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.
EarthWorks
EarthWorks is a specialized excavation and grading software designed to help you calculate cut and fill volumes accurately from digital site plans and paper blueprints.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Carlson Takeoff | EarthWorks |
|---|---|---|
| Website | carlsonsw.com | tallysystem.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 | 1988 |
| Headquarters | Maysville, USA | Pipersville, 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.
EarthWorks
EarthWorks provides you with a dedicated suite of tools to simplify the complex process of site excavation estimating. Instead of manual calculations, you can import digital PDF files or use a digitizer tablet to trace site plans and instantly generate 3D models of your projects. This allows you to visualize the existing terrain against your proposed design to identify potential grading issues before you move a single yard of dirt.
You can calculate cut and fill quantities, topsoil stripping, and subgrade materials with high precision. The software helps you generate professional reports and cross-sections that you can share with clients or field crews. It is designed specifically for site contractors, excavators, and estimators who need to turn around bids quickly while maintaining a high level of accuracy to protect their profit margins.
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.
EarthWorks Features
- PDF and CAD Integration. Import digital vector PDF or CAD files directly to extract elevation data and boundaries without manual tracing.
- 3D Site Visualization. Rotate and inspect your site from any angle to spot errors in your data entry and verify grading plans.
- Cut and Fill Calculations. Calculate exact volumes for cut, fill, and topsoil to ensure your material estimates are accurate every time.
- Cross-Section Views. Generate detailed cross-sections at any point on your plan to see exactly how your proposed grade sits.
- Digitizer Support. Trace paper blueprints using a digitizer tablet if you prefer working with physical plans instead of digital files.
- Material Breakdown Reports. Create clear reports detailing subgrade materials and strata layers to help you plan your equipment and labor.
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
EarthWorks 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
EarthWorks
Pros
- Extremely accurate volume calculations for complex site grading
- Excellent technical support and personalized training sessions
- Visual 3D graphics help identify plan errors quickly
- Handles both digital files and traditional paper blueprints
Cons
- Interface feels dated compared to modern web apps
- Significant learning curve for users new to takeoff
- Pricing is not transparent on the website