Quick Overview
- 1#1: BuildingConnected - Cloud-based platform for general contractors to manage subcontractor invitations, bids, and awards efficiently.
- 2#2: PlanHub - Online marketplace connecting general contractors with subcontractors for project bidding and collaboration.
- 3#3: ConstructConnect - Comprehensive platform offering project leads, digital plans, specs, and bid management for construction pros.
- 4#4: STACK - Cloud takeoff and estimating software that accelerates accurate bidding for construction projects.
- 5#5: Procore - Construction management platform with integrated bid boards, subcontractor outreach, and bid analysis tools.
- 6#6: HCSS HeavyBid - Advanced estimating and bidding software tailored for heavy civil and highway construction projects.
- 7#7: BidClerk - Subscription service delivering private construction leads and bid opportunities directly to subscribers.
- 8#8: Bluebeam Revu - PDF-based takeoff, markup, and collaboration tool essential for preparing construction bids and estimates.
- 9#9: BidNet Direct - Aggregates and distributes government RFPs, bids, and procurement opportunities nationwide.
- 10#10: Togal.AI - AI-powered automated takeoff software that instantly extracts quantities from plans to speed up bidding.
We ranked these tools by evaluating features, user-friendliness, and overall value, ensuring they meet the diverse needs of contractors, subcontractors, and heavy civil pros while prioritizing reliability and effectiveness.
Comparison Table
Bidding software is a critical tool for construction teams, simplifying bid creation, tracking, and collaboration. This comparison table breaks down key options like BuildingConnected, PlanHub, ConstructConnect, STACK, Procore, and more, helping readers identify features, usability, and suitability for their projects.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | BuildingConnected Cloud-based platform for general contractors to manage subcontractor invitations, bids, and awards efficiently. | enterprise | 9.5/10 | 9.7/10 | 8.9/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 2 | PlanHub Online marketplace connecting general contractors with subcontractors for project bidding and collaboration. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 9.3/10 |
| 3 | ConstructConnect Comprehensive platform offering project leads, digital plans, specs, and bid management for construction pros. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | STACK Cloud takeoff and estimating software that accelerates accurate bidding for construction projects. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 5 | Procore Construction management platform with integrated bid boards, subcontractor outreach, and bid analysis tools. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 6 | HCSS HeavyBid Advanced estimating and bidding software tailored for heavy civil and highway construction projects. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.4/10 | 7.3/10 |
| 7 | BidClerk Subscription service delivering private construction leads and bid opportunities directly to subscribers. | specialized | 7.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 8 | Bluebeam Revu PDF-based takeoff, markup, and collaboration tool essential for preparing construction bids and estimates. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 9 | BidNet Direct Aggregates and distributes government RFPs, bids, and procurement opportunities nationwide. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | Togal.AI AI-powered automated takeoff software that instantly extracts quantities from plans to speed up bidding. | general_ai | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 |
Cloud-based platform for general contractors to manage subcontractor invitations, bids, and awards efficiently.
Online marketplace connecting general contractors with subcontractors for project bidding and collaboration.
Comprehensive platform offering project leads, digital plans, specs, and bid management for construction pros.
Cloud takeoff and estimating software that accelerates accurate bidding for construction projects.
Construction management platform with integrated bid boards, subcontractor outreach, and bid analysis tools.
Advanced estimating and bidding software tailored for heavy civil and highway construction projects.
Subscription service delivering private construction leads and bid opportunities directly to subscribers.
PDF-based takeoff, markup, and collaboration tool essential for preparing construction bids and estimates.
Aggregates and distributes government RFPs, bids, and procurement opportunities nationwide.
AI-powered automated takeoff software that instantly extracts quantities from plans to speed up bidding.
BuildingConnected
enterpriseCloud-based platform for general contractors to manage subcontractor invitations, bids, and awards efficiently.
The industry-leading network of over 800,000 pre-vetted subcontractors, enabling one-click bid invitations and faster project mobilization.
BuildingConnected, now part of Autodesk Construction Cloud, is a premier bidding and subcontractor management platform designed for general contractors to streamline preconstruction workflows. It enables efficient bid invitations, qualification tracking, and bid leveling across projects, with tools for document management and analytics. The software connects users to a vast network of over 800,000 verified subcontractors, reducing bidding timelines and improving subcontractor selection.
Pros
- Massive verified subcontractor database for rapid bid sourcing
- Advanced bid leveling and analytics for data-driven decisions
- Seamless integrations with Autodesk tools like BIM 360 and Procore
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small contractors or low-volume users
- Steeper learning curve for non-technical teams
- Limited customization options in lower-tier plans
Best For
Large general contractors and construction firms handling complex, high-volume bidding processes who need robust subcontractor management.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing starting at approximately $1,200/month for standard plans, scaling with project volume and users; enterprise options available.
PlanHub
specializedOnline marketplace connecting general contractors with subcontractors for project bidding and collaboration.
The largest verified subcontractor database, enabling quick access to qualified bids without extensive outreach.
PlanHub is a specialized bidding platform for the construction industry that connects general contractors (GCs) with a vast network of subcontractors for project bidding. It enables GCs to post projects, send targeted bid invites, manage submissions, and collaborate on documents in a centralized hub. Subcontractors benefit from free access to search opportunities, submit bids, and build profiles to increase visibility.
Pros
- Extensive verified network of over 400,000 subcontractors
- Free for subcontractors with easy project discovery
- Robust bid management tools including invites and document sharing
Cons
- Primarily focused on construction, less versatile for other industries
- GC pricing scales with usage and can be costly for high-volume users
- Limited advanced analytics and integrations compared to enterprise alternatives
Best For
General contractors and subcontractors in construction seeking a large network for efficient bid sourcing and management.
Pricing
Free for subcontractors; GC plans start at $99/month for Basic, up to custom Enterprise pricing.
ConstructConnect
enterpriseComprehensive platform offering project leads, digital plans, specs, and bid management for construction pros.
Unmatched database of public and private construction projects with real-time updates and owner contact intelligence
ConstructConnect is a leading construction intelligence platform that delivers project leads, bidding opportunities, and detailed preconstruction data to contractors across North America. It includes tools for bid management, digital planrooms, takeoff software, and analytics to help users identify, analyze, and pursue projects efficiently. The platform aggregates public and private sector opportunities, streamlining the bidding process from lead discovery to submission.
Pros
- Vast database of over 1 million active projects with rich details
- Integrated takeoff, estimating, and bid board tools
- Advanced search filters and project analytics for targeted bidding
Cons
- Steep pricing for full access
- Clunky interface with a learning curve
- Occasional inaccuracies in project data or updates
Best For
Mid-to-large general contractors and subcontractors seeking comprehensive nationwide project leads and bidding management.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing starting at around $5,000-$10,000 annually per user, depending on modules like leads, takeoff, and analytics.
STACK
specializedCloud takeoff and estimating software that accelerates accurate bidding for construction projects.
Hybrid takeoff engine that auto-detects measurements while allowing precise manual adjustments for unmatched speed and accuracy
STACK (stackct.com) is a cloud-based takeoff and estimating platform tailored for construction bidding, enabling users to perform precise quantity takeoffs from PDFs, images, and blueprints. It streamlines the bidding process with customizable estimating templates, assemblies for common trades like roofing and siding, and real-time collaboration tools. The software integrates with accounting systems like QuickBooks and Sage, helping contractors generate professional bids quickly and accurately.
Pros
- Lightning-fast digital takeoffs with hybrid automated/manual tools
- Customizable bid templates and assemblies for various trades
- Robust mobile app and integrations with accounting software
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers can be costly for small teams
- Initial learning curve for advanced takeoff features
- Limited built-in reporting compared to enterprise competitors
Best For
Small to mid-sized construction contractors in roofing, siding, or general trades needing fast, accurate bidding from digital plans.
Pricing
Starts at $2,499/year for Pro plan (unlimited users), $4,188/year for Premier, with custom Enterprise pricing.
Procore
enterpriseConstruction management platform with integrated bid boards, subcontractor outreach, and bid analysis tools.
Bid Board for centralized, real-time bid management and automated comparisons across subcontractors
Procore is a comprehensive cloud-based construction management platform with robust bidding capabilities, enabling general contractors to manage invitations to bid (ITB), track subcontractor responses, and compare bids through its Bid Board module. It streamlines the preconstruction process by integrating bidding with drawing management, estimating takeoffs, and subcontractor qualification. While not a standalone bidding tool, it excels in collaborative bid workflows within larger project ecosystems.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Procore's full suite for drawings, RFIs, and project management
- Powerful Bid Board for real-time subcontractor bid tracking and comparisons
- Advanced subcontractor database with qualification and performance tracking
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive feature set
- High cost, especially for smaller firms or standalone bidding needs
- Limited advanced estimating tools compared to specialized bidding software
Best For
Mid-to-large general contractors seeking integrated bidding within enterprise-level construction management.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically $500+/month minimum for core + bidding modules, billed per project or user.
HCSS HeavyBid
enterpriseAdvanced estimating and bidding software tailored for heavy civil and highway construction projects.
Bid Item Manager for dynamic, real-time bid adjustments using abstracted cost sheets and historical data
HCSS HeavyBid is a specialized bidding and estimating software designed for heavy construction contractors in highway, heavy civil, and utility sectors. It facilitates accurate bid preparation through item-based estimating, historical cost data analysis, and comprehensive bid lifecycle management from pre-bid planning to post-award analysis. The platform excels in subcontractor bid tabulation, bid day decision support, and seamless integration with other HCSS tools like HeavyJob and HeavyMax.
Pros
- Robust item-based estimating with historical bid data for precise cost forecasting
- Advanced bid day analyzer and subcontractor portal for real-time decision-making
- Deep integrations with scheduling, accounting, and field management software
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training for new users
- High implementation and subscription costs
- Primarily desktop-focused with limited native mobile capabilities
Best For
Large heavy civil construction firms handling complex DOT and infrastructure bids that require detailed item-level analysis and subcontractor coordination.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $10,000-$50,000+ annually depending on users, modules, and integrations.
BidClerk
specializedSubscription service delivering private construction leads and bid opportunities directly to subscribers.
Largest repository of private construction bids unavailable on public platforms
BidClerk is a bidding software platform designed for construction professionals, offering access to a massive database of public and private bid opportunities across the United States. Users can search projects by location, trade, value, and keywords, download digital plans and specs, and manage bids through customizable tracking tools. It also provides market insights and notifications to help contractors stay ahead in competitive bidding.
Pros
- Extensive database with over 400,000 private projects annually
- Advanced search filters and real-time notifications
- Integrated bid tracking and collaboration tools
Cons
- Dated user interface that feels clunky
- Pricing escalates quickly for full access
- Limited integrations with estimating or project management software
Best For
Subcontractors and mid-sized contractors hunting for nationwide construction bids without in-house lead generation.
Pricing
Weekly access from $69, monthly plans from $199-$499, enterprise custom pricing.
Bluebeam Revu
specializedPDF-based takeoff, markup, and collaboration tool essential for preparing construction bids and estimates.
Customizable, shareable measurement toolsets that automate and standardize takeoffs across teams
Bluebeam Revu is a specialized PDF editor for the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry, featuring digital takeoff and measurement tools that enable estimators to quantify materials and lengths directly from PDF drawings. It supports bidding workflows through customizable markups, quantity summaries, and Excel integration for cost estimating. While excelling in plan review and collaboration via Bluebeam Studio, it functions more as a takeoff companion than a comprehensive bid management platform.
Pros
- Powerful digital takeoff tools with accurate measurements and area/volume calculations
- Real-time collaboration through Studio Sessions for team bid reviews
- Seamless Excel export for quantity data and cost integration
Cons
- Limited native bid management, such as subcontractor outreach or bid leveling
- Advanced features require the expensive eXtreme edition
- Not ideal for non-PDF formats or full project estimating workflows
Best For
AEC estimators and contractors focused on PDF-based takeoffs and collaborative plan reviews in mid-sized firms.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions from $239/user (Basics) to $449/user (eXtreme); perpetual licenses available with maintenance fees.
BidNet Direct
enterpriseAggregates and distributes government RFPs, bids, and procurement opportunities nationwide.
Direct access to exclusive bid postings from 900+ government agencies not available on general sites
BidNet Direct is a specialized platform that aggregates and distributes government bidding opportunities, including RFPs, RFQs, and bids from state, local, and federal agencies across the US. It enables vendors to search a comprehensive database, receive customized alerts, download bid documents, and manage submissions in one centralized hub. The software streamlines the procurement process for public sector contracts, helping businesses stay competitive in government sales.
Pros
- Extensive database of over 110,000 government opportunities updated daily
- Customizable email alerts and advanced search filters for targeted bidding
- Integrated bid management tools including document access and tracking
Cons
- Limited to public sector bids with minimal private market coverage
- Subscription pricing can be steep for small businesses or infrequent users
- Occasional user reports of interface glitches during peak bid seasons
Best For
Mid-sized contractors and suppliers focused on securing state and local government contracts.
Pricing
Subscription tiers start at $495/year for basic access (one state), up to $2,995/year for nationwide premium coverage with advanced features.
Togal.AI
general_aiAI-powered automated takeoff software that instantly extracts quantities from plans to speed up bidding.
Patented AI that auto-detects and quantifies plan elements in seconds without templates
Togal.AI is an AI-powered takeoff software that automates quantity extraction from construction blueprints, enabling rapid measurements of areas, lengths, counts, and volumes. It uses machine learning to detect elements like walls, doors, and fixtures directly from PDF or CAD files, significantly speeding up the pre-bid estimation process. While focused primarily on takeoffs, it integrates with estimating tools to support bidding workflows for contractors and estimators.
Pros
- Ultra-fast AI-automated takeoffs saving up to 90% of manual time
- High accuracy on standard plans with minimal training data needed
- Cloud-based collaboration for team reviews and exports to Excel/estimating software
Cons
- Limited full-suite bidding features like vendor management or bid invites
- Performance drops on highly complex or handwritten plans
- Enterprise pricing may not suit small firms or infrequent users
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms and estimators needing quick, accurate takeoffs to accelerate bid preparation without full manual measurement.
Pricing
Custom subscription starting at ~$500/month per user, with per-project options and enterprise tiers based on volume.
Conclusion
The top three tools—BuildingConnected, PlanHub, and ConstructConnect—distinguish themselves as leading solutions, with each providing distinct value for construction professionals. BuildingConnected stands as the definitive choice, excelling in efficient subcontractor management and bid workflows. PlanHub and ConstructConnect offer strong alternatives, with PlanHub focusing on collaborative market connections and ConstructConnect delivering comprehensive project leads and planning tools, suiting varied needs.
Begin optimizing your bidding process by exploring BuildingConnected, and discover why it remains the top pick for streamlined, effective project management.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison