12 Best Estimating Software for Contractors in 2025

Finding the right estimating software can be the difference between winning profitable bids and losing money on projects. This updated 2025 guide reviews the 12 top tools for contractors, covering takeoff, estimating, integrations, pricing, and trade-specific strengths to help you bid smarter and protect margins.

Speed and accuracy drive win rates and profit. Digital estimating and connected workflows reduce rework, improve bid responsiveness, and help teams scale more confidently.¹

What you’ll find in this listicle:

• In-depth profiles of the 12 best estimating software for contractors
• Real usage examples, pros/cons, pricing cues, and implementation tips
• Screenshots and direct vendor links for every platform
• Strategic guidance for choosing the right tool and practical setup tips

Whether you run national programs or local remodels, the profiles below break down solutions by trade, budget, and reporting needs. Each entry highlights standout features and when to choose the product.

Let’s jump in and find the platform that turns your bids into wins.

1. Autodesk Takeoff (Autodesk Construction Cloud)

Autodesk Takeoff is a cloud-based quantification and takeoff tool ideal for teams working with BIM and Revit models. It unifies 2D and 3D takeoffs in a single environment so estimators can generate accurate quantities from traditional drawings and BIM simultaneously, reducing scope gaps between disciplines.

The platform’s cloud document management keeps teams on the latest plans and supports custom formulas and classification systems that export clean quantities to Excel or integrated estimating systems. It’s especially strong when you’re already using Autodesk Construction Cloud tools.

Key Details:

• Best for: General contractors and subcontractors heavily using BIM and Revit
• Pricing: Quote-based; typically a higher investment for smaller shops
• Standout feature: Unified 2D + 3D takeoff in the Autodesk ecosystem

Pros:

• Strong version control and collaboration
• Deep BIM support and familiar UI for Autodesk customers
• Exports clean quantity data for downstream pricing

Cons:

• Not a full estimating suite—requires export or integration for final pricing
• Premium pricing and a learning curve for new users

Website: https://construction.autodesk.com/products/autodesk-takeoff/

2. Procore Estimating

Procore Estimating (formerly Esticom) pairs browser-based takeoff with estimating and integrates natively into Procore’s project management and financial tools. The major advantage is a seamless handoff of estimate data into budgets, change orders, and purchasing—eliminating manual re-entry and cut-and-paste workflows.²

It includes customizable item catalogs, professional proposal tools, and an unlimited-user model that’s attractive for collaborative teams. The platform delivers the most value when used with Procore’s broader suite.

Key Details:

• Best for: GCs and specialty subs using or moving toward Procore
• Pricing: Quote-based; typically aimed at enterprise or large mid-market firms
• Standout feature: Native estimate→project workflow integration

Pros:

• Eliminates duplicate data entry between estimating and project execution
• Unlimited user access supports team collaboration
• Strong catalog and proposal capabilities

Cons:

• Full value requires Procore platform adoption
• Pricing can be high for small shops

Website: https://www.procore.com/

3. STACK

STACK is an easy-to-learn cloud platform combining digital takeoff, detailed estimating, and proposal generation. It’s built for speed, with item and assembly libraries that let estimators reuse pricing and assemblies for repeatable, reliable bids.

STACK includes optional cost-data integrations and AI-assisted takeoff features that accelerate the preconstruction workflow. Many teams choose STACK for its practical balance of speed, functionality, and transparent pricing.³

Key Details:

• Best for: Subcontractors and GCs needing a fast all-in-one takeoff→proposal workflow
• Pricing: Tiered plans with a free option and paid upgrades
• Standout feature: Integrated takeoff-to-proposal workflow

Pros:

• Rapid onboarding and intuitive interface
• Polished proposal generation
• Clear pricing tiers

Cons:

• Advanced features and APIs may require add-ons
• Accounting/ERP integrations are less robust than enterprise ERPs

Website: https://www.stackct.com/estimating/

4. PlanSwift (ConstructConnect)

PlanSwift is a long-established desktop takeoff tool known for fast point-and-click measurements and drag-and-drop assemblies. It’s a workhorse for subcontractors who want a reliable desktop option for quick quantity takeoffs and Excel exports.

PlanSwift’s assembly builder calculates materials and labor automatically for grouped items, and its plan overlay features help compare revisions. It’s ideal if you prioritize local performance and straightforward takeoffs over a full cloud suite.

Key Details:

• Best for: Trade contractors preferring a desktop-based takeoff tool
• Pricing: Quote-based; historically available as perpetual license or subscription
• Standout feature: Fast point-and-click takeoff with drag-and-drop assemblies

Pros:

• Intuitive and fast for straightforward quantity takeoff
• Strong exports to Microsoft Excel
• Familiar interface for long-time users

Cons:

• Desktop-focused—less seamless for remote collaboration
• Not a full estimating or ERP platform

Website: https://www.constructconnect.com/products/planswift/

5. HCSS HeavyBid

HCSS HeavyBid targets heavy civil and infrastructure contractors. It’s crew- and equipment-centric, allowing estimates based on historical production data, labor rates, and equipment costs—critical for DOT and large civil bids.

HeavyBid supports multi-user collaboration, DOT bid item imports, and electronic submissions. Its depth and industry focus make it the go-to for large civil firms that self-perform significant work.

Key Details:

• Best for: Heavy civil contractors and firms bidding infrastructure projects
• Pricing: Custom quote, often bundled with implementation and training
• Standout feature: Crew- and equipment-based estimating using historical production data

Pros:

• Industry standard for heavy civil bidding
• Strong multi-user and bid-review workflows
• Good integration with HCSS ecosystem and accounting tools

Cons:

• High total cost of ownership
• Over-specialized for general contractors or residential builders

Website: https://www.hcss.com/products/construction-estimating-software/

6. Trimble Accubid Anywhere

Trimble Accubid Anywhere is a cloud estimating solution for electrical and mechanical (MEP) contractors. It uses a spec-driven engine so you can define specs once and automatically apply correct materials and labor during takeoff. Real-time pricing from Trade Service helps keep bids accurate.

LiveCount, the graphical takeoff tool, includes AI-assisted symbol counting to speed repetitive tasks. Accubid Anywhere is built for trade-specific depth and downstream integrations with ERP systems.

Key Details:

• Best for: Electrical, mechanical, and industrial contractors
• Pricing: Custom quote with optional add-ons
• Standout feature: Spec-driven estimating with real-time material pricing

Pros:

• Extensive electrical and MEP material databases
• Cloud access and API connectivity
• Strong tie between graphical takeoff and the estimating engine

Cons:

• Highly specialized for MEP workflows
• Add-on ecosystem can increase cost and complexity

Website: https://www.trimble.com/en/products/trimble-accubid-anywhere

7. Sage Estimating

Sage Estimating is an enterprise-grade platform built on a SQL database for firms that must standardize estimating across teams. It centralizes cost data so organizations can maintain consistent pricing and reporting company-wide.

Sage connects with takeoff tools like eTakeoff and includes cloud portals for bid analysis and subcontractor collaboration. It’s a mature choice for large contractors focused on data governance and integration with Sage financial systems.

Key Details:

• Best for: Large contractors needing centralized cost databases and reporting
• Pricing: Partner/quote pricing; enterprise implementation expected
• Standout feature: Centralized SQL-based cost database and reporting

Pros:

• Scalable and mature platform
• Tight integration with Sage accounting/project suites
• Strong standardization and reporting capabilities

Cons:

• Involved implementation and change management
• Higher total cost of ownership for small teams

Website: https://www.sage.com/en-us/products/sage-construction-management/

8. McCormick Systems

McCormick Systems specializes in MEP estimating with prebuilt item and assembly databases and automated features like Auto Home Run for electrical contractors. It tightly integrates graphical takeoff with pricing so counts populate the estimate automatically.

Trade-specific automation and deep libraries speed bid turnaround for electrical, plumbing, and mechanical contractors.

Key Details:

• Best for: Electrical, plumbing, and mechanical specialty contractors
• Pricing: Quote-based; modules vary by trade
• Standout feature: Trade-specific databases with automated takeoff features

Pros:

• Purpose-built automation for MEP workflows
• Extensive training and support
• High accuracy for trade-specific bids

Cons:

• Limited utility outside MEP trades
• Interface is less modern than cloud-native competitors

Website: https://www.mccormicksys.com/

9. Buildertrend (with CoConstruct migration)

Buildertrend is an all-in-one residential construction management platform that now incorporates CoConstruct capabilities. It handles lead management, estimating, proposals, project management, and payments—making it a single system for builders and remodelers.

Estimates flow into project financials and schedules, proposals include e-signature, and client portals improve communication. For residential firms wanting end-to-end visibility, Buildertrend is a strong contender.

Key Details:

• Best for: Residential builders and remodelers needing full business workflow
• Pricing: Subscription-based with tiered packages
• Standout feature: End-to-end workflow from lead to final payment

Pros:

• Unified platform for sales, estimating, and project execution
• Client-facing tools and e-signatures streamline sales
• Extensive learning resources and support

Cons:

• Can be complex and costly if you only need estimating
• Feature breadth requires more onboarding time

Website: https://buildertrend.com/financial-tools/construction-estimating-software/

10. UDA ConstructionOnline – Estimating

UDA ConstructionOnline focuses on residential builders, remodelers, and specialty contractors with integrated estimating, project management, and client-selection tools. Estimates convert to proposals and feed budgets and change-order workflows to keep finances aligned with production.

Connections to QuickBooks and optional takeoff licenses make it practical for firms that want an all-in-one operational platform.

Key Details:

• Best for: Residential contractors, design-build firms, and remodelers
• Pricing: Tiered plans starting around $399/month; free trial available
• Standout feature: Integrated estimating with client selections and project financials

Pros:

• Manages the project lifecycle end-to-end
• Strong client portal for selections and approvals
• QuickBooks integration reduces double entry

Cons:

• Full functionality tied to higher-tier plans
• Can be more expensive than standalone estimating tools

Website: https://us.constructiononline.com/estimating

11. RSMeans Data Online (Gordian)

RSMeans Data Online is a comprehensive cost database rather than a complete estimating platform. It provides localized unit prices, assemblies, and square-foot models that many estimators use to build conceptual budgets or validate their numbers.⁴

Access to a large, geographically adjusted dataset makes RSMeans a trusted benchmark when paired with a takeoff or estimating application.

Key Details:

• Best for: Estimators, owners, and GCs needing reliable cost data and benchmarking
• Pricing: Tiered annual subscriptions
• Standout feature: Extensive, localized cost database

Pros:

• Authoritative cost baseline for estimates
• Useful for conceptual and square-foot estimating
• Regularly updated data

Cons:

• It’s a data service, not a full estimating app
• Requires integration with takeoff or spreadsheet tools

Website: https://www.gordian.com/rsmeans-data/

12. Bluebeam Revu

Bluebeam Revu is a PDF markup and collaboration tool widely used for takeoff and plan review. It includes measurement tools for length, area, counts, and volume and features like Dynamic Fill and Quantity Link to export measurements to Excel in real time.

Bluebeam Studio enables simultaneous plan review and markup, making it a go-to tool for teams that rely on PDF quantification and tight collaboration.⁵

Key Details:

• Best for: Teams needing powerful PDF-based takeoff and plan collaboration
• Pricing: Subscription tiers (Basics, Core, Complete)
• Standout feature: Studio real-time collaboration for plan markup

Pros:

• Ubiquitous in AEC workflows and easy to share markups
• Excellent plan review, RFI creation, and quantification tools
• Strong training resources and a clear subscription model

Cons:

• Not a full estimating system—best paired with costing tools
• Advanced features require higher-priced tiers

Website: https://bluebeam.com/

Top 12 Contractor Estimating Software — Quick Comparison

Making the Right Choice for Your Contracting Business

The best estimating software for contractors is the one that fits your trade, team size, project complexity, and long-term goals. An enterprise GC has different needs than a specialty electrical sub or a residential remodeler. Consider these simple guides:

• For complex, multi-discipline projects and BIM workflows: Autodesk Takeoff or Trimble Accubid Anywhere are strong choices.
• For residential builders who want a single system from sales to close: Buildertrend or UDA ConstructionOnline provide end-to-end workflows.
• For specialty trades: McCormick Systems or Accubid deliver trade-specific efficiency.
• For heavy civil work: HCSS HeavyBid provides crew- and equipment-based accuracy.

Also consider augmenting your website with simple, interactive cost tools to capture prequalified leads. Useful options include a Kitchen Remodel Cost Estimator, a Square Footage Cost Estimator, or a Construction Material Cost Predictor to give prospects fast ballpark figures and capture contact details.

Choosing software is one step—successful adoption requires clear processes, executive buy-in, and training so your team uses the tool to its full potential.

3 Quick Q&A — Common Contractor Questions

Q: Which software gives the fastest ROI for small subcontractors?

A: For small subs focused on speed and proposals, cloud tools like STACK deliver quick onboarding and fast proposal generation, so you can see measurable ROI within months.

Q: Should I pick a desktop or cloud-based estimating tool?

A: Choose based on collaboration needs. Desktop tools like PlanSwift can be faster for individual estimators, while cloud platforms (Autodesk Takeoff, Procore, STACK) are better for multi-person teams and remote access.

Q: How do I evaluate integrations and data flow?

A: Prioritize tools that natively export quantities or integrate with your accounting/ERP. Native estimate-to-project workflows reduce manual re-entry and errors.

Ready to give prospects immediate ballpark pricing on your site? Try one of the embedded calculators like the Construction Material Cost Predictor or the Square Footage Cost Estimator to capture higher-quality leads.