Tools & How-Tos

Quick reference for every tool you use day-to-day.

Sales Tax — Avallara Calculator

When to use: When finalizing an order — not during the quoting stage.

Key rules to know:

• Always quote prices before tax during the sales conversation
• Tell customers the price is “plus tax” — never lead with the tax-inclusive number
• Deposits are never taxed — deposit is calculated on the pre-tax subtotal only
• Remaining balance + all sales tax is due at installation

How to calculate the tax rate:

1. Go to Sales Dashboard → Avallara U.S. Sales Tax Calculator
2. Enter the customer’s full install address
3. Click “Look Up My Rates”
4. Make sure all three levels appear: city + county + state

• If only the state shows up, the address may not be recognized correctly — try adjusting

5. Note the total combined percentage

How to apply the tax rate in the builder:

• East-Tex or NC Steel: Go to Sales Tools → Sales Tax → select “Custom Percentage” → enter the verified rate
• This updates automatically when you export the order form PDF

Common rate reference: Most of Texas = 8.25% — but always verify per address. Don’t assume.

3D Builder — Saving Your Design

1. Build out the customer’s design in NC Steel or East-Tex 3D Builder
2. Click “Download PDF” at the top of the builder
3. Open the downloaded PDF on your computer
4. At the top of the PDF you’ll see a unique design link
5. Click that link anytime to reopen the exact saved design, including the ZIP code it was built for

Use this to save listing designs, return to a customer’s quote later, or pick up mid-configuration.

Screenshots — Capturing a Building (Mac)

Goal: Get a clean image of just the building itself — no manufacturer logos, builder UI, or pricing visible.