Midstream

Large interlocked timber or composite panels placed under crane outriggers to distribute load on soft or unstable ground. Subcontractors often supply, transport, and install them as part of site prep scopes. Rental and mobilisation costs should be clearly itemised in your quote.

Drilling program that follows an initial discovery to confirm reservoir size and commercial viability. For subcontractors, it means short-term, high-intensity scopes between exploration and full development phases. Mobilisation windows can be tight and contract durations unpredictable.

The formal handover point where ownership or responsibility for a measured quantity of oil, gas, or other product moves from one party to another — typically triggering billing, invoicing, or contractual obligations for subcontractors involved in metering, transport, or handling operations. Field service crews working custody transfer points must ensure measurements are accurate and fully documented, as discrepancies can directly affect client invoices and liability.

A formal period when a pipeline operator solicits capacity commitments from shippers before building or expanding a line. For subcontractors, it signals upcoming construction and maintenance work. Winning bids during this phase often trigger mobilisation timelines and crew planning.

Operations performed on an existing well to restore, maintain, or improve production. Includes activities like recompletions, artificial lift installation, and remedial cementing.

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.

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.