliver reliable and error-free fencing estimates every time.
