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.
InSite Elevation Pro
InSite Elevation Pro is a specialized construction takeoff software designed to help you calculate earthwork cut and fill volumes, subgrades, and material quantities from digital PDF plans or GPS data.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Carlson Takeoff | InSite Elevation Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Website | carlsonsw.com | insitesoftware.com |
| Pricing Model | One_time | Custom |
| Starting Price | $99/month | Custom Pricing |
| FREE Trial | ✓ 30 days free trial | ✓ 0 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 | 1986 |
| Headquarters | Maysville, USA | Rochester, 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.
InSite Elevation Pro
InSite Elevation Pro provides you with a dedicated environment for performing site work takeoffs and earthwork calculations. You can import digital PDF files, CAD drawings, or drone data to create accurate 3D models of your existing and proposed site conditions. The software automatically calculates cut and fill volumes, stripping, and topsoil replacement while accounting for different strata like rock or clay.
You can generate professional reports and high-resolution 3D visualizations to verify your estimates and present them to clients. By using the built-in subgrade adjustment tools, you ensure that your material quantities for stone, asphalt, and concrete are precise. It is built specifically for site contractors, engineers, and estimators who need to move away from manual scaling and paper blueprints to a faster, digital workflow.
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.
InSite Elevation Pro Features
- PDF and CAD Import. Load your digital blueprints directly into the system to start tracing contours and spot elevations without needing paper copies.
- 3D LiveView. View your site from any angle in real-time to spot errors in your data entry and visualize the finished grade.
- Automatic Cut and Fill. Calculate earthwork volumes instantly between existing and proposed surfaces while accounting for shrinkage and subsidence factors.
- Subgrade Modeling. Define various site improvements like paving or building pads to automatically adjust your earthwork totals based on material depth.
- Strata Calculation. Input boring log data to determine exactly how much rock, clay, or topsoil you need to excavate across the site.
- GPS Export. Export your completed surface models directly to Topcon, Trimble, or Leica machine control systems for use in the field.
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
InSite Elevation Pro 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
InSite Elevation Pro
Pros
- Excellent 3D visualization helps identify plan errors quickly
- Highly responsive technical support and personalized training
- Handles complex multi-strata calculations with high precision
- Easy integration with field GPS machine control systems
Cons
- Significant learning curve for users new to 3D modeling
- Initial setup and data entry can be time-consuming
- Higher upfront cost compared to basic 2D takeoff tools