Liquefaction

Agreed reductions in oil production by member nations, typically OPEC (Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries) members, to stabilise prices. For subcontractors, these cuts often trigger project deferrals, reduced scope, and slower mobilisation schedules. Budget freezes from operators frequently follow, directly impacting field service award timelines.

A contract between an operator and a service company that establishes the general terms and conditions for all future work. Individual jobs are then executed under work orders or AFEs referencing the MSA.

A formal document issued by a client or general contractor authorising a subcontractor to perform a specific scope of work. It outlines the job details, location, timeline, and agreed rate. Subcontractors typically cannot invoice without a valid work order number.

The volume of work or units a crew completes within a set timeframe. Higher throughput means more billable output per shift, directly affecting your contract profitability. Subcontractors often track throughput to justify crew sizes and equipment needs.

A budgeting document used in oil and gas projects that outlines expected costs and seeks approval before work begins. Subcontractors often work under AFEs issued by operators.

A contract clause that excuses a party from performing obligations due to extraordinary events beyond their control, such as natural disasters or pandemics. For subcontractors, it can mean suspended work orders without compensation. Always review how your prime contract defines triggering events before signing.

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.