The process a prime contractor or operator uses to review, approve, and finalise invoices before releasing payment to subcontractors. Understanding the settling system helps subs forecast cash flow and avoid payment delays. Timelines vary widely between clients, so confirm the cycle before mobilising.
Settling System
Related Terms
Job Costing
Cash FlowThe process of tracking all costs associated with a specific job or project, including labor, equipment, materials, and overhead. Accurate job costing is essential for understanding profitability.
RFQ (Request for Quote)
Cash FlowA formal document issued by prime contractors or operators asking subcontractors to submit detailed pricing and specifications for specific field services, equipment, or labour. RFQs typically include project scope, timelines, and technical requirements that subcontractors must address to compete for the contract.
Red Flag Warning
Cash FlowA signal that a client or project poses serious financial or operational risk to a subcontractor. Common triggers include late payments, scope disputes, or sudden crew access restrictions. Recognising these early helps subcontractors protect revenue and avoid costly disputes.
DSO (Days Sales Outstanding)
Cash FlowThe average number of days it takes to collect payment after a sale. For field service companies, DSO measures how long between completing work and receiving payment. Industry benchmarks range from 30-60 days.
Breakeven Cost
Cash FlowThe minimum amount a subcontractor must charge to cover all project expenses without making a loss. It includes labour, equipment, fuel, insurance, and overhead. Pricing below breakeven erodes margins and can threaten business viability.
Capped-Call Transactions
Cash FlowA financial tool used by larger contractors to manage costs when issuing convertible debt. It limits share dilution, helping protect company ownership structure. Subcontractors may see clients reference these when explaining capital raise decisions affecting project budgets.
Latest Cash Flow News
Cash Flow Strategy Gives Contractors an Edge in Volatile Market
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Chariot is financing an Angolan offshore acquisition with $12 million, securing production-linked cash flows from Block 14, a Chevron-operated asset producing around 40,000 bpd gross since 1999.
19 days ago Cash FlowIran Conflict Pressure Tests Oil Prices as US E&P Returns Hit Four-Year Lows
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20 days ago Cash FlowKnife River Completes Third Mountain Region Acquisition with Montana Ready-Mix Buy
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23 days agoRelated Guides
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You did the work. The project was cancelled, shelved, or never activated. Here is what subcontractors need to know about billing rights, legal remedies, and how to get paid when no one wants to discuss the invoice.
Cash Flow GuidePost-Completion Warranty and Punch Work: Protecting Your Margins After the Job Ends
Warranty walks, punch lists, and post-completion callbacks eat into subcontractor margins. Learn how MSA warranty clauses work, when you can push back on mobilization costs, and how to document your way out of disputes.
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