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.
On-Screen Takeoff
On-Screen Takeoff is a specialized construction estimating software that allows you to perform digital measurements and material counts directly from electronic blueprints to increase bidding speed and accuracy.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Carlson Takeoff | On-Screen Takeoff |
|---|---|---|
| Website | carlsonsw.com | oncenter.com |
| Pricing Model | One_time | Custom |
| Starting Price | $99/month | Custom Pricing |
| 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 | 1988 |
| Headquarters | Maysville, USA | The Woodlands, 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.
On-Screen Takeoff
On-Screen Takeoff helps you eliminate the manual process of paper blueprints by bringing your entire estimating workflow into a digital environment. You can view, measure, and count project components directly on your screen using electronic plans in various formats like PDF, CAD, or BIM. This transition from paper to digital allows you to build more accurate bids in a fraction of the time it takes with traditional methods.
The platform is designed specifically for construction professionals, including general contractors, subcontractors, and professional estimators across all trades. By using built-in conditions and auto-count features, you can reduce calculation errors and ensure your material lists are precise. It integrates with your existing estimating tools to create a seamless path from initial plan review to the final submitted bid.
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.
On-Screen Takeoff Features
- Multi-Condition Takeoff. Select and draw multiple conditions simultaneously to count items and measure lengths in a single pass across your plans.
- Auto-Count Imaging. Search for specific symbols across all project drawings to automatically count fixtures, outlets, or equipment in seconds.
- Intelligent Overlays. Compare two versions of a drawing visually to spot design changes and revisions instantly with color-coded highlights.
- Digital Point-and-Click. Measure linear distances, areas, and volumes with simple mouse clicks to generate precise material quantities automatically.
- BIM Integration. Extract quantities directly from 3D models to leverage advanced data and improve the accuracy of your complex estimates.
- Work Breakdown Structures. Organize your takeoff data by floor, zone, or phase to match how you actually build and manage the project.
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
On-Screen Takeoff Pricing
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
On-Screen Takeoff
Pros
- Significantly reduces time spent on manual material counting
- Overlay feature makes identifying plan revisions very simple
- High level of accuracy compared to manual scaling
- Strong integration with Quick Bid for seamless estimating
Cons
- Initial setup and learning curve can be steep
- Software performance can lag with very large files
- Pricing is higher than basic entry-level takeoff tools