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.
CivilGEO
CivilGEO provides advanced engineering software for hydraulic and hydrologic modeling that automates complex river analysis and storm water management tasks to speed up your design and permitting processes.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Carlson Takeoff | CivilGEO |
|---|---|---|
| Website | carlsonsw.com | civilgeo.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 | 2010 |
| Headquarters | Maysville, USA | Madison, 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.
CivilGEO
CivilGEO provides specialized engineering software designed to simplify complex hydraulic and hydrologic modeling. You can perform detailed river analysis, floodplain mapping, and storm water management using tools that integrate directly with AutoCAD, MicroStation, and ArcGIS environments. The platform automates many of the manual tasks traditionally associated with HEC-RAS and HEC-HMS, allowing you to focus on engineering decisions rather than data entry.
You can build 1D and 2D models quickly by leveraging built-in automation for cross-section extraction and terrain processing. The software is primarily used by civil engineers, hydrologists, and government agencies to handle flood studies and infrastructure design. By streamlining the modeling workflow, you can significantly reduce the time required to complete regulatory submittals and technical reports.
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.
CivilGEO Features
- Automated HEC-RAS Modeling. Construct your HEC-RAS models automatically from CAD and GIS data to eliminate manual coordinate entry and errors.
- 2D Floodplain Mapping. Generate detailed 2D flood maps and animations to visualize water surface elevations and flow velocities across complex terrain.
- Bridge and Culvert Tools. Design and analyze hydraulic structures with specialized wizards that guide you through geometry setup and placement.
- GIS Data Integration. Import and process digital terrain models, land use maps, and soil data directly within your modeling environment.
- Real-time Error Checking. Catch modeling errors as you work with automated validation tools that flag inconsistent data before you run simulations.
- AutoCAD and MicroStation Support. Work within your preferred CAD environment using native tools that bridge the gap between design and analysis.
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
CivilGEO 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
CivilGEO
Pros
- Significant reduction in model creation time
- Excellent technical support from experienced engineers
- Seamless integration with existing CAD files
- Intuitive interface for complex HEC-RAS tasks
Cons
- Higher price point than standard freeware
- Requires high-performance hardware for 2D modeling
- Initial learning curve for advanced automation