Quick Overview
- 1#1: Procore - Comprehensive construction management platform with AIA-compliant invoicing, progress billing, retainage, and lien waiver management.
- 2#2: Buildertrend - Cloud-based project management software featuring client-approved invoicing, change order billing, and integrated online payments.
- 3#3: Knowify - Construction management tool with automated progress invoicing, job costing, time tracking, and QuickBooks/Xero integrations.
- 4#4: Foundation - Construction accounting software providing job cost tracking, multi-phase billing, payroll integration, and customizable reports.
- 5#5: Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate - Full-featured ERP system for construction firms offering advanced job billing, accounts receivable, retainage, and AP automation.
- 6#6: QuickBooks Enterprise Contractor - Adaptable accounting solution for contractors with progress invoicing, job costing, and over 100 construction-specific reports.
- 7#7: Trimble Viewpoint - Construction ERP platform with integrated financials, project billing, subcontract management, and real-time job costing.
- 8#8: CMiC - Enterprise construction platform combining ERP, project controls, and invoicing with global multi-currency support.
- 9#9: Corecon - Cloud estimating and project management software with invoicing, document control, and accounting system synchronization.
- 10#10: Joist - Mobile-first invoicing app for trades with estimates, payments, time tracking, and QuickBooks integration for small contractors.
Tools were chosen based on depth of construction-specific features (including AIA compliance, retainage management, and progress billing), user-friendliness, integration capabilities, and overall value to support firms of varying sizes and project scales.
Comparison Table
Effective construction invoicing is key to maintaining cash flow and operational success, and this comparison table explores top tools like Procore, Buildertrend, Knowify, Foundation, Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate, and more. Readers will discover how these platforms differ in features such as automated billing, project integration, and reporting, helping them identify software that fits their specific needs and workflow. By outlining strengths and unique selling points of each tool, the table simplifies the process of selecting the ideal solution for streamlining invoicing tasks.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Procore Comprehensive construction management platform with AIA-compliant invoicing, progress billing, retainage, and lien waiver management. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.9/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Buildertrend Cloud-based project management software featuring client-approved invoicing, change order billing, and integrated online payments. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | Knowify Construction management tool with automated progress invoicing, job costing, time tracking, and QuickBooks/Xero integrations. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | Foundation Construction accounting software providing job cost tracking, multi-phase billing, payroll integration, and customizable reports. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 5 | Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate Full-featured ERP system for construction firms offering advanced job billing, accounts receivable, retainage, and AP automation. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 6.9/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 6 | QuickBooks Enterprise Contractor Adaptable accounting solution for contractors with progress invoicing, job costing, and over 100 construction-specific reports. | other | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.1/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 7 | Trimble Viewpoint Construction ERP platform with integrated financials, project billing, subcontract management, and real-time job costing. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 8 | CMiC Enterprise construction platform combining ERP, project controls, and invoicing with global multi-currency support. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 9 | Corecon Cloud estimating and project management software with invoicing, document control, and accounting system synchronization. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 10 | Joist Mobile-first invoicing app for trades with estimates, payments, time tracking, and QuickBooks integration for small contractors. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 7.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 8.6/10 |
Comprehensive construction management platform with AIA-compliant invoicing, progress billing, retainage, and lien waiver management.
Cloud-based project management software featuring client-approved invoicing, change order billing, and integrated online payments.
Construction management tool with automated progress invoicing, job costing, time tracking, and QuickBooks/Xero integrations.
Construction accounting software providing job cost tracking, multi-phase billing, payroll integration, and customizable reports.
Full-featured ERP system for construction firms offering advanced job billing, accounts receivable, retainage, and AP automation.
Adaptable accounting solution for contractors with progress invoicing, job costing, and over 100 construction-specific reports.
Construction ERP platform with integrated financials, project billing, subcontract management, and real-time job costing.
Enterprise construction platform combining ERP, project controls, and invoicing with global multi-currency support.
Cloud estimating and project management software with invoicing, document control, and accounting system synchronization.
Mobile-first invoicing app for trades with estimates, payments, time tracking, and QuickBooks integration for small contractors.
Procore
enterpriseComprehensive construction management platform with AIA-compliant invoicing, progress billing, retainage, and lien waiver management.
Fully integrated Prime Contract and Subcontract invoicing with automated workflows linking change orders, commitments, retainage, and lien waivers to project data in real-time.
Procore is a leading cloud-based construction management platform with robust invoicing tools designed specifically for the construction industry. It streamlines the invoicing process by integrating progress billing, AIA forms, retainage management, and lien waivers directly with project financials, commitments, and change orders. Users can create, submit, track, and approve invoices in real-time, ensuring accurate payments and compliance across general contractors, subs, and owners.
Pros
- Comprehensive integration with project management, financials, and documents for end-to-end invoicing workflows
- Advanced features like automated retainage, lien waivers, and AIA billing tailored to construction
- Real-time collaboration, mobile access, and reporting for field and office teams
- Seamless ERP integrations (e.g., QuickBooks, Sage) for streamlined accounting
Cons
- High cost with custom enterprise pricing that may overwhelm small firms
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features and customization options
- Occasional performance issues with large datasets or complex projects
Best For
Large general contractors and construction firms handling complex, multi-project portfolios needing integrated invoicing within full project management.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $500–$1,000/month for small teams, scaling with users, projects, and features (billed annually).
Buildertrend
specializedCloud-based project management software featuring client-approved invoicing, change order billing, and integrated online payments.
Integrated AIA progress billing and client portal for streamlined approvals and payments
Buildertrend is a comprehensive construction management platform that includes robust invoicing tools tailored for contractors and builders. It enables users to create customizable invoices, handle progress billing, AIA forms, retainage, and change orders, with seamless integration to QuickBooks and other accounting software. The software streamlines payment tracking, client approvals via a portal, and mobile invoicing for on-site efficiency.
Pros
- Advanced construction-specific invoicing like AIA billing and retainage management
- Seamless integrations with QuickBooks, Xero, and client portals for approvals
- Mobile app for real-time invoicing and payment updates from job sites
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to extensive features
- Higher pricing tiers required for advanced invoicing capabilities
- Occasional glitches in mobile app syncing reported by users
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms needing integrated invoicing within full project management workflows.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month (Solo plan) up to $399+/month (Unlimited), billed annually; invoicing included in most plans.
Knowify
specializedConstruction management tool with automated progress invoicing, job costing, time tracking, and QuickBooks/Xero integrations.
Automated progress invoicing directly from real-time job costs, expenses, and change orders
Knowify is a cloud-based construction management software tailored for contractors, emphasizing job costing, project tracking, and invoicing. It enables progress billing, AIA forms, change order management, and seamless integration with QuickBooks for accurate financials. The platform streamlines invoicing by pulling data directly from job costs, expenses, and time entries, making it efficient for construction-specific billing needs.
Pros
- Robust construction invoicing with AIA billing, retainage, and progress billing
- Deep QuickBooks integration for automated accounting sync
- Mobile app for on-site time tracking and approvals
Cons
- Higher pricing may not suit very small operations
- Steep initial learning curve for non-tech-savvy users
- Limited advanced reporting without add-ons
Best For
Small to mid-sized construction contractors focused on accurate job-cost-based invoicing and financial tracking.
Pricing
Starts at $149/month for basic plan (up to 5 users), $299/month for Pro, with Enterprise custom pricing.
Foundation
enterpriseConstruction accounting software providing job cost tracking, multi-phase billing, payroll integration, and customizable reports.
Advanced progress billing engine that automates AIA billing, retainage, and change order tracking with real-time job cost integration
Foundation by Foundation Software is a robust construction accounting platform designed specifically for contractors, offering advanced invoicing capabilities integrated with job costing, payroll, and project management. It supports progress billing, AIA forms, retainage management, change orders, and time & materials invoicing tailored to construction workflows. Ideal for streamlining financial operations in general contracting and specialty trades, it provides real-time job profitability insights alongside customizable invoicing.
Pros
- Comprehensive construction-specific invoicing including progress billing, retainage, and AIA compliance
- Seamless integration with job costing for accurate profitability tracking
- Highly customizable reports and multi-company support
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to depth of features
- Pricing can be high for smaller firms
- Mobile access is functional but not as polished as modern cloud-native apps
Best For
Mid-sized general contractors and subcontractors requiring integrated accounting and advanced job-based invoicing.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing; cloud version starts around $150/user/month with add-ons, desktop perpetual licenses from $10,000+ plus annual maintenance.
Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate
enterpriseFull-featured ERP system for construction firms offering advanced job billing, accounts receivable, retainage, and AP automation.
Automated AIA billing and lien waiver integration tied to job progress
Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate is a robust ERP platform tailored for construction and real estate firms, providing advanced invoicing tools like progress billing, AIA forms, retainage management, and change order processing. It integrates invoicing deeply with job costing, project management, and accounting to handle complex billing cycles from subcontractors to owners. While powerful for mid-to-large operations, it emphasizes full financial control over standalone invoicing simplicity.
Pros
- Construction-specific invoicing with AIA G702/G703 forms and retainage handling
- Seamless integration with job costing and AP/AR modules
- Customizable reports and multi-tier billing for complex contracts
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex setup for non-experts
- High cost unsuitable for small firms or simple invoicing needs
- Lengthy implementation requiring training and customization
Best For
Mid-sized to large construction firms managing complex projects with integrated ERP needs beyond basic invoicing.
Pricing
Quote-based; typically $10,000–$50,000+ annually depending on users, modules, and deployment (cloud or on-premise).
QuickBooks Enterprise Contractor
otherAdaptable accounting solution for contractors with progress invoicing, job costing, and over 100 construction-specific reports.
Native AIA billing forms with retainage and change order tracking
QuickBooks Enterprise Contractor is a robust accounting platform tailored for construction businesses, providing specialized invoicing tools like progress billing, job costing, and retainage management. It enables contractors to track costs per job, handle change orders, and generate AIA-compliant billing forms for accurate client invoicing. Integrated with QuickBooks' core financial features, it streamlines invoicing alongside payroll, inventory, and reporting for comprehensive project oversight.
Pros
- Advanced progress invoicing and job costing tailored for construction projects
- AIA G702/G703 form support for standardized billing
- Seamless integration with payroll, inventory, and QuickBooks ecosystem
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-accountants
- High pricing that may overwhelm small contractors
- Limited native mobile app features for on-site invoicing
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms requiring integrated accounting and detailed project-based invoicing.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at ~$1,919 for Silver (1 user), up to $4,668+ for Diamond Contractor edition with advanced features and multi-user support.
Trimble Viewpoint
enterpriseConstruction ERP platform with integrated financials, project billing, subcontract management, and real-time job costing.
Automated progress billing engine with native AIA G702/G703 support and multi-tier retainage management
Trimble Viewpoint is a comprehensive ERP platform for construction firms, with robust invoicing capabilities focused on progress billing, AIA forms, retainage management, and subcontractor payments. It integrates seamlessly with job costing, project management, and accounting modules to streamline financial workflows in the construction industry. Designed for mid-to-large contractors, it ensures compliance with industry standards and provides real-time visibility into cash flow and billing status.
Pros
- Deep construction-specific invoicing including AIA billing and retainage handling
- Strong integration with job costing and ERP for accurate, automated billing
- Advanced reporting and compliance tools for complex projects
Cons
- Steep learning curve and requires extensive training
- High implementation costs and time
- Less intuitive interface compared to modern cloud-native tools
Best For
Mid-to-large construction contractors needing integrated ERP with sophisticated invoicing for multi-project operations.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing; typically $100-$300 per user/month with annual contracts starting at $50,000+ for full implementations.
CMiC
enterpriseEnterprise construction platform combining ERP, project controls, and invoicing with global multi-currency support.
Real-time synchronization of job costs, contracts, and change orders directly into automated progress invoicing and AIA billing
CMiC is a comprehensive enterprise resource planning (ERP) platform designed specifically for construction companies, with robust invoicing features integrated into its financial management suite. It excels in handling complex construction billing processes such as AIA forms, progress billing, retainage, change orders, and compliance reporting. The software provides real-time visibility into project costs and revenues, streamlining invoice generation and approvals across large-scale operations.
Pros
- Deep integration of invoicing with project management and job costing for accurate billing
- Supports advanced construction-specific features like AIA billing, retainage, and multi-tier approvals
- Strong customization and reporting tools for compliance and financial analysis
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface for new users
- High implementation costs and time requirements
- Pricing is expensive, geared toward enterprise-level users
Best For
Large construction firms and general contractors needing fully integrated ERP invoicing for complex, multi-project environments.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $50,000+ annually for mid-sized deployments, scaling with modules, users, and customization.
Corecon
specializedCloud estimating and project management software with invoicing, document control, and accounting system synchronization.
Automated progress billing linked to real-time job cost data and approved change orders
Corecon is a cloud-based construction management platform that specializes in invoicing, estimating, job costing, and project tracking tailored for contractors and subcontractors. It handles complex construction billing needs like progress invoicing, AIA forms, retainage management, and change order tracking. The software integrates with popular accounting tools such as QuickBooks and Sage, enabling seamless data flow from field to finance.
Pros
- Robust construction-specific invoicing with AIA G702/703 support and retainage handling
- Integrated job costing and estimating that feeds directly into billing
- Customizable reports and dashboards for billing insights
Cons
- Dated user interface with a moderate learning curve
- Pricing can be steep for small teams or solo contractors
- Mobile app lacks full invoicing functionality compared to desktop
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms and subcontractors requiring integrated project management and specialized invoicing workflows.
Pricing
Starts at $499/month for up to 5 users (Pro plan); scales to $999+/month for Enterprise with unlimited users and advanced features; custom quotes available.
Joist
specializedMobile-first invoicing app for trades with estimates, payments, time tracking, and QuickBooks integration for small contractors.
One-tap invoice generation and payment collection directly from the job site
Joist is a mobile-first invoicing and payment app tailored for contractors, landscapers, and small construction businesses, enabling quick creation of estimates, invoices, and job sheets directly from smartphones or tablets. It supports on-site payment collection via credit/debit cards, ACH, and integrates with QuickBooks for seamless accounting. Ideal for fieldwork, it tracks job progress and automates follow-ups to speed up cash flow.
Pros
- Exceptionally user-friendly mobile interface for on-the-go invoicing
- Free plan with core features including unlimited invoices
- Fast payment processing with low transaction fees
Cons
- Limited advanced construction tools like scheduling or material takeoff
- Reporting and analytics are basic compared to enterprise solutions
- Fewer integrations beyond QuickBooks
Best For
Small contractors and solo tradespeople needing simple, mobile invoicing and instant payments without complex project management.
Pricing
Free plan for basics; Solo plan at $9.99/month; Pro/Team plans from $24.99/month per user, plus 2.9% + $0.30 per transaction.
Conclusion
Among the top tools, Procore leads as the best choice, offering a comprehensive platform with AIA-compliant invoicing, progress billing, and lien waiver management, ideal for end-to-end construction needs. Close behind, Buildertrend shines with client-approved invoicing, change order tracking, and integrated payments, perfect for collaborative workflows. Knowify, third in line, impresses with automated progress invoicing, job costing, and QuickBooks/Xero integrations, catering to efficiency-focused teams. All three deliver standout value, with Procore emerging as a versatile, industry-recommended leader.
Start by exploring Procore—its tailored features for construction invoicing and management can elevate your workflow, streamline billing processes, and simplify compliance. Whether you’re handling large projects or small teams, Procore’s robust tools make it a top pick to transform how you run your business.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison