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IndustryGlossary Term

Self-Supply

When a subcontractor provides their own tools, equipment, or materials rather than relying on the prime contractor or client. This shifts procurement responsibility — and often cost risk — directly to your company. Pricing your bids correctly to recover these costs is critical.

Related Terms

MRP (Materials Requirements Planning)

Industry

A scheduling system that calculates what materials are needed, in what quantities, and when. Subcontractors use it to avoid shortages or excess stock on job sites. It ties material orders directly to project timelines and scopes of work.

Proved Development Locations

Industry

Sites already approved for drilling within a producing field, based on confirmed reserves data. For subcontractors, these locations represent near-term, lower-risk work opportunities. Expect faster mobilisation timelines and more defined scopes compared to exploratory sites.

Highway Trust Fund

Industry

A U.S. federal fund that finances highway and infrastructure construction projects. Subcontractors bidding on federally funded road or infrastructure work must meet strict compliance and wage requirements tied to this funding. Budget cycles and congressional approvals directly affect project timelines and payment schedules.

Pilot Bore

Industry

A small-diameter initial hole drilled along a planned path before reaming to full size, commonly used in horizontal directional drilling. Subcontractors use it to verify alignment and ground conditions before committing to the full excavation scope.

ABC (Associated Builders and Contractors)

Industry

A U.S. trade association representing merit-shop contractors in construction and industrial sectors. Subcontractors use ABC membership for training resources, safety programmes, and industry networking. Membership can also signal credibility when bidding on open-shop projects.

Inversion (pipe Lining)

Industry

A trenchless pipe rehabilitation method where a resin-saturated liner is turned inside-out into an existing pipe using water or air pressure. The liner cures in place, forming a new pipe within the old one. Subcontractors are typically scoped for setup, inversion equipment operation, and post-cure inspection.

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