Quick Overview
- 1#1: HCSS HeavyBid - Comprehensive preconstruction estimating and bidding software optimized for heavy civil contractors handling asphalt paving projects.
- 2#2: AGTEK Gradework - 3D earthwork takeoff and GPS machine control software for accurate asphalt paving quantity calculations and site modeling.
- 3#3: Trimble Roadworks - Advanced GPS machine guidance system for asphalt pavers ensuring precise layer placement and surface quality.
- 4#4: Topcon PZS-ID - 3D paving control system that delivers automated guidance for pavers and mills in asphalt operations.
- 5#5: Procore - Cloud construction management platform for scheduling, tracking, and collaborating on asphalt paving jobs.
- 6#6: Autodesk Civil 3D - Civil engineering design software for modeling roads, corridors, and asphalt paving surfaces.
- 7#7: Bluebeam Revu - PDF markup and takeoff tool for measuring and annotating paving plans and quantities.
- 8#8: STACK - Cloud-based digital takeoff and estimating software for fast asphalt material quantity computation.
- 9#9: PlanSwift - On-screen takeoff software that automates quantity extraction from paving blueprints.
- 10#10: Carlson Takeoff - Construction takeoff suite for earthwork and asphalt paving volume and cost estimation.
These tools were chosen based on robust feature sets (including precise quantity takeoff, real-time control, and collaboration tools), user-friendly design, and proven performance in real-world asphalt operations, ensuring they deliver consistent value to contractors.
Comparison Table
Asphalt paving software enhances precision, efficiency, and project oversight, and this comparison table explores top tools including HCSS HeavyBid, AGTEK Gradework, Trimble Roadworks, Topcon PZS-ID, Procore, and more. Readers will learn about key features, usability, integration potential, and cost factors to find the ideal software for their specific paving needs, whether for small repairs or large-scale infrastructure projects.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | HCSS HeavyBid Comprehensive preconstruction estimating and bidding software optimized for heavy civil contractors handling asphalt paving projects. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.8/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 2 | AGTEK Gradework 3D earthwork takeoff and GPS machine control software for accurate asphalt paving quantity calculations and site modeling. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 3 | Trimble Roadworks Advanced GPS machine guidance system for asphalt pavers ensuring precise layer placement and surface quality. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Topcon PZS-ID 3D paving control system that delivers automated guidance for pavers and mills in asphalt operations. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 5 | Procore Cloud construction management platform for scheduling, tracking, and collaborating on asphalt paving jobs. | enterprise | 7.4/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 6.8/10 |
| 6 | Autodesk Civil 3D Civil engineering design software for modeling roads, corridors, and asphalt paving surfaces. | enterprise | 7.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 5.4/10 | 6.3/10 |
| 7 | Bluebeam Revu PDF markup and takeoff tool for measuring and annotating paving plans and quantities. | specialized | 6.2/10 | 5.8/10 | 8.0/10 | 5.5/10 |
| 8 | STACK Cloud-based digital takeoff and estimating software for fast asphalt material quantity computation. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | PlanSwift On-screen takeoff software that automates quantity extraction from paving blueprints. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 10 | Carlson Takeoff Construction takeoff suite for earthwork and asphalt paving volume and cost estimation. | specialized | 7.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.0/10 |
Comprehensive preconstruction estimating and bidding software optimized for heavy civil contractors handling asphalt paving projects.
3D earthwork takeoff and GPS machine control software for accurate asphalt paving quantity calculations and site modeling.
Advanced GPS machine guidance system for asphalt pavers ensuring precise layer placement and surface quality.
3D paving control system that delivers automated guidance for pavers and mills in asphalt operations.
Cloud construction management platform for scheduling, tracking, and collaborating on asphalt paving jobs.
Civil engineering design software for modeling roads, corridors, and asphalt paving surfaces.
PDF markup and takeoff tool for measuring and annotating paving plans and quantities.
Cloud-based digital takeoff and estimating software for fast asphalt material quantity computation.
On-screen takeoff software that automates quantity extraction from paving blueprints.
Construction takeoff suite for earthwork and asphalt paving volume and cost estimation.
HCSS HeavyBid
enterpriseComprehensive preconstruction estimating and bidding software optimized for heavy civil contractors handling asphalt paving projects.
Advanced asphalt production rate library and visual estimating tools that automatically calculate tonnage, coverage, and layering for paving bids
HCSS HeavyBid is a comprehensive estimating, bidding, and job costing software tailored for heavy construction, with robust capabilities for asphalt paving projects including precise material takeoffs, tonnage calculations, and production rate modeling for asphalt mixes and placement. It enables contractors to build accurate bids by integrating historical data, subcontractor management, and real-time cost updates specific to paving operations like milling, base preparation, and surface paving. The software also supports post-bid job tracking to ensure profitability on paving contracts.
Pros
- Highly accurate asphalt-specific estimating tools with customizable production rates and mix designs
- Seamless integration with HCSS field software for end-to-end paving project management
- Extensive database of historical bids and costs for reliable asphalt bidding
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to its depth and complexity
- High cost may deter smaller paving contractors
- Interface feels dated compared to modern cloud-native tools
Best For
Large to mid-sized asphalt paving contractors handling complex highway and infrastructure projects that require precise, data-driven bidding.
Pricing
Custom pricing via quote; typically starts at $500-$1,500 per user/month depending on modules and company size, with annual contracts.
AGTEK Gradework
specialized3D earthwork takeoff and GPS machine control software for accurate asphalt paving quantity calculations and site modeling.
Real-time GPS surface generation for automated paver and milling machine control, ensuring layer-by-layer paving accuracy.
AGTEK Gradeworks is a powerful 3D modeling and machine control software tailored for construction professionals handling earthwork, grading, and asphalt paving operations. It allows users to create precise digital terrain models, perform detailed takeoffs for asphalt quantities, and generate GPS guidance files for pavers and mills. The software supports complex site preparation workflows that integrate seamlessly with paving phases, optimizing material usage and project efficiency.
Pros
- Advanced 3D GPS modeling for precise paving guidance
- Accurate asphalt quantity takeoff and cost estimating
- Strong integration with machine control hardware for pavers
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- High cost may deter smaller operations
- Less emphasis on asphalt mix design compared to specialized tools
Best For
Mid-to-large paving contractors needing integrated 3D modeling and GPS machine control for site grading and asphalt placement.
Pricing
Modular subscription pricing starts at $2,500-$10,000 annually per seat; custom enterprise quotes required.
Trimble Roadworks
specializedAdvanced GPS machine guidance system for asphalt pavers ensuring precise layer placement and surface quality.
End-to-end paving train integration, guiding mills, pavers, and rollers from a single digital design for unmatched workflow continuity
Trimble Roadworks is a advanced site assistance software suite tailored for asphalt paving operations, providing 3D machine guidance for pavers, rollers, and cold planers. It enables precise control of material thickness, cross-slope, and elevation by importing digital designs and delivering real-time operator feedback via in-cab displays. The system supports the full paving workflow, from milling planning and execution to paver deployment and roller compaction with pass mapping, ensuring high-quality results and as-built documentation.
Pros
- Comprehensive 3D guidance across milling, paving, and compaction phases
- Real-time adjustments and as-built quality reporting for compliance
- Seamless integration with Trimble hardware and design software like Trimble Business Center
Cons
- Steep learning curve for operators new to 3D systems
- High upfront costs tied to proprietary hardware
- Limited flexibility for non-Trimble machine integrations
Best For
Mid-to-large paving contractors handling infrastructure projects that demand precision and documentation.
Pricing
Quote-based; hardware starts at $15,000-$30,000 per machine plus annual software subscriptions of $4,000-$8,000.
Topcon PZS-ID
specialized3D paving control system that delivers automated guidance for pavers and mills in asphalt operations.
Inertial Guidance (ID) technology for reliable control in GNSS-denied areas like urban canyons
Topcon PZS-ID is a rugged field controller integrated with machine control software for asphalt paving, enabling 3D guidance on pavers and mills. It supports import of design files, real-time surface modeling, and automatic adjustments for mat thickness, cross-slope, and elevation using GNSS, total stations, or inertial sensors. This solution excels in high-precision road resurfacing and new construction projects within Topcon's ecosystem.
Pros
- Exceptional accuracy with multi-sensor fusion (GNSS, IMU, sonic)
- Robust hardware built for harsh paving environments
- Seamless integration with Topcon's design and office software
Cons
- Steep learning curve for operators new to 3D control
- High upfront cost limits accessibility for small contractors
- Limited compatibility outside Topcon machine ecosystem
Best For
Mid-to-large paving contractors focused on high-volume road projects requiring sub-inch precision.
Pricing
Custom quote required; controller and software kits typically range from $20,000 to $35,000.
Procore
enterpriseCloud construction management platform for scheduling, tracking, and collaborating on asphalt paving jobs.
Advanced Daily Construction Report tool for detailed, weather-sensitive logging critical to asphalt paving quality control and disputes.
Procore is a comprehensive cloud-based construction management platform designed to streamline projects from bidding through closeout, offering tools for scheduling, budgeting, document control, RFIs, submittals, and daily logs. For asphalt paving contractors, it supports general project oversight like tracking material deliveries, crew assignments, equipment usage, and weather-impacted progress reporting. While highly capable for broad construction needs, it lacks niche paving-specific features such as asphalt mix calculators or compaction testing integrations.
Pros
- Robust mobile app enables real-time field updates from paving sites, including photos and daily logs
- Strong financial tracking and job costing for asphalt material and labor expenses
- Extensive integrations with accounting and ERP systems used in construction
Cons
- No specialized tools for asphalt paving calculations, mix designs, or pavement quality metrics
- High cost structure better suited to larger firms than small paving contractors
- Steep learning curve due to extensive feature set and customization options
Best For
Mid-to-large asphalt paving companies handling complex, multi-phase projects that benefit from enterprise-grade construction management.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically $375-$600+ per month per project or user-based; annual contracts often exceed $10,000—contact sales for quotes.
Autodesk Civil 3D
enterpriseCivil engineering design software for modeling roads, corridors, and asphalt paving surfaces.
Dynamic corridor modeling that automatically updates asphalt pavement cross-sections and quantities with design changes
Autodesk Civil 3D is a comprehensive civil engineering design software that excels in infrastructure modeling, including road corridors with asphalt pavement layers. It supports detailed site grading, earthwork calculations, and surface generation essential for paving project planning. While powerful for design phases, it lacks specialized tools for on-site paving operations like mix design optimization or paver machine control.
Pros
- Advanced corridor modeling for precise asphalt layer design and volume calculations
- Seamless integration with BIM workflows and other Autodesk tools for collaborative projects
- Robust earthwork and quantity takeoff capabilities tailored to paving projects
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training for non-expert users
- Not optimized for asphalt-specific tasks like material mix simulation or real-time paving control
- High subscription cost may not justify use for paving-only workflows
Best For
Civil engineers and infrastructure firms designing complex road and highway projects involving asphalt pavements.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at approximately $2,310 USD; monthly options available at $235 USD.
Bluebeam Revu
specializedPDF markup and takeoff tool for measuring and annotating paving plans and quantities.
Dynamic measurement tools with customizable scales for accurate asphalt area and volume takeoffs from digital plans
Bluebeam Revu is a robust PDF editing and markup software widely used in construction for reviewing blueprints, performing takeoffs, and collaborating on documents. For asphalt paving, it supports plan markups, quantity measurements for material estimates, and issue tracking on paving layouts. However, it lacks specialized tools for mix design, paving simulations, or job management specific to asphalt operations.
Pros
- Superior PDF markup and annotation for paving plan reviews
- Precise measurement tools for asphalt quantity takeoffs
- Real-time collaboration via Studio Sessions for team coordination
Cons
- No dedicated asphalt mix design or paving calculation modules
- Absence of job scheduling, bidding, or inventory management for paving crews
- High cost relative to paving-specific functionality
Best For
Asphalt paving estimators and project managers needing strong PDF tools for plan review alongside dedicated paving software.
Pricing
Starts at $240/user/year (Basics), $349 (Core), $400+ (Complete); perpetual licenses from $360 one-time.
STACK
specializedCloud-based digital takeoff and estimating software for fast asphalt material quantity computation.
Lightning Takeoff tool for ultra-fast, on-screen measurements directly from digital plans
STACK (stackct.com) is a cloud-based takeoff and estimating platform designed for construction professionals, including asphalt paving contractors, enabling fast digital measurements from PDFs and plans. It streamlines bid assembly, real-time collaboration among teams, and integration with accounting tools like QuickBooks for accurate job costing. While versatile for general construction, it supports paving-specific quantity takeoffs like tonnage calculations from areas and thicknesses.
Pros
- Lightning-fast digital takeoffs with precise area, length, and volume measurements ideal for asphalt quantities
- Unlimited users and projects on Pro plan with real-time collaboration
- Seamless QuickBooks integration for paving job costing and invoicing
Cons
- Limited built-in paving-specific tools like mix design or weather-adjusted calculators
- Moderate learning curve for advanced assembly and reporting features
- Customer support can be slower for non-enterprise users
Best For
Mid-sized asphalt paving contractors prioritizing efficient digital takeoffs and team-based estimating over specialized industry modules.
Pricing
Free for small jobs (up to 3 plans); Pro plan $2,495/year (unlimited users/projects/storage); Enterprise custom pricing.
PlanSwift
specializedOn-screen takeoff software that automates quantity extraction from paving blueprints.
Drag-and-drop assemblies for instant, customizable calculations of paving quantities like asphalt tonnage from measured areas
PlanSwift is a digital takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction trades, including asphalt paving, where users perform point-and-click measurements directly from PDFs and blueprints to calculate quantities like surface areas and asphalt tonnage. It supports customizable assemblies for paving-specific calculations, such as tonnage based on thickness and density, and generates professional bid summaries. While versatile for general construction estimating, it adapts well to paving projects through user-defined templates and integrations with accounting tools.
Pros
- Lightning-fast point-and-click takeoffs from digital plans
- Customizable assemblies for precise asphalt tonnage and material calculations
- Seamless integration with Excel, QuickBooks, and other estimating tools
Cons
- Lacks specialized paving features like GPS machine control or mix design optimization
- Windows-only desktop app with no native mobile support
- Steep initial learning curve for complex assemblies
Best For
Asphalt paving estimators and contractors focused on accurate quantity takeoffs and bidding from blueprints in general construction workflows.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at $1,749 per user, plus ~20% annual maintenance fee; volume discounts available.
Carlson Takeoff
specializedConstruction takeoff suite for earthwork and asphalt paving volume and cost estimation.
Dynamic 3D surface modeling with pay item takeoff for precise asphalt layer volumetrics and automated bid item quantities
Carlson Takeoff is a powerful quantity takeoff and estimating software from Carlson Software, designed for civil construction professionals to extract precise quantities from 2D plans and 3D models. It supports asphalt paving workflows by enabling surface modeling, area/volume calculations for base layers, asphalt courses, and overlays, along with pay item assignments for bidding. The tool integrates with CAD files and generates detailed reports, making it suitable for road and site paving projects.
Pros
- Advanced 2D/3D takeoff for accurate asphalt volume and area calculations
- Pay Item system for efficient bid preparation in paving projects
- Seamless integration with Carlson field and design software
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to dense interface and advanced features
- Not specialized for real-time paving operations or mix design
- Resource-intensive for very large plan sets
Best For
Experienced civil estimators and contractors managing asphalt paving takeoffs in road and site development projects.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at approximately $3,000-$5,000 depending on modules, plus annual maintenance (~20%); subscription options from $1,200/year.
Conclusion
HCSS HeavyBid leads as the top asphalt paving software, excelling in comprehensive preconstruction estimating and bidding for heavy civil projects. AGTEK Gradework and Trimble Roadworks offer strong alternatives, with AGTEK focusing on 3D earthwork and GPS control, and Trimble on precise layer placement. Together, these tools highlight the breadth of solutions available, ensuring success across varied asphalt paving needs.
Begin your asphalt paving projects with HCSS HeavyBid—its tailored features are built to streamline estimating and bidding, empowering efficient and accurate outcomes.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
