AGTEK Gradework
AGTEK Gradework is a specialized heavy civil construction software providing automated 3D earthwork takeoff, site modeling, and quantity analysis to help you create accurate dirt estimates and GPS machine control files.
Carlson Takeoff
Carlson Takeoff is a comprehensive construction estimation software providing site supervisors and estimators with integrated tools for CAD design, accurate dirt-work volumes, and automated machine control file preparation.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | AGTEK Gradework | Carlson Takeoff |
|---|---|---|
| Website | agtek.com | carlsonsw.com |
| Pricing Model | Custom | One_time |
| Starting Price | Custom Pricing | $99/month |
| FREE Trial | ✘ No free trial | ✓ 30 days free trial |
| Free Plan | ✘ No free plan | ✘ No free plan |
| Product Demo | ✓ Request demo here | ✓ Request demo here |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 1981 | 1983 |
| Headquarters | Livermore, USA | Maysville, USA |
Overview
AGTEK Gradework
AGTEK Gradework helps you transform 2D designs into 3D reality with speed and precision. You can import PDF, CAD, or drone data to calculate cut and fill volumes, identify subgrade requirements, and visualize site balances. It eliminates the guesswork in heavy civil bidding by providing a clear picture of how much dirt you need to move and where it needs to go on the job site.
You can use the platform to build GPS machine control models directly from your takeoff data, ensuring your field crews work to the exact design specifications. Whether you are a small grading contractor or a large heavy highway firm, the software streamlines the transition from the estimating office to the field, helping you protect your margins and win more profitable work.
Carlson Takeoff
Carlson Takeoff gives you a specialized toolkit designed specifically for construction estimators and site supervisors. You can transition from raw paper plans or digital PDFs to finished 3D models and precise material quantities without jumping between different programs. It combines powerful CAD capabilities with automated routines to calculate cut and fill volumes, identify topsoil stripping areas, and account for subgrade depths across your entire project site.
You can use the software to prepare your project for the field by creating surface models and linework for GPS machine control systems. It helps you catch design errors before the first shovel hits the ground by visualizing the site in 3D. Whether you are working on a small residential pad or a massive highway project, you can generate professional reports that clearly break down costs and quantities for your bids.
Overview
AGTEK Gradework Features
- Automated Takeoff Trace PDF or CAD files to calculate site volumes and material quantities in a fraction of the time.
- 3D Site Modeling Create accurate 3D surface models that you can export directly to GPS machine control systems for grading.
- Haul Analysis Visualize dirt movement across your site to optimize your equipment paths and reduce fuel and labor costs.
- Subgrade Quantification Account for different material layers like rock, topsoil, and paving to ensure your structural estimates are precise.
- Drone Data Integration Import orthomosaic images and point clouds to track progress and verify topographical changes against your original plan.
- Dynamic Site Balancing Adjust your design elevations in real-time to see how changes affect your overall cut and fill balance.
Carlson Takeoff Features
- PDF to CAD Conversion. Convert static PDF plans into intelligent vector data so you can start your takeoff process in minutes rather than hours.
- Digitizing & Tracing. Trace paper blueprints or digital images with automated contour following to capture site elevations and boundaries accurately.
- Material Quantities. Calculate exact volumes for dirt, stone, asphalt, and concrete while accounting for shrinkage and swell factors automatically.
- Subgrade Modeling. Define complex subgrade surfaces for roads and building pads to ensure your excavation totals include every necessary inch.
- Machine Control Export. Create and export 3D surface files directly to Topcon, Trimble, and Leica systems to keep your field equipment running accurately.
- Trenching & Pipe Takeoff. Calculate excavation volumes for utility lines and manholes based on pipe size, bedding requirements, and trench sloping.
- 3D Site Viewing. Inspect your finished model in a 3D environment to spot design flaws or missing data before sending plans to the field.
- Automated Reporting. Generate detailed Excel or PDF reports that break down your volumes by area, layer, or material type for precise bidding.
Pricing Comparison
AGTEK Gradework Pricing
Carlson Takeoff Pricing
- Includes built-in AutoCAD engine
- Full 3D site modeling
- PDF and paper digitizing
- Material quantity reports
- Machine control file export
- Perpetual license ownership
- Runs on AutoCAD or IntelliCAD
- Includes Construction module
- Includes CADnet module
- Includes Trench module
- Includes GeoTech module
- Advanced boring and soil analysis
Pros & Cons
AGTEK Gradework
Pros
- Industry standard for heavy civil earthwork and grading
- Excellent visualization of cut and fill requirements
- Direct export to major GPS machine control brands
- Strong customer support and specialized training options
Cons
- Significant upfront investment compared to basic tools
- Steep learning curve for advanced 3D modeling
- Requires high-performance hardware for large datasets
Carlson Takeoff
Pros
- Perpetual licensing avoids the cost of monthly subscriptions
- Excellent compatibility with various GPS machine control brands
- Powerful PDF cleanup tools save significant drafting time
- Highly accurate volume calculations for complex subgrades
- Responsive technical support from knowledgeable industry experts
Cons
- Steep learning curve for users new to CAD
- Interface feels dated compared to modern web apps
- Initial purchase price is a significant upfront investment