The Best Earthworks Estimating Software

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InSite Elevation Pro Screenshot

InSite Elevation Pro

★★★★★
★★★★★
(3)
InSite Elevation Pro is a complete PDF & CAD earthwork takeoff and GPS modeling solution. We help busy earthwork estimators spend less time on bidding, improve accuracy and confidently win more bids at better margins.
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Client OS
Windows
Deployment
On-Premises
HeavyBid Screenshot

HeavyBid

★★★★★
★★★★★
(3)
HeavyBid by HCSS is an estimating and bidding software for crew-based infrastructure construction. The solution has been used for estimates in earthwork, underground, highway, pipeline, mining, plants, and other heavy construction. HeavyBid will rapidly develop estimates, take and analyze quotes, manage bid-day, submit unit price and lump sum bids, and interface with scheduling and accounting software. @wistia Import DOT data from state websites; Build an entire estimate; Populate quote folders
Client OS
Windows, macOS, iOS
Deployment
Cloud Hosted
MudShark Screenshot

MudShark

★★★★★
★★★★★
(1)
MudShark by BrightBox is an earthworks estimating software designed for builders, estimators, contractors, engineers, and surveyors. Designed for bulk earthworks calculations, MudShark has in-built intelligence that works with you to get your project done without getting in your way or requiring a steep learning curve. Free up your time and get your projects done quicker, whether you are inputting contours, boundaries or structures. Automatically capture contours from a plan with a single click,
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Starting Price
$250/month
Client OS
Windows, macOS, Web
Deployment
On-Premises
PlanSwift Construction Takeoff & Estimating Software Screenshot

PlanSwift Construction Takeoff & Estimating Software

★★★★★
★★★★★
(3)
PlanSwift is a construction takeoff and estimating software designed for general and speciality contractors. It’s a highly-customizable platform with a visual, drag-and-drop interface and low learning curve. Overall, it streamlines estimations and precision in takeoff measurements.
Price Range
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Starting Price
$1,445 (perpetual license)
Client OS
Windows
Deployment
On-Premises
Trimble Tilos Screenshot

Trimble Tilos

★★★★★
★★★★★
(3)
Trimble Tilos planning tool provides a simplified, visual look at your construction project. The advanced technology software for linear infrastructure projects combine time and distance into one graphical view to help you stay on schedule. Simply put, Tilos makes planning and executing your linear project faster, easier, and more profitable. Use time-distance diagrams to map out linear schedule possibilities; Creative decision tool supporting “what-if” scenarios directly into the scheduling
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Starting Price
$2,095/user/year
Client OS
Windows
Deployment
On-Premises
Trimble Quest Screenshot
Trimble Quest provides construction contractors with the most sophisticated, advanced cost estimating software tools available to develop and manage construction cost estimates with real world accuracy. Pricing bids, monitoring on-site progress and forecasting requirements are all seamlessly handled by Trimble Quest’s fully cloud-based, collaborative approach to budget management. With the quickest on-boarding process in the sector, this easy to use construction estimating software will help you
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Starting Price
$999/user/year
Client OS
Web
Deployment
Cloud Hosted
WinEst Screenshot
WinEst is a versatile estimating software designed for building construction clients globally. It offers the ability to manage and integrate detailed project estimates, enhancing productivity and efficiency in the cost-estimating process. WinEst’s user-friendly interface simplifies tasks like estimating, cost-information gathering, bidding, and buying, thereby minimizing errors and saving time. It features customizable work-breakdown structures, filters, and standardized estimate templates, extending to labor and equipment rates.
Price Range
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Client OS
Windows
Deployment
On-Premises
Sharpesoft Estimator Screenshot
Sharpesoft Estimator is designed by estimaors to provide a user-friendly manner of bidding on more jobs in less time. The solution lets you reuse completelyd bid items from past jobs that have been saved in an Item Masters library, let you reuse crews and assemblies, including labor, equipment, materials, trucking, and more. Ease of Use; Item Masters; Reusable crews and assemblies; Material Comparison; Subcontractor Comparison; Trench Profiler; Hauling Calculations; What-if Scenarios; Powerful
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Starting Price
$7,800 (perpetual license)
Client OS
Windows
Deployment
On-Premises
QuickDIRT Screenshot

QuickDIRT

QuickDIRT Windows is the fastest and easiest earth work estimating tool available today! Each Estimate may have multiple Drawings and graphic Views open at the same time. Each Drawing stores all of the site description and digitized takeoff information. (Requires a WinTab compatible Digitizer.) Input to the system may be done using a digitizer to trace the information from a site drawing. The system also has an optional CAD DXF Import Module for direct import of site elevation data. As the
Client OS
Windows
ServiceSidekick Screenshot

ServiceSidekick

ServiceSidekick is a SaaS product that caters to plumbers, electricians, landscapers and others in the service industry. ServiceSidekick is easy to use online software that allows service companies to track leads, estimates and jobs. Users are able to manage the jobs across the entire production staff, helping to ensure jobs are completed as efficiently as possible. ServiceSidekick also allows data-syncing with your QuickBooks account.
EstimateGenius Screenshot
EstimateGenius is a Estimating and Proposal Generation software specially designed for subcontractors to estimate and generate proposal for various trades like excavation, sewer & water , paving, landscaping, concrete, masonry, steel, carpentry, roofing, water proofing, caulking and sealant, doors, frames and hardware, windows, glazing, drywall, flooring, painting, toilet accessories, toilet partitions, elevators, furnishing, window treatment, hvac, plumbing, fire protection, electrical etc.
Client OS
Windows
Deployment
Cloud or On-Premises
GoCanvas Screenshot
GoCanvas is a mobile forms app build for your construction business. The mobile app lets you do inspections, work orders, invoices, estimates, and more. The software helps clean your office up by letting you replace your paper forms with mobile versions. With GoCanvas, you can convert those mountains of paperwork into easy-to-use mobile apps and do even more with your data. Eliminate errors and lost forms, get data back in real-time and save time and money while revolutionizing your business
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Starting Price
$45/user/month
Client OS
iOS, Android, Web
Deployment
Cloud Hosted
B2W Estimate Screenshot
B2W Estimate provides centralized, up-to-date cost data and structures along with specialized functionality for heavy civil construction estimating and bidding. The intuitive, easy-to-use solution allows contractors to maximize accuracy and speed, focus more attention on strategy and win more bids at better margins. Central resource database with up-to-date labor, task, material and equipment costs; Specialized functionality for creating bids from databases, templates and cost structures;
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Starting Price
$5,500/user (perpetual license)
Client OS
Windows, Web
Deployment
Cloud or On-Premises
Autodesk BIM 360 Screenshot
Autodesk BIM 360 is a cloud-based software for construction management, integrating project management, quality, safety, and design collaboration. It enables teams to coordinate better by providing tools for clash detection, document management, and real-time model sharing.
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Starting Price
$35/user/month
Client OS
Windows, iOS, Android, Web
Deployment
Cloud Hosted
SiteWorx/OS Screenshot

SiteWorx/OS

SiteWorx/OS provides cut and fill volumes with 3D surface models. SiteWorx/OS can accurately and quickly provide soil placement volumes and locations. The software works with vector and raster files. With DWG files easily import all contour lines and points with a single mouse click. Customers are taking off 50+ acre sites from DWG files in less than ten minutes. From vector PDF files, a single click takes off the entire contour line. SiteWorx/OS is easy and does everything that other site
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Starting Price
$850/year
Client OS
Windows
Deployment
Cloud or On-Premises
Methvin Screenshot

Methvin

★★★★★
★★★★★
(1)
Methvin is a cloud-based construction estimating and project management solution that caters to businesses such as civil and general contractors, and builders. Key features include the estimating tool, takeoff tool, and project management tools. These tools allow users to generate cost estimates, deliver estimates electronically, and manage projects. @youtube Shift from the adversary approach of managing clients to one of open communications. This will foster and improve relationships and
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Client OS
Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Web
Deployment
Cloud or On-Premises
PlanHub Screenshot

PlanHub

★★★★★
★★★★★
(5)
PlanHub is a construction management software for general contractors and subcontractors. It supports construction management projects through features like file sharing, activity tracking, and bid management. The software aids in organizing bids and connecting with a wide subcontractor network, enhancing the opportunity for winning bids.
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Starting Price
$999/year
Client OS
Web
Deployment
Cloud Hosted
InEight Screenshot

InEight

★★★★★
★★★★★
(1)
InEight provides field-tested project management software for the owners, contractors, engineers and architects who are building the world around us. Over 575,000 users and more than 850 customers worldwide rely on InEight for real-time insights that help manage risk and keep projects on schedule and under budget across the entire life cycle. From pre-planning to design, from estimating to scheduling, and from field execution to turnover, InEight has powered more than $400 billion in projects
Client OS
Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Web
Benchmark Estimating Software Screenshot

Benchmark Estimating Software

Benchmark Estimating Software helps your business produce more esitmates in less time. The software is suited for projects of all types, but specializes in asphalt, construction, civil engineering, landscaping, mining, rail, roads, and utilities. Benchmark Estimating Software comes in three different versions: Benchmark Cloud; Benchmark Estimating App; and Benchmark Compact. Project document folders; Custom fields; Project comparator; Mandatory fields; Easy to use; My Benchmark dashboard;
Client OS
Windows
Deployment
Cloud or On-Premises
Estimating Link Screenshot

Estimating Link

★★★★★
★★★★★
(1)
Estimating Link software is designed specifically for heavy civil construction estimating and bidding. This easy-to-use program helps you centralize your data, increase your speed and accuracy, and increase profit margins.
Price Range
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Starting Price
$166/month
Client OS
Windows, Web
Deployment
Cloud or On-Premises

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Buyer’s Guide

What is Earthworks Estimating Software?

Earthworks estimating software assists engineers forecast costs related to earthwork projects like surveying, landscaping, and excavating. Like general construction estimating software, each estimate is now created by automatically calculating costs for labor, materials, and equipment necessary for a potential project, then using those numbers to develop and submit a professional, polished bid. Notably, this software also calculates the potential volume of earthmoving on a job, such as from cut and fill operations.

Sometimes referred to as earthworks takeoff software, these estimating solutions use available blueprints and schematics of the jobsite in order to calculate the total area of the project, cut and fill amounts, and other specifics. Previously, earthworks estimations were performed by hand with slide rules and grid cells, leaving a lot of room for human error. Since earthworks are necessary before most construction or infrastructure projects can begin, at least to some degree, it’s important to get accurate estimates on everything from topsoil to backfill as soon as possible to keep the entire project on schedule and on budget.

BrightBox MudShark Software
Improve your bidding process with MudShark by BrightBox.

Features of Earthworks Estimating Software

  • Pre-bid investigation: Gather detailed information about potential earthworks projects in advance of the bidding process to ensure an accurate proposal
  • Digital takeoff: Use dimensional information about a jobsite, such as cross sections, blueprints, or area and perimeter measurements, along with job details to generate a list of required materials, equipment, and labor necessary for the entire construction project
  • 3D modeling: Review 3-dimensional drawings and schematics of worksites to see existing elevation, subgrades, and demolition areas
  • Labor cost forecasting: Predict how many employee hours are required for earthwork services, then manage job-specific rates for payroll
  • Material and equipment estimating: Calculate material costs based on base rate costs along with prices for the purchase or rental of specific job equipment
  • Estimate to quote conversion: Transfer data from internal job cost estimates into custom templates to develop customer-facing quotes and proposals
  • Digital plan management: Once a bid is won, digitize paper plans which can be updated and revised in real-time for efficient recordkeeping
  • Document management: Continually store past or current job estimates into a digital system for easy reference; use digitizing to keep copies of dig permits, client communications, and soil studies
  • Historical estimating data: Create a library of earthwork reference data to reuse when calculating future estimates based on past experience, compatible with formats like vector PDFs, TIFFs, AutoCAD files, and digitized paper schematics and blueprints

Best Earthworks Estimating Software Benefits

Earthworks takeoff software provides many useful advantages to estimating. Some benefits include:

Accurate Job Planning

The first benefit of earthworks estimating is being able to plan out projects from start to finish with greater accuracy. Earthwork services are necessary before starting a wide range of construction jobs, such as:

  • Roads and railways
  • Highways
  • Bridges and tunnels
  • Building foundations and basements
  • Land grading
  • Drainage and dredge excavation

Before any sitework on these civil engineering projects can begin, the takeoff process is necessary to calculate all possible measurements. From drawing sheets to detailed cross sections, these detailed documents can indicate just how much earthmoving is required, the volume of materials necessary, and other important variables regarding the work.

For example, earthworks excavation software has tools to digitize takeoff into a 3D model to reveal possible complications with existing elevations so solutions can be identified in advance. And site drawings can be converted into CAD files with real GPS data to reflect actual locations on the entire worksite.

InSite Elevation Takeoff Software
Measure the work area with takeoff tools from InSite Elevation.

Improved Bidding Process

Previously, earthworks estimates had to be calculated by hand. Then, basic programs such as Excel allowed for streamlined estimations to be made with formulas. Those numbers were then used in bids to predict job costs. However, human error still caused mistakes to happen. As a result, the actual cost for the project could wind up significantly higher than the initial estimate indicated. Use earthworks estimating software to determine the details and costs of a specific project in order to perfect bids and proposals.

User-friendly digital takeoff tools can ease area and perimeter calculations by showing exactly where various property lines end or intersect. Now, estimates can be completed in minutes instead of hours or days while accounting for labor and equipment costs. And with more accurate estimates, more projects can be completed on or under budget.

Increase Worksite Safety Compliance

Accidents happen in earthworks, though they don’t always have to. Incidents from over-excavation or unstable slopes at high elevations can be avoided with proper planning and adherence to local or federal laws.

Earthwork projects require precision. Quantity estimation is necessary to ensure soil removed matches available fills. A single error during this step can endanger the project and risk the stability of the soil.

There are also safety regulations to consider when performing sitework to prepare a bid. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has very strict rules regarding how to safely operate earthworks projects based on soil classification. During the bidding process, you need to be aware of these different regulations when encountering:

  • Stable rock
  • Type A soil
  • Type B soil
  • Type C soil

Failing to thoroughly investigate and take these different soils into account could delay excavation to prevent collapse when sloping, shoring, or shielding. By utilizing earthworks estimating software, these factors can be addressed early on, reducing the possibility of accidental collapse, worker injuries, and project delays alike. In addition to addressing OSHA regulations, software can adjust for international soil classification systems as well.

Lower Labor and Materials Costs

Finally, earthworks estimating software can lead to lower project costs overall and higher ROI. With precise estimates and bids, earthwork engineers can lower overall costs on projects. By anticipating every aspect of the project in advance, civil engineers and contractors can avoid unexpected expenses.

For instance, working a site which covers a wide area may result in working amongst different soil classifications. Geotechnical engineers know the tools used for moving coarse-grained soils can’t be used for handling peat. Since certain soil classifications need to be worked by specific equipment, that means adjusting the estimate to include more equipment for each classification at the location. This can further influence the total costs based on worker experience with that equipment and availability of rentals if necessary.

Additionally, in-depth crew analysis can reveal who should be assigned to each earthworks project for the best results. Historical data from past jobs can show who has experience with specific equipment, elevations, or soil classifications. This information can let you know from the start whether you need additional labor or specialty contractors to complete work.

HeavyBid Estimating
Review estimate costs with HeavyBid.

Earthworks Estimating Software Pricing

The total costs of earthwork estimating software is largely based on whether you want an on-premise or cloud-based solution. SaaS estimating software pricing averages between $45 per month and $300 per month. There are also one-time perpetual licenses available for on-premise implementation for a set number of users or computers.

Costs may increase to accommodate training classes, annual upgrades, or real-time IT support services. Some systems can be self-installed while others require professional setup, further adding to total costs.

The best software options are designed to fit the budget of every estimator. Several options are able to integrate with all-in-one general contracting software for additional functionality like invoicing and accounting.