Bar Bending Schedule (BBS): A Practical Guide
How to read and prepare a bar bending schedule: bar marks, shape codes, cutting lengths, bend deductions, laps, weights and how a BBS drives cut-and-bend rebar supply.
Saudi Steel Work Editorial Team · · 3 min read
Short answer: A bar bending schedule (BBS) lists every reinforcing bar in an element by bar mark, diameter, shape code, number of bars, dimensions and cutting length, and totals the weight by diameter. It is used to order, cut, bend and place rebar accurately and to reconcile quantities.
A good BBS is the bridge between structural drawings and rebar on site. It determines how much rebar you buy and how efficiently it is cut and placed.
Typical BBS columns
| Column | Content |
|---|---|
| Member | Footing F1, column C2, slab S3… |
| Bar mark | Unique ID per bar type |
| Type and size | e.g. T16 (high-yield 16 mm) |
| No. of members × bars | e.g. 4 × 12 |
| Shape code | Standard shape reference |
| Dimensions A, B, C… | Per shape code |
| Cutting length | Length before bending |
| Total length | Number × cutting length |
| Weight | Total length × kg/m |
Shape codes
Standards such as BS 8666 define shape codes (straight bars, L-bars, U-bars, links) so fabricators know exactly how to bend each bar. Agree which standard the project uses.
Cutting length and bend deductions
When a bar is bent, its outer fibres stretch. Cutting length = sum of dimensions − bend deductions + hook allowances. Typical deductions depend on diameter and bend angle; follow the standard or the engineer's tables.
Laps
Where bars are spliced, the lap length (often expressed as a multiple of bar diameter) must be included. See lap length and cover basics.
Totals by diameter
The BBS ends with total weight per diameter — the basis for ordering. Use the rebar weight calculator to check totals.
Good practice
- Prepare the BBS from approved drawings only
- Number bar marks logically per element
- Optimise cutting lengths to stock lengths (12 m)
- Get the BBS checked by the engineer before cutting
- Tag bundles with bar marks for easy placement
From BBS to supply
A BBS lets you buy cut-and-bend rebar, reducing site labour, waste and storage. Send your BBS with your rebar enquiry.