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.
Estimator360
Estimator360 is a cloud-based construction estimating and management software that provides automated labor and material assemblies to help residential builders create fast, accurate bids and manage projects efficiently.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Carlson Takeoff | Estimator360 |
|---|---|---|
| Website | carlsonsw.com | estimator360.com |
| Pricing Model | One_time | Subscription |
| Starting Price | $99/month | $179/month |
| FREE Trial | ✓ 30 days free trial | ✓ 14 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 | 1983 | 2017 |
| Headquarters | Maysville, USA | Plover, USA |
Overview
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.
Estimator360
Estimator360 is a comprehensive construction management platform designed specifically for residential builders and remodelers. You can move away from manual spreadsheets and use a smart system that automates your estimating process through a patent-pending assembly engine. This allows you to build complex estimates by simply entering dimensions, while the software calculates the necessary labor and materials automatically.
Beyond just bidding, you can manage your entire project lifecycle from a single interface. The platform handles your schedules, material takeoffs, and supplier interactions while keeping your team synced via mobile access. It solves the common problem of inaccurate bidding and manual data entry, ensuring your projects remain profitable from the initial quote to the final walkthrough.
Overview
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.
Estimator360 Features
- Smart Assemblies. Build your estimates faster by using pre-built labor and material assemblies that update automatically based on your project dimensions.
- Live Supplier Pricing. Connect directly with your local suppliers to receive real-time pricing updates, ensuring your estimates always reflect current market costs.
- Automated Scheduling. Generate project schedules automatically from your estimates to keep your crews on track and manage your timeline visually.
- Mobile Time Tracking. Track your team's hours in the field with GPS-enabled time clocking that syncs directly to your project budgets.
- Digital Proposals. Create professional, branded proposals that your clients can sign electronically to speed up your contract approval process.
- Material Takeoffs. Generate complete material lists instantly from your estimates to streamline your ordering process and reduce job site waste.
Pricing Comparison
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
Estimator360 Pricing
- Unlimited Estimates
- Smart Assembly Engine
- Project Scheduling
- Supplier Integration
- Mobile App Access
- Digital Signatures
- Everything in Standard, plus:
- Advanced Reporting
- Priority Support
- Custom Assembly Creation
- Enhanced Team Permissions
- Additional User Seats
Pros & Cons
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
Estimator360
Pros
- Automated assemblies significantly reduce estimating time
- Real-time supplier pricing improves bid accuracy
- Intuitive interface is easy for builders to navigate
- Mobile app keeps field crews and office synced
- Excellent customer support during the onboarding process
Cons
- Initial setup of custom assemblies takes time
- Higher price point than basic spreadsheet tools
- Limited integrations with smaller local accounting software