How to convert a work order to a quote in Books?

TB Books · work-orders · Last updated August 21, 2026 · Version 1

This process works in apps: TB Books

This article will teach you how to use Convert to Quote on an open work order so the same lines become a quote the customer can review.

Convert to Quote turns an open work order back into a sales quote without retyping the cart. Use it when a job was opened too early, the customer wants to think it over, or you need a shareable quote from lines already on the work order. Books closes the work order (it is not voided), releases committed inventory, and opens the quote. If this job started from a quote, that same quote number is reopened with the latest lines. Otherwise Books creates a new quote.

Steps

• Open Books → Orders → Work Orders.
• Open the work order, or stay on the list and click the ⋯ menu on that row.
• Click Convert to Quote. On the work order screen it is under ⋯ (More actions) in the header, next to Finalize.
• Wait until Books opens the quote. Lines, customer, location, vehicle, and notes carry over.
• Edit prices or lines if needed, then share or print the quote.
• When the customer accepts, convert the quote back to a work order (⋯ → Convert to Work Order, or the convert action on the quote).
• If Convert to Quote is missing or shows an error, the work order must still be Open — not invoiced, not voided — and it cannot have a deposit. Refund or apply the deposit first.

Conclusion & best practices

Do not convert a work order that already has an invoice — bill from that invoice instead. A deposit blocks Convert to Quote so money is not left on a closed job. After convert, the work order shows as closed and links to the quote. Related: How to create a work order in Books? and How to create a sales quote in Books?.