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.
RPM MinePlanner
RPM MinePlanner is a comprehensive mine planning software that integrates scheduling, haulage, and financial analysis to help you create optimized, technically reachable, and financially viable mining schedules.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Carlson Takeoff | RPM MinePlanner |
|---|---|---|
| Website | carlsonsw.com | rpmglobal.com |
| Pricing Model | One_time | Custom |
| Starting Price | $99/month | Custom Pricing |
| FREE Trial | ✓ 30 days free trial | ✘ No 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 | 1968 |
| Headquarters | Maysville, USA | Brisbane, Australia |
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.
RPM MinePlanner
RPM MinePlanner provides you with a unified environment to manage the entire mine planning lifecycle. Instead of jumping between disconnected spreadsheets and manual tools, you can integrate spatial data, production scheduling, and haulage simulation into a single workflow. This allows you to see the immediate impact of your planning decisions on production targets and equipment requirements in real-time.
You can generate detailed schedules that account for complex constraints like equipment availability, material blending requirements, and haulage distances. The software helps you bridge the gap between high-level strategic goals and daily operational execution. By simulating different scenarios, you can identify potential bottlenecks before they happen and ensure your mine remains profitable and productive throughout its life.
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.
RPM MinePlanner Features
- Integrated Scheduling. Create detailed production schedules that link directly to your spatial mine models for accurate, data-driven planning.
- Haulage Simulation. Model your entire haulage network to calculate cycle times and fuel consumption based on actual equipment performance.
- Dynamic Pit Design. Generate and modify pit designs quickly to respond to changing geological data or fluctuating commodity prices.
- Equipment Optimization. Determine the exact fleet size you need by simulating equipment interactions and maintenance schedules within your plan.
- Financial Integration. Link your physical mining schedule to cost models to see the immediate financial impact of every operational change.
- Scenario Modeling. Run multiple 'what-if' scenarios to compare different mining strategies and choose the most profitable path forward.
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
RPM MinePlanner 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
RPM MinePlanner
Pros
- Seamless integration between scheduling and haulage simulation
- Highly accurate modeling of complex equipment constraints
- Strong ability to handle massive geological datasets
- Excellent financial transparency for operational planning
Cons
- Significant learning curve for new technical users
- Requires high-performance hardware for complex simulations
- Higher price point compared to basic scheduling tools