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.
Kubla Cubed
Kubla Cubed is a specialized earthworks estimation software that helps you calculate cut and fill volumes from site plans, topographic surveys, and 3D models for construction projects.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Carlson Takeoff | Kubla Cubed |
|---|---|---|
| Website | carlsonsw.com | kublasoftware.com |
| Pricing Model | One_time | One_time |
| Starting Price | $99/month | Free |
| FREE Trial | ✓ 30 days free trial | ✓ 14 days free trial |
| Free Plan | ✘ No free plan | ✓ Has free plan |
| Product Demo | ✓ Request demo here | ✓ Request demo here |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 1983 | 0 |
| Headquarters | Maysville, USA | Bristol, UK |
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.
Kubla Cubed
Kubla Cubed is a dedicated earthworks estimation tool designed to help you calculate cut and fill volumes with high precision. Whether you are working from paper plans, PDFs, or complex CAD files, you can define existing and proposed site levels to generate accurate volume reports. It eliminates the manual struggle of calculating site excavations, embankments, and stockpiles, allowing you to produce professional results in a fraction of the time.
You can visualize your site in full 3D to identify potential errors before construction begins. The software is built for estimators, civil engineers, and contractors who need reliable earthworks data for bidding and project planning. By streamlining the takeoff process, you reduce the risk of costly volume miscalculations and improve the overall accuracy of your construction estimates.
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.
Kubla Cubed Features
- Flexible Data Import. Import your site data from various formats including PDF, CAD drawings, Excel points, and high-resolution images to start your takeoff.
- 3D Site Visualization. View your existing and proposed terrain in a fully interactive 3D environment to catch design flaws and verify your earthworks.
- Cut and Fill Analysis. Calculate precise volumes for excavations and embankments automatically by comparing your proposed site levels against the original ground surface.
- Multiple Calculation Methods. Choose between grid, prism, or section methods to ensure your volume calculations meet specific project requirements and industry standards.
- Professional Reporting. Generate detailed PDF and Excel reports that summarize volumes, areas, and depths to share with your clients or project stakeholders.
- Terrain Modeling Tools. Create complex site features like platforms, slopes, and ponds using intuitive drawing tools that adjust the terrain in real-time.
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
Kubla Cubed Pricing
- Basic volume calculations
- Limited number of points
- PDF and Image import
- 3D visualization
- Standard reporting
- Everything in Lite, plus:
- Unlimited data points
- CAD (DWG/DXF) support
- Advanced terrain modeling
- Export to CAD and Excel
- Priority technical support
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
Kubla Cubed
Pros
- Intuitive interface makes it easy to learn quickly
- Excellent 3D visualization helps verify site data accuracy
- One-time purchase model avoids expensive monthly subscriptions
- Handles complex PDF imports better than many competitors
Cons
- Professional version requires a significant upfront investment
- Limited automation for very large-scale infrastructure projects
- Requires a Windows environment to run natively