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.
SiteWorx/OS
SiteWorx/OS is a comprehensive site excavation and grading takeoff software that allows you to perform precise earthwork volume calculations directly from digital PDF files or paper blueprints.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Carlson Takeoff | SiteWorx/OS |
|---|---|---|
| Website | carlsonsw.com | vertigraph.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 | 1991 |
| Headquarters | Maysville, USA | Dallas, 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.
SiteWorx/OS
SiteWorx/OS helps you streamline the complex process of site excavation and earthwork estimating. You can import digital PDF files or scan paper blueprints to perform high-precision takeoffs that calculate cut and fill volumes, topsoil stripping, and subgrade materials. The software creates a 3D model of your site, allowing you to visualize the existing and proposed terrain to identify potential errors before you ever move a single yard of dirt.
You can generate detailed reports and high-resolution graphics to support your bids and provide clear documentation for field crews. Whether you are a site contractor, land developer, or estimator, the platform simplifies the transition from 2D drawings to 3D site analysis. It eliminates manual calculation errors and significantly reduces the time you spend on complex grading projects.
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.
SiteWorx/OS Features
- PDF Takeoff Integration. Perform your takeoffs directly from digital PDF files to eliminate the need for expensive paper printing and manual scaling.
- 3D Site Visualization. View your site from any angle in 3D to verify your data entry and catch grading errors before bidding.
- Cut and Fill Calculations. Calculate precise volumes for cut and fill, including adjustments for topsoil stripping and various subgrade materials.
- Area and Length Measurement. Measure areas for paving, seeding, and sodding while simultaneously calculating lengths for curbs, gutters, and utility lines.
- Dynamic Cross Sections. Generate cross-sectional views of your site at any point to analyze the relationship between existing and proposed elevations.
- Export to GPS. Export your completed site models to machine control systems to guide your heavy equipment with high precision on-site.
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
SiteWorx/OS 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
SiteWorx/OS
Pros
- Extremely accurate earthwork volume calculations
- Excellent 3D modeling for visual verification
- Saves significant time compared to manual takeoffs
- Responsive technical support for complex site issues
Cons
- Initial learning curve for complex site grading
- Pricing is not transparent on the website
- Interface feels dated compared to modern SaaS