IIJA (Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act)

The horizontal section of a directionally drilled well, extending sideways through the target formation. Laterals can stretch several kilometres, requiring extended crew mobilisations and staged service scopes. Subcontractors should clarify lateral length upfront, as it directly affects equipment needs and job duration.

A trenchless method used to install pipelines, conduits, or cables beneath obstacles like roads, rivers, or existing infrastructure. Subcontractors are typically engaged for the drill crew, mud mixing, and equipment operation. Scopes are highly specialised and often require certified operators and dedicated HDD spreads.

A notice issued by a client or prime contractor to identify qualified subcontractors before a formal tender is released. Responding helps get your company on the bidders list. It is not a contract offer, but skipping it can mean missing the actual bid.

An ownership stake in an oil and gas lease that obligates the holder to pay a share of exploration and production costs. For subcontractors, knowing who holds working interest helps identify who is ultimately responsible for approving work orders and invoices. Operators typically hold majority working interest and are your primary point of contract.

A rock formation believed to contain oil or gas, targeted for drilling or evaluation. Subcontractors are often mobilised to support exploration work within these zones. Scope and duration of field service contracts may depend on how many prospective intervals a well will test.

The heaviest commercial truck classification, with a gross vehicle weight rating over 33,000 lbs. Includes semi-trucks, tankers, and heavy haulers commonly used to move equipment and materials on job sites. Operators require a Class 1 commercial driver's licence in Canada.

How Operator Mergers and Acquisitions Affect Your Subcontract Agreements

When operators merge, get acquired, or sell assets, subcontractor agreements are caught in the middle. Learn how M&A activity affects your MSA, payment terms, vendor status, and what to do before, during, and after a deal closes.

How Rig Count Trends Affect Subcontractor Demand and What to Do About It

Rig counts are the earliest signal of where field service work is heading. Learn how to read drilling activity trends, anticipate demand shifts, and position your crew before the phone stops ringing.

What Is an AFE in Oil and Gas and How Does It Affect Subcontractor Payments?

An AFE (Authorization for Expenditure) controls every dollar spent on an oilfield project. Learn how it affects your billing, change orders, and cash flow as a subcontractor.