Quick Overview
- 1#1: Procore - Comprehensive construction management platform with integrated bid management, subcontractor outreach, and preconstruction tools.
- 2#2: BuildingConnected - Cloud-based subcontractor bid management and invitation-to-bid system streamlining preconstruction workflows.
- 3#3: ConstructConnect - Project intelligence platform providing bidding opportunities, plans, and specs for general contractors and subs.
- 4#4: PlanHub - Online marketplace connecting general contractors with subcontractors for project bids and collaboration.
- 5#5: Stack - Cloud takeoff and estimating software enabling fast quantity takeoffs and accurate bid creation.
- 6#6: HCSS HeavyBid - Robust estimating and bidding solution optimized for heavy civil and highway construction projects.
- 7#7: Sage Estimating - Advanced cost estimating software with databases and tools for precise construction bidding.
- 8#8: PlanSwift - Digital takeoff software that accelerates quantity calculations and bid assemblies from plans.
- 9#9: ConEst IntelliBid - Integrated digital takeoff and estimating system for detailed electrical and construction bids.
- 10#10: Bluebeam Revu - PDF markup and takeoff tool supporting quantity extraction and bid documentation collaboration.
We ranked tools based on feature richness, reliability, user-friendliness, and total value, ensuring a balanced review of tools that address the unique needs of general contractors, subcontractors, and heavy civil professionals.
Comparison Table
This comparison table evaluates leading construction bidding software tools like Procore, BuildingConnected, ConstructConnect, PlanHub, and Stack, offering a clear overview of their key features. Readers will learn to assess each platform’s usability, integration capabilities, and suitability for different project scales, aiding in informed choices for streamlining bidding workflows.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Procore Comprehensive construction management platform with integrated bid management, subcontractor outreach, and preconstruction tools. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.9/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 2 | BuildingConnected Cloud-based subcontractor bid management and invitation-to-bid system streamlining preconstruction workflows. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 3 | ConstructConnect Project intelligence platform providing bidding opportunities, plans, and specs for general contractors and subs. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | PlanHub Online marketplace connecting general contractors with subcontractors for project bids and collaboration. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 5 | Stack Cloud takeoff and estimating software enabling fast quantity takeoffs and accurate bid creation. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | HCSS HeavyBid Robust estimating and bidding solution optimized for heavy civil and highway construction projects. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.7/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 7 | Sage Estimating Advanced cost estimating software with databases and tools for precise construction bidding. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 8 | PlanSwift Digital takeoff software that accelerates quantity calculations and bid assemblies from plans. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | ConEst IntelliBid Integrated digital takeoff and estimating system for detailed electrical and construction bids. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | Bluebeam Revu PDF markup and takeoff tool supporting quantity extraction and bid documentation collaboration. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.3/10 |
Comprehensive construction management platform with integrated bid management, subcontractor outreach, and preconstruction tools.
Cloud-based subcontractor bid management and invitation-to-bid system streamlining preconstruction workflows.
Project intelligence platform providing bidding opportunities, plans, and specs for general contractors and subs.
Online marketplace connecting general contractors with subcontractors for project bids and collaboration.
Cloud takeoff and estimating software enabling fast quantity takeoffs and accurate bid creation.
Robust estimating and bidding solution optimized for heavy civil and highway construction projects.
Advanced cost estimating software with databases and tools for precise construction bidding.
Digital takeoff software that accelerates quantity calculations and bid assemblies from plans.
Integrated digital takeoff and estimating system for detailed electrical and construction bids.
PDF markup and takeoff tool supporting quantity extraction and bid documentation collaboration.
Procore
enterpriseComprehensive construction management platform with integrated bid management, subcontractor outreach, and preconstruction tools.
Advanced Bid Board with automated subcontractor invitations, comparative bid analysis, and integrated prequalification for efficient award decisions
Procore is a comprehensive cloud-based construction management platform with advanced bidding and preconstruction tools designed for general contractors and construction teams. It streamlines the entire bidding process, from creating invitations to bid (ITBs), managing bid boards, and handling subcontractor qualifications to bid analysis and award decisions. The software integrates bidding seamlessly with estimating, project management, and financials, enabling a unified workflow from preconstruction through project closeout.
Pros
- Robust bid management with ITB creation, bid leveling, and subcontractor databases
- Seamless integration across Procore's full suite for end-to-end construction workflows
- Real-time collaboration tools including document sharing and mobile access for on-site bidding updates
Cons
- High cost, especially for smaller firms or limited use cases
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features and customization options
- Pricing is quote-based with no transparent public tiers
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms and general contractors needing a scalable, all-in-one platform for professional bidding and project management.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $500-$600 per month for core modules, scaling with users, projects, and add-ons (enterprise plans often exceed $10K/year).
BuildingConnected
enterpriseCloud-based subcontractor bid management and invitation-to-bid system streamlining preconstruction workflows.
Industry-leading subcontractor qualification and matching database with automated prequalification tools
BuildingConnected, now part of Autodesk Construction Cloud, is a comprehensive construction bidding platform designed to streamline the preconstruction process for general contractors. It facilitates bid invitations, subcontractor management, document sharing, and bid analysis through an intuitive interface and vast subcontractor database. The software excels in automating workflows like bid leveling and qualification, helping teams select the best subs efficiently and reducing project risks.
Pros
- Extensive database of over 500,000 pre-qualified subcontractors
- Advanced bid leveling and analytics for data-driven decisions
- Seamless integrations with Autodesk tools and Procore
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small firms or low-volume users
- Steeper learning curve for advanced reporting features
- Limited customization options for non-standard bidding processes
Best For
Mid-to-large general contractors handling complex, high-volume bidding projects who need robust subcontractor management.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at around $5,000/year for basic plans, with custom enterprise pricing based on project volume and users.
ConstructConnect
enterpriseProject intelligence platform providing bidding opportunities, plans, and specs for general contractors and subs.
Unmatched access to 700,000+ vetted projects yearly with private owner data not found on public bid sites
ConstructConnect is a comprehensive construction intelligence platform specializing in project leads, bidding opportunities, and preconstruction tools for contractors across North America. It provides access to over 700,000 public and private projects annually, enabling users to discover leads, manage bids, download plans and specs via a digital plan room, and collaborate on RFIs and submittals. The software also includes market analytics, takeoff tools, and integrations with popular estimating solutions to streamline the entire bidding process.
Pros
- Vast database of high-quality public and private project leads
- Robust bid management and document collaboration tools
- Advanced analytics for market trends and competitor insights
Cons
- High subscription costs that may not suit small firms
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Interface feels dated compared to modern SaaS tools
Best For
Mid-to-large general contractors and subcontractors seeking nationwide bidding opportunities and detailed project intelligence.
Pricing
Custom tiered subscriptions starting at around $1,500-$5,000 annually per user, based on modules, project volume, and team size.
PlanHub
specializedOnline marketplace connecting general contractors with subcontractors for project bids and collaboration.
Its massive, verified subcontractor database, providing instant access to qualified local bidders without extensive outreach.
PlanHub is a cloud-based construction bidding platform that connects general contractors with a vast network of subcontractors for project bidding. It enables GCs to post projects, share plans and specifications, invite bids, and manage the entire bid process digitally. Subcontractors can search for relevant opportunities, submit competitive bids, and track their submissions efficiently, fostering a collaborative bidding environment.
Pros
- Extensive network of over 400,000 verified subcontractors for quick bidder access
- Free for subcontractors to join and submit bids, lowering entry barriers
- User-friendly interface with straightforward project posting and bid management
Cons
- General contractors need premium subscriptions for unlimited invites and advanced tools
- Limited integrations with popular estimating or project management software
- Plan room features can occasionally lag with large document sets
Best For
Small to mid-sized general contractors and subcontractors looking for a free or low-cost platform to source bids from a large, pre-vetted network.
Pricing
Free for subcontractors; general contractors get basic free access with premium plans starting at $99/month for unlimited project posts and bidder invites.
Stack
specializedCloud takeoff and estimating software enabling fast quantity takeoffs and accurate bid creation.
AI-driven automated takeoffs that instantly measure quantities from uploaded plans with high accuracy
Stack (stackct.com) is a cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating platform that uses AI to automate quantity takeoffs from PDFs, CAD files, and images, significantly speeding up the bidding process. It allows users to assemble bids, invite subcontractors, and collaborate in real-time on projects. The software integrates with popular accounting and project management tools, making it a comprehensive solution for construction bidding workflows.
Pros
- AI-powered takeoffs that are 10x faster than manual methods
- Real-time collaboration and subcontractor bid management
- Seamless integrations with QuickBooks, Procore, and more
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for solo contractors or very small firms
- AI occasionally requires manual corrections for complex plans
- Reporting and analytics features are somewhat limited
Best For
Mid-sized general contractors and subcontractors who need to handle high volumes of bids efficiently with AI automation.
Pricing
Starts at $99/user/month for basic plans (billed annually), with Pro at $199/user/month and custom Enterprise pricing; free trial available.
HCSS HeavyBid
specializedRobust estimating and bidding solution optimized for heavy civil and highway construction projects.
Visual Estimating worksheet with drag-and-drop bid assembly and real-time network diagramming for complex project structures
HCSS HeavyBid is a comprehensive construction bidding and estimating software designed primarily for heavy civil contractors handling infrastructure projects like highways, bridges, and utilities. It streamlines the entire bid process from digital takeoff integration to detailed cost estimating, subcontractor bid management, and bid analysis. The software excels in handling complex bid items, alternates, and network diagrams for accurate project pricing.
Pros
- Powerful tools for complex estimating with unlimited alternates and network diagramming
- Robust subcontractor bid invitation and tabulation system
- Seamless integration with HCSS field software and accounting systems
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to dense interface and customization options
- Higher cost structure not ideal for small contractors
- Primarily Windows-based with limited mobile accessibility
Best For
Large heavy civil construction firms managing intricate infrastructure bids that demand precise cost control and subcontractor coordination.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing; annual subscriptions typically start at $10,000+ for base modules, scaling with users, add-ons, and cloud features.
Sage Estimating
enterpriseAdvanced cost estimating software with databases and tools for precise construction bidding.
Proprietary Craftsman-powered national cost database with millions of line items for unmatched accuracy in material and labor pricing.
Sage Estimating is a comprehensive construction bidding software designed for creating accurate, detailed cost estimates using a vast national cost database and customizable assemblies. It streamlines the takeoff, estimating, and bid management processes, supporting everything from conceptual bids to detailed construction document estimates. The software integrates seamlessly with Sage's accounting and project management tools, enhancing workflow for construction firms.
Pros
- Extensive, regularly updated national cost database for precise pricing
- Seamless integration with Sage 300 and other ERP systems
- Highly customizable item libraries, assemblies, and reporting tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface
- High pricing suitable mainly for larger firms
- Limited native mobile support and modern UI elements
Best For
Mid-to-large construction contractors needing robust, database-driven estimating integrated with accounting software.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing; typically $4,000–$12,000+ annually per user, depending on modules and deployment (cloud or on-premise).
PlanSwift
specializedDigital takeoff software that accelerates quantity calculations and bid assemblies from plans.
Drag-and-drop Assemblies that bundle takeoffs with pre-defined formulas for materials, labor, and costs in seconds
PlanSwift is a desktop-based digital takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction bidding, enabling users to perform precise quantity takeoffs from PDF, CAD, and scanned plans using point-and-click tools. It features drag-and-drop assemblies to quickly apply costs, labor, and materials for generating accurate bids, with seamless Excel integration for custom reporting. Ideal for streamlining pre-construction workflows, it supports on-screen measurements for areas, lengths, volumes, and counts to reduce manual errors.
Pros
- Lightning-fast point-and-click takeoffs from digital plans
- Powerful drag-and-drop assemblies for rapid bid assembly
- Strong Excel integration and customizable databases
Cons
- Windows-only with no cloud or Mac support
- Steep learning curve for advanced assemblies and customization
- Limited native BIM/3D model integration
Best For
Construction estimators and contractors focused on 2D plan takeoffs and bidding who work primarily on Windows desktops.
Pricing
One-time perpetual license starting at $1,749 per user, plus optional annual maintenance (~20%) for updates and support.
ConEst IntelliBid
specializedIntegrated digital takeoff and estimating system for detailed electrical and construction bids.
Item Channel technology for dynamic, front-loaded assemblies that automatically update estimates from takeoffs
ConEst IntelliBid is a robust construction estimating and bidding software tailored for specialty contractors in electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and other trades. It integrates digital takeoff capabilities with advanced estimating tools, allowing users to measure plans accurately, build assemblies from a vast item database, and generate detailed bids with labor and material adjustments. The software supports bid day analysis and integrates with accounting systems for seamless project handoff.
Pros
- Highly accurate digital takeoff and measurement tools
- Extensive customizable item assemblies and database
- Strong bid management and reporting capabilities
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Outdated user interface compared to modern SaaS alternatives
- Limited cloud or mobile accessibility
Best For
Established specialty trade contractors who require precise, detailed estimating for complex bids.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at around $5,000 per user with annual maintenance fees of 20%; custom quotes required.
Bluebeam Revu
specializedPDF markup and takeoff tool supporting quantity extraction and bid documentation collaboration.
Dynamic quantity takeoff tools with visual chaining, area/perimeter calculations, and automated report generation from marked-up PDFs
Bluebeam Revu is a versatile PDF editing and markup software designed for the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry, offering digital takeoff, measurement, and annotation tools crucial for preparing construction bids from blueprints. It supports quantity calculations, customizable markups, and generates detailed reports for estimating quantities accurately. While excelling in document review and collaboration via Studio sessions, it lacks full-fledged bidding management like cost databases or bid submission workflows.
Pros
- Highly accurate digital takeoff and measurement tools for quantities
- Seamless real-time collaboration through Studio Sessions
- Customizable markups, stamps, and exportable reports for bid documentation
Cons
- No built-in cost estimating, assemblies, or pricing databases
- Subscription pricing adds up for larger teams
- Limited native bid management or subcontractor outreach features
Best For
Construction estimators and teams prioritizing precise PDF-based takeoffs and plan markups during the pre-bid phase.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions from $240/user (Basics) to $349/user (Complete); perpetual licenses start at $400 with optional maintenance.
Conclusion
Across the top 10 tools, Procore rises as the standout, integrating comprehensive bid management, subcontractor outreach, and preconstruction tools into a unified platform. While Procore leads, BuildingConnected streamlines subcontractor workflows effectively, and ConstructConnect provides valuable project intelligence, making each a strong option for different operational needs.
Take the next step in boosting your bidding efficiency—start with Procore to unlock its end-to-end capabilities, or explore BuildingConnected or ConstructConnect if their specialized strengths better fit your projects.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison