Free trade pricing tool

Markup and margin calculator for construction and trade quotes.

Compare a percentage markup with the selling price needed to hit a target margin. Use it to sense-check job pricing before you build the full quote.

UK £ pricingMarkup explainedTarget marginIndicative profit

Inputs

Check the pricing maths

Markup vs margin

Same cost, different pricing decisions.

Direct cost£2,500.00
Markup added£625.00
Price at 25% markup£3,125.00
Margin at that price20.0%

Price for 20% target margin

£3,125.00

The target-margin figure is based on the costs you enter. Check overheads, VAT, allowances, exclusions, and the agreed scope before sending a quote.

From maths to commercial control

A good margin starts with a complete cost.

A calculator cannot know the site conditions or the scope. Use the result as a check, then build a structured estimate that includes labour, materials, overheads, allowances, exclusions, terms, and the client decision.

Explore job costing software
List every direct cost
Include overheads and allowances
Choose markup or target margin deliberately
Check VAT and tax treatment
State exclusions and assumptions
Keep the accepted quote version

Markup and margin FAQs

What is the difference between markup and margin?

Markup is the amount added to cost. Margin is the profit expressed as a percentage of the selling price. A 25% markup on £1,000 produces a £1,250 price and a 20% margin.

How do I calculate a target margin?

Divide the direct cost by one minus the target margin. For example, £2,000 of cost at a 20% target margin means £2,000 ÷ 0.8 = £2,500 before tax and other quote adjustments.

Does this include VAT and overheads?

The calculator focuses on the relationship between direct cost, markup and margin. Add the real cost of overheads and allowances before pricing, then apply the appropriate VAT treatment for your business and client.