Which type of pricing format may be requested in a bid proposal?

Cost-plus pricing is commonly requested in bid proposals because it allows the contractor to receive reimbursement for all direct costs incurred during a project, along with a predetermined profit margin. This approach provides transparency to the client, as all actual costs are backed by documentation, thus minimizing disputes over expenses.

Additionally, this pricing format is beneficial for contractors who may be dealing with variable project scopes or unforeseen circumstances that could alter costs over time. By using cost-plus pricing, both parties can have a clear understanding of how costs are being calculated, and it aligns the contractor's incentive with staying within budget while also ensuring that necessary funds are available to cover project expenses.

In contrast, the other options like percentage-based, discounted, and hourly pricing may not provide the same level of transparency or flexibility in variable situations, which makes them less favorable in certain bidding scenarios.