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Construction Infrastructure

Top 10 Best Civil Takeoff Software of 2026

Discover the top 10 best civil takeoff software for accurate measurements and project efficiency. Find trusted tools to streamline your workflow—get your guide now!

Sarah Mitchell

Sarah Mitchell

Feb 11, 2026

10 tools comparedExpert reviewed
Independent evaluation · Unbiased commentary · Updated regularly
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Accurate quantity takeoff and efficient project estimation are critical to successful civil construction, yet a diverse range of tools exists to address varied needs. The software below—from specialized earthwork calculators to CAD-integrated suites—are chosen to streamline workflows and enhance precision across projects involving utilities, structures, and more.

Quick Overview

  1. 1#1: AGTEK - Specialized earthwork takeoff software for precise volume calculations, GPS modeling, and production tracking in heavy civil construction.
  2. 2#2: Trimble Business Center - Powerful surveying and civil engineering software for 3D takeoff, earthwork analysis, and machine control data preparation.
  3. 3#3: Carlson Takeoff - Comprehensive civil takeoff suite handling earthwork, paving, structures, and utilities with CAD integration.
  4. 4#4: InSite Elevation Pro - Automated civil quantity takeoff and estimating from PDFs for earthwork, sitework, and underground utilities.
  5. 5#5: Bluebeam Revu - PDF markup and digital takeoff tool for accurate quantity extraction and measurements in civil construction plans.
  6. 6#6: PlanSwift - Fast digital takeoff software for measuring plans and generating reports suitable for civil estimating workflows.
  7. 7#7: STACK - Cloud-based takeoff and estimating platform with collaboration for civil and construction quantity takeoffs.
  8. 8#8: MudShark - Automated earthwork cut/fill volume calculation software from 2D plans and surfaces for civil projects.
  9. 9#9: Kubla Cubed - Earthworks estimation tool for generating volumes, hauls, and reports from drawings or 3D models in civil engineering.
  10. 10#10: HCSS HeavyBid - Heavy civil bidding and estimating software with built-in takeoff for job costing and project analysis.

Tools were evaluated based on precision in volume calculations, versatility in addressing earthwork, paving, and utility tasks, ease of use, and overall value, ensuring they meet the demands of both budget-conscious and enterprise-level civil projects.

Comparison Table

Civil takeoff software simplifies construction estimation and planning, with tools including AGTEK, Trimble Business Center, Carlson Takeoff, InSite Elevation Pro, Bluebeam Revu, and others. This comparison table outlines key features, workflow strengths, and suitability for different projects to guide readers in choosing the right solution.

1AGTEK logo9.6/10

Specialized earthwork takeoff software for precise volume calculations, GPS modeling, and production tracking in heavy civil construction.

Features
9.8/10
Ease
8.2/10
Value
9.1/10

Powerful surveying and civil engineering software for 3D takeoff, earthwork analysis, and machine control data preparation.

Features
9.6/10
Ease
7.8/10
Value
8.5/10

Comprehensive civil takeoff suite handling earthwork, paving, structures, and utilities with CAD integration.

Features
9.2/10
Ease
7.6/10
Value
8.1/10

Automated civil quantity takeoff and estimating from PDFs for earthwork, sitework, and underground utilities.

Features
8.7/10
Ease
7.6/10
Value
7.9/10

PDF markup and digital takeoff tool for accurate quantity extraction and measurements in civil construction plans.

Features
8.0/10
Ease
8.7/10
Value
7.6/10
6PlanSwift logo8.2/10

Fast digital takeoff software for measuring plans and generating reports suitable for civil estimating workflows.

Features
8.5/10
Ease
8.8/10
Value
8.0/10
7STACK logo8.2/10

Cloud-based takeoff and estimating platform with collaboration for civil and construction quantity takeoffs.

Features
7.9/10
Ease
9.1/10
Value
8.3/10
8MudShark logo8.2/10

Automated earthwork cut/fill volume calculation software from 2D plans and surfaces for civil projects.

Features
8.8/10
Ease
7.5/10
Value
7.8/10

Earthworks estimation tool for generating volumes, hauls, and reports from drawings or 3D models in civil engineering.

Features
8.5/10
Ease
8.0/10
Value
7.8/10

Heavy civil bidding and estimating software with built-in takeoff for job costing and project analysis.

Features
8.5/10
Ease
6.5/10
Value
7.2/10
1
AGTEK logo

AGTEK

specialized

Specialized earthwork takeoff software for precise volume calculations, GPS modeling, and production tracking in heavy civil construction.

Overall Rating9.6/10
Features
9.8/10
Ease of Use
8.2/10
Value
9.1/10
Standout Feature

Patented 3D Zone Modeling for dynamic surface creation from simple linework, enabling rapid and precise cut/fill analysis without full TIN surfaces

AGTEK is a leading civil takeoff and earthwork software suite tailored for heavy civil construction, site development, and excavation projects. It provides advanced 3D modeling capabilities to generate precise quantity takeoffs from PDFs, CAD files, point clouds, and drone data, calculating cut/fill volumes, subgrade quantities, and material balances with exceptional accuracy. The software integrates seamlessly with GPS machine control systems, enabling real-time progress tracking and bid-winning estimates for complex projects.

Pros

  • Unmatched accuracy in 3D earthwork volume calculations and mass haul optimization
  • Deep integration with Trimble, Topcon, and Leica GPS/machine control systems
  • Comprehensive reporting tools for bids, progress tracking, and forensic analysis

Cons

  • Steep learning curve requiring dedicated training for full proficiency
  • High upfront and ongoing costs suited for enterprise users only
  • Primarily desktop-based with limited mobile/cloud accessibility

Best For

Large-scale civil contractors and earthwork firms handling complex sitework projects that demand GPS-integrated 3D takeoffs.

Pricing

Modular perpetual licenses or subscriptions starting at $10,000+ annually per seat, scaling with modules like Gradework and ZoneMarker; custom quotes required.

Visit AGTEKagtek.com
2
Trimble Business Center logo

Trimble Business Center

enterprise

Powerful surveying and civil engineering software for 3D takeoff, earthwork analysis, and machine control data preparation.

Overall Rating9.1/10
Features
9.6/10
Ease of Use
7.8/10
Value
8.5/10
Standout Feature

Dynamic Corridor and Surface modeling for real-time earthwork volume adjustments and scenario analysis

Trimble Business Center (TBC) is a powerful office software suite tailored for surveyors, civil engineers, and contractors, specializing in survey data processing, 3D terrain modeling, and precise quantity takeoffs for earthwork volumes. It enables users to import field data from Trimble instruments, perform cut/fill calculations, generate detailed reports, and integrate with CAD and BIM workflows for comprehensive civil project management. As a robust solution for civil takeoff, TBC stands out for its accuracy in handling complex site models and volumetric computations essential for infrastructure and heavy civil projects.

Pros

  • Exceptional earthwork takeoff capabilities with dynamic 3D surface modeling and precise volume calculations
  • Seamless integration with Trimble field hardware and data formats for streamlined workflows
  • Advanced reporting tools and CAD export options for detailed project documentation

Cons

  • Steep learning curve due to extensive feature set and complex interface
  • High upfront and ongoing costs may deter smaller firms
  • Resource-heavy, requiring powerful hardware for optimal performance on large datasets

Best For

Large surveying firms and civil contractors managing complex infrastructure projects that demand integrated survey processing and accurate earthwork takeoffs.

Pricing

Perpetual licenses start at around $8,000-$12,000 per seat with annual maintenance (~20%), or subscription tiers from $2,500/year per user.

3
Carlson Takeoff logo

Carlson Takeoff

specialized

Comprehensive civil takeoff suite handling earthwork, paving, structures, and utilities with CAD integration.

Overall Rating8.4/10
Features
9.2/10
Ease of Use
7.6/10
Value
8.1/10
Standout Feature

Interactive 3D dynamic modeling for real-time cut/fill adjustments and volume optimization

Carlson Takeoff is a robust civil engineering software solution designed for precise quantity takeoff from 2D plans and 3D models, specializing in earthwork volumes, paving, structures, and utilities. It supports importing DWG, PDF, and point cloud data, enabling accurate cut/fill calculations and pay item bid generation. The tool integrates seamlessly with Carlson's broader suite, including Survey and Civil Suite, for streamlined workflows in construction estimating.

Pros

  • Powerful 3D earthwork volume calculations with dynamic cut/fill visualization
  • Broad file format support including PDF and point clouds
  • Strong integration with Carlson design and survey tools

Cons

  • Steep learning curve for new users due to dense interface
  • Dated UI compared to modern cloud-based competitors
  • Higher upfront cost without flexible trial periods

Best For

Mid-sized civil engineering and construction firms handling complex earthwork projects that require precise 3D modeling and integration with CAD workflows.

Pricing

Perpetual license starts at $1,995 for base module; annual maintenance $500+; subscription options from $75/month.

4
InSite Elevation Pro logo

InSite Elevation Pro

specialized

Automated civil quantity takeoff and estimating from PDFs for earthwork, sitework, and underground utilities.

Overall Rating8.2/10
Features
8.7/10
Ease of Use
7.6/10
Value
7.9/10
Standout Feature

Automated contour extraction and DTM generation directly from PDF plans

InSite Elevation Pro is a specialized civil takeoff software designed for earthwork estimation, enabling users to create accurate 3D terrain models from PDF plans, CAD files, and survey data. It excels in calculating cut and fill volumes, balance points, and mass haul diagrams with high precision for civil construction projects. The software provides robust visualization tools and reporting features to support bidding and project planning.

Pros

  • Highly accurate volume calculations and earthwork analysis
  • Intuitive 3D surface modeling from plans and surveys
  • Comprehensive reporting and export options for bids

Cons

  • Steep learning curve for non-expert users
  • Limited native integrations with popular BIM platforms
  • Windows-only with no mobile app support

Best For

Civil estimators and contractors focused on precise earthwork takeoffs for mid-to-large infrastructure projects.

Pricing

Perpetual license starts at $2,495 with optional annual maintenance ($495/year); subscription plans from $195/month.

5
Bluebeam Revu logo

Bluebeam Revu

specialized

PDF markup and digital takeoff tool for accurate quantity extraction and measurements in civil construction plans.

Overall Rating8.3/10
Features
8.0/10
Ease of Use
8.7/10
Value
7.6/10
Standout Feature

Dynamic measurement tools with automatic quantity legends and cut/fill earthwork summaries

Bluebeam Revu is a versatile PDF editor and markup tool tailored for the AEC industry, enabling precise quantity takeoffs from civil engineering plans. It supports measurements for lengths, areas, perimeters, volumes, and earthwork cut/fill calculations directly on PDFs, with tools for counts, custom scales, and data export to Excel. While powerful for 2D takeoffs, it integrates collaboration features via Bluebeam Studio for team reviews and markups.

Pros

  • Highly accurate 2D measurement tools with visual overlays and dynamic scaling
  • Customizable toolsets and scripting for repeatable civil takeoffs
  • Excellent PDF collaboration and Excel export for estimators

Cons

  • Lacks native 3D surface modeling and advanced DTM for complex earthwork
  • Subscription pricing adds up for small teams
  • Advanced takeoff features require eXtreme edition and training

Best For

Civil estimators and engineers handling 2D PDF plans who value integrated markup and collaboration over specialized 3D civil modeling.

Pricing

Annual subscriptions: Basics $240/user, Core $349/user, eXtreme $549/user; perpetual licenses also available.

6
PlanSwift logo

PlanSwift

other

Fast digital takeoff software for measuring plans and generating reports suitable for civil estimating workflows.

Overall Rating8.2/10
Features
8.5/10
Ease of Use
8.8/10
Value
8.0/10
Standout Feature

Drag-and-drop assemblies that allow users to define measurement patterns once and replicate them instantly across plans for efficient bulk takeoffs

PlanSwift is an on-screen digital takeoff and estimating software widely used in construction for quick quantity extraction from PDFs, scanned plans, and CAD files. It excels in 2D measurements for civil projects like earthwork volumes, paving areas, utilities lengths, and site grading via point-and-click tools and customizable assemblies. While versatile across trades, it supports civil takeoff workflows through accurate scaling, layers, and export options to Excel or estimating platforms.

Pros

  • Intuitive drag-and-drop assemblies for rapid replication of measurements
  • High accuracy in 2D takeoffs from various file formats including PDFs and DWGs
  • Seamless integration with Excel and popular estimating software like Quick Bid

Cons

  • Lacks advanced 3D surface modeling or DTM capabilities native to civil-specific tools like Agtek
  • Limited automation for complex civil earthwork cut/fill calculations without add-ons
  • Interface feels dated compared to modern cloud-based alternatives

Best For

Civil estimators and contractors performing 2D quantity takeoffs from plans who prioritize speed and customization over 3D modeling.

Pricing

One-time license starting at $1,595 for Pro version, plus optional $495 annual maintenance for updates and support.

Visit PlanSwiftplanswift.com
7
STACK logo

STACK

enterprise

Cloud-based takeoff and estimating platform with collaboration for civil and construction quantity takeoffs.

Overall Rating8.2/10
Features
7.9/10
Ease of Use
9.1/10
Value
8.3/10
Standout Feature

Dynamic Assemblies that allow stacking measurements for automated volume and cost calculations tailored to civil work

STACK (stackct.com) is a cloud-based takeoff and estimating software designed for construction professionals, enabling fast digital quantity takeoffs from PDF plans and drawings. It excels in civil takeoff applications such as earthwork volumes, site grading, paving, and utilities through intuitive on-screen measuring tools and customizable assemblies. The platform supports team collaboration in real-time, integrating seamlessly with estimating workflows to streamline bidding processes.

Pros

  • Extremely user-friendly interface for quick 2D takeoffs
  • Real-time cloud collaboration for teams
  • Customizable assemblies for efficient civil quantity calculations

Cons

  • Limited advanced 3D modeling or DTM integration for complex earthwork
  • Fewer civil-specific tools compared to specialized software like Agtek
  • Subscription costs can add up for larger teams

Best For

Civil estimators and subcontractors who need fast, collaborative 2D takeoffs from PDFs without deep 3D analysis.

Pricing

Annual subscriptions start at $2,499 for solo users, with team plans from $4,999+ scaling by users and storage.

Visit STACKstackct.com
8
MudShark logo

MudShark

specialized

Automated earthwork cut/fill volume calculation software from 2D plans and surfaces for civil projects.

Overall Rating8.2/10
Features
8.8/10
Ease of Use
7.5/10
Value
7.8/10
Standout Feature

Integrated mass haul diagram and optimization for efficient earthmoving planning

MudShark is a specialized civil takeoff software focused on earthworks estimation, allowing users to import CAD files, digitize strings and surfaces, and calculate precise cut/fill volumes. It excels in generating mass haul diagrams, balance reports, and detailed quantity takeoffs for site development projects. The tool is tailored for civil contractors handling complex terrain analysis and earthmoving quantities.

Pros

  • Highly accurate volume calculations for cut/fill and earthworks
  • Advanced mass haul analysis and optimization tools
  • Robust reporting and export capabilities for tenders

Cons

  • Dated interface that feels less modern
  • Steep learning curve for new users
  • Limited native integrations with popular project management software

Best For

Earthworks estimators and civil contractors managing large-scale site grading and excavation projects.

Pricing

Perpetual licenses start at around $4,950 AUD per seat, with annual maintenance fees of 20% of license cost; subscription options available.

Visit MudSharkmudshark.net
9
Kubla Cubed logo

Kubla Cubed

specialized

Earthworks estimation tool for generating volumes, hauls, and reports from drawings or 3D models in civil engineering.

Overall Rating8.1/10
Features
8.5/10
Ease of Use
8.0/10
Value
7.8/10
Standout Feature

String-based rapid 3D modeling that converts simple 2D outlines into precise surfaces in seconds

Kubla Cubed is a specialized civil takeoff software focused on earthworks quantity estimation, enabling users to rapidly create 3D models from 2D plans, PDFs, or surveys using strings and surfaces. It excels in calculating cut, fill, net volumes, and optimization for site development projects. The software generates detailed reports and mass haul diagrams, making it efficient for civil estimators handling grading and excavation takeoffs.

Pros

  • Rapid 3D surface generation from strings for quick volume calcs
  • Accurate earthworks reporting with mass haul and optimization tools
  • Perpetual licensing option provides long-term cost savings

Cons

  • Primarily focused on earthworks, lacking broader civil elements like utilities or structures
  • User interface appears dated compared to modern competitors
  • Limited native integrations with CAD/BIM software

Best For

Civil estimators and engineers who specialize in earthworks and site grading takeoffs for construction bidding.

Pricing

Perpetual license at $1,495; optional annual maintenance ~$300; subscription alternatives available.

Visit Kubla Cubedkublasoftware.com
10
HCSS HeavyBid logo

HCSS HeavyBid

enterprise

Heavy civil bidding and estimating software with built-in takeoff for job costing and project analysis.

Overall Rating7.8/10
Features
8.5/10
Ease of Use
6.5/10
Value
7.2/10
Standout Feature

Bid item-linked takeoff engine that automatically populates quantities into detailed cost abstracts

HCSS HeavyBid is a robust estimating and bidding platform tailored for heavy civil construction, featuring integrated 2D takeoff tools for quantity extraction from PDFs, CAD files, and paper plans. It excels in linking takeoffs directly to cost databases, assemblies, and bid sheets for accurate project pricing. While powerful for complex civil projects like highways and earthwork, it emphasizes end-to-end bidding over standalone takeoff workflows.

Pros

  • Deep integration with takeoff, estimating, and job costing modules
  • Extensive customizable item libraries and assemblies for civil work
  • Multi-user collaboration for bid preparation

Cons

  • Steep learning curve with complex interface
  • Dated UI compared to modern takeoff specialists
  • High cost limits accessibility for smaller firms

Best For

Large heavy civil contractors needing integrated takeoff and bidding for highway, sitework, and infrastructure projects.

Pricing

Custom enterprise pricing upon request; typically $5,000+ annually per user with modular add-ons.

Conclusion

In a landscape of diverse civil takeoff software, the top three tools rise to the forefront—AGTEK stands as the clear leader, excelling in precise volume calculations, GPS modeling, and production tracking for heavy civil projects. Trimble Business Center follows closely, offering powerful 3D takeoff and machine control data preparation, ideal for those integrating modern surveying workflows. Carlson Takeoff completes the top three, boasting a comprehensive suite with CAD integration for earthwork, paving, and utilities. Together, these tools redefine efficiency, with AGTEK emerging as the top choice for accuracy and versatility.

AGTEK logo
Our Top Pick
AGTEK

Don’t settle for less—explore AGTEK first for your next civil project; its tailored features for heavy civil construction make it the ultimate partner in precise takeoff and estimating.