How do I add equipment so I can use the equipment log?

How do I add equipment so I can use the Equipment Log?

Overview

The Equipment Log module helps you track equipment usage, hours, oil changes, maintenance activity, and inspection notes.
However, before you can record anything in an Equipment Log, the equipment must first be added to your Cost Items Database.

Important Note on Job Costing

Equipment Logs are not used for assigning equipment costs to a project.

• Equipment Logs = track usage, hours, maintenance, and issues

• Daily Log = records equipment cost

In Contractor Foreman, equipment cost is only calculated when:

1. Usage hours are entered in the Daily Log, and

2. The equipment has an hourly rate assigned in the Cost Items Database.

This ensures job costing and project reports remain accurate.

Step 1: Add Equipment to the Cost Items Database

Before creating an Equipment Log, you must first add your equipment to the Cost Items Database.

Navigation:
Menu → Cost Items Database → Equipment tab → Options for Equipment Items

You can add equipment in two ways:

A. Add Equipment Manually

1. Go to the Equipment tab.

2. Select Add Equipment.

3. Enter the equipment details.

4. Be sure to include an hourly rate—this is required for job costing in the Daily Log.

B. Import Equipment (CSV Upload)

1. Select View Import Template to download the CSV template.

2. Enter your equipment data into the template.

3. Return to Contractor Foreman and select Upload & Preview CSV to complete your import.

Step 2: Create a New Equipment Log

Once the equipment exists in the Cost Items Database, you can begin tracking its usage or maintenance.

Navigation:
Menu → Equipment Logs → Create New Log

1. Select Create a New Equipment Log.

2. Enter the required details, including date, hours, maintenance notes, and location.

3. (Optional) Add attachments such as photos or inspection documents.

   • On mobile, the attachment option appears as a camera icon.

4. Click Submit to save the log.

Job Costing Reminder

Recording hours in an Equipment Log does not assign cost to a project.
To ensure equipment cost is calculated correctly, always enter usage hours in the Daily Log.