Quick Overview
- 1#1: AGTEK - Provides comprehensive 3D graphical takeoff, GPS earthmoving modeling, and production control for accurate earthwork estimation.
- 2#2: Carlson Takeoff - Delivers advanced digital takeoff and earthwork volume calculations from CAD, PDF, and point cloud data for construction estimating.
- 3#3: MudShark - Automates precise cut and fill volume calculations directly from PDF plans and drawings for earthwork takeoff.
- 4#4: Kubla Cubed - Enables fast and intuitive earthworks cut/fill analysis and reporting from imported surfaces and plans.
- 5#5: Trimble Business Center - Offers powerful surveying and earthwork computation tools for volume calculations and machine control integration.
- 6#6: Autodesk Civil 3D - Provides civil engineering design software with integrated earthwork analysis, grading, and quantity takeoff features.
- 7#7: InSite Elevation Pro - Specializes in 2D and 3D earthwork takeoff for cut/fill volumes from plans, PDFs, and CAD files.
- 8#8: HCSS HeavyBid - Construction bidding platform with built-in earthwork estimating, takeoff, and cost analysis modules.
- 9#9: CSDS Earthwork - Dedicated earthwork estimating software for volume calculations, reporting, and bid preparation in civil projects.
- 10#10: Sitework 4D - Supports detailed earthwork cost estimating, takeoff, and production planning for heavy civil construction.
We ranked these tools based on performance (cut/fill accuracy, data source compatibility), user-friendliness, and value, prioritizing software that streamlines workflows, integrates seamlessly with existing processes, and delivers actionable insights for civil and heavy construction professionals.
Comparison Table
This comparison table examines key features, usability, and industry-specific strengths of popular earthwork estimating software, including AGTEK, Carlson Takeoff, MudShark, Kubla Cubed, Trimble Business Center, and more. It helps readers identify tools aligned with their project needs, from precision modeling to seamless integration with existing workflows.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | AGTEK Provides comprehensive 3D graphical takeoff, GPS earthmoving modeling, and production control for accurate earthwork estimation. | specialized | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Carlson Takeoff Delivers advanced digital takeoff and earthwork volume calculations from CAD, PDF, and point cloud data for construction estimating. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | MudShark Automates precise cut and fill volume calculations directly from PDF plans and drawings for earthwork takeoff. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 4 | Kubla Cubed Enables fast and intuitive earthworks cut/fill analysis and reporting from imported surfaces and plans. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 5 | Trimble Business Center Offers powerful surveying and earthwork computation tools for volume calculations and machine control integration. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 6 | Autodesk Civil 3D Provides civil engineering design software with integrated earthwork analysis, grading, and quantity takeoff features. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.4/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 7 | InSite Elevation Pro Specializes in 2D and 3D earthwork takeoff for cut/fill volumes from plans, PDFs, and CAD files. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | HCSS HeavyBid Construction bidding platform with built-in earthwork estimating, takeoff, and cost analysis modules. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 9 | CSDS Earthwork Dedicated earthwork estimating software for volume calculations, reporting, and bid preparation in civil projects. | specialized | 7.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.5/10 | 7.3/10 |
| 10 | Sitework 4D Supports detailed earthwork cost estimating, takeoff, and production planning for heavy civil construction. | specialized | 7.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 6.5/10 | 7.0/10 |
Provides comprehensive 3D graphical takeoff, GPS earthmoving modeling, and production control for accurate earthwork estimation.
Delivers advanced digital takeoff and earthwork volume calculations from CAD, PDF, and point cloud data for construction estimating.
Automates precise cut and fill volume calculations directly from PDF plans and drawings for earthwork takeoff.
Enables fast and intuitive earthworks cut/fill analysis and reporting from imported surfaces and plans.
Offers powerful surveying and earthwork computation tools for volume calculations and machine control integration.
Provides civil engineering design software with integrated earthwork analysis, grading, and quantity takeoff features.
Specializes in 2D and 3D earthwork takeoff for cut/fill volumes from plans, PDFs, and CAD files.
Construction bidding platform with built-in earthwork estimating, takeoff, and cost analysis modules.
Dedicated earthwork estimating software for volume calculations, reporting, and bid preparation in civil projects.
Supports detailed earthwork cost estimating, takeoff, and production planning for heavy civil construction.
AGTEK
specializedProvides comprehensive 3D graphical takeoff, GPS earthmoving modeling, and production control for accurate earthwork estimation.
Real-time dynamic cut/fill analysis with automatic updates across multi-surface models and design changes
AGTEK is a leading earthwork estimating software suite tailored for construction professionals in sitework, excavation, grading, and heavy civil projects. It provides powerful 3D takeoff tools for accurate cut/fill volume calculations, progress tracking, and production reporting directly from CAD models, PDFs, and survey data. The software bridges office estimating with field operations through seamless integration with GPS machine control systems, total stations, and drones, enabling real-time data exchange and stakeout guidance.
Pros
- Exceptional accuracy in 3D volume computations and dynamic surface modeling
- Robust field integration with GPS machine control and surveying hardware
- Comprehensive reporting for bids, progress tracking, and production analysis
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training for full proficiency
- High upfront and ongoing costs unsuitable for small operations
- Primarily Windows-based with limited native mobile or cloud features
Best For
Large earthwork contractors and civil engineering firms handling complex, data-intensive site development projects that demand precision from design to field execution.
Pricing
Modular licensing starts at around $15,000-$25,000 per seat for core modules like Sitework 4D, plus annual maintenance (15-20%) and optional add-ons; custom quotes required.
Carlson Takeoff
specializedDelivers advanced digital takeoff and earthwork volume calculations from CAD, PDF, and point cloud data for construction estimating.
Dynamic 3D surface modeling with interactive strata volumes and phase balancing
Carlson Takeoff is a robust earthwork estimating software designed for civil engineers and contractors, enabling precise quantity takeoffs from 2D plans and 3D models. It excels in calculating cut/fill volumes, strata analysis, and sitework quantities with support for dynamic surface modeling and integration with CAD formats like DWG and DGN. The software generates detailed reports for bidding and project management, making it a comprehensive tool for heavy construction estimation.
Pros
- Advanced 3D earthwork volume calculations with strata and phase support
- Seamless integration with AutoCAD, MicroStation, and Carlson's suite
- Comprehensive reporting and bid item takeoff tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to dense interface
- Primarily Windows-only with limited cloud collaboration
- Higher upfront cost compared to some cloud-based alternatives
Best For
Experienced civil estimators and earthwork contractors managing complex site development projects.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at $4,995 with optional annual maintenance (~20%); subscription options from $1,995/year.
MudShark
specializedAutomates precise cut and fill volume calculations directly from PDF plans and drawings for earthwork takeoff.
Automated PDF plan takeoff with intelligent surface generation for rapid earthwork quantity extraction
MudShark is a powerful earthwork estimating software tailored for construction professionals, enabling precise cut and fill volume calculations from PDF plans, CAD files, drone data, and surveyed points. It automates surface generation, mass haul analysis, and detailed reporting to streamline bid preparation and project planning. The tool excels in handling complex terrain models and provides customizable outputs for earthmoving operations.
Pros
- Highly accurate volume calculations with support for multiple file formats including PDFs and LiDAR
- Advanced mass haul and optimization tools for cost-efficient earthmoving
- Comprehensive reporting and strata analysis for detailed project insights
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to dense feature set
- Interface feels somewhat dated compared to modern competitors
- Pricing can be prohibitive for small firms without scalable options
Best For
Mid-sized earthwork contractors and civil engineers managing complex site development projects with large datasets.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at approximately $4,995 AUD for the base version, with modular add-ons and annual maintenance fees around 20% of license cost.
Kubla Cubed
specializedEnables fast and intuitive earthworks cut/fill analysis and reporting from imported surfaces and plans.
Rapid Cut/Fill engine that computes volumes from basic 2D contours in seconds
Kubla Cubed is a dedicated earthworks estimating software designed for civil engineers and contractors to perform rapid cut and fill volume calculations from 2D drawings or surveys. It supports imports from DWG, DXF, PDF, and LandXML formats, enabling users to define boundaries, levels, and slopes with minimal input for accurate quantity takeoffs. The tool excels in generating mass haul diagrams, earthwork summaries, and exportable reports for bidding and project planning.
Pros
- Lightning-fast processing of large sites with simple boundary definitions
- Broad file import compatibility including CAD and PDF
- Clear visualizations like 3D models and haul diagrams
Cons
- Limited advanced BIM or 3D modeling integration
- Windows-only platform with no cloud or mobile access
- Reporting customization could be more robust
Best For
Civil engineering firms and estimators handling mid-sized site development projects that prioritize speed over enterprise-level integrations.
Pricing
One-time license starting at $1,495 for Kubla Cubed Pro; free trial available.
Trimble Business Center
enterpriseOffers powerful surveying and earthwork computation tools for volume calculations and machine control integration.
Direct import and processing of raw Trimble field data into precise DTMs and earthwork volumes without intermediate conversions
Trimble Business Center is a comprehensive office software suite for surveyors, civil engineers, and contractors, specializing in processing field data from GNSS, total stations, and levels. It excels in creating digital terrain models (DTMs), performing precise cut/fill volume calculations, and generating earthwork reports essential for takeoff and estimating. The software supports full project workflows, including COGO, corridor modeling, and integration with Trimble's hardware ecosystem for seamless data flow.
Pros
- Powerful surface modeling and multi-method volume computation for accurate earthwork takeoffs
- Deep integration with Trimble hardware, field software, and machine control systems
- Advanced 3D visualization and reporting tools for detailed earthwork analysis
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface and extensive feature set
- High upfront and ongoing costs compared to simpler estimating tools
- Less emphasis on automated bid generation and cost estimating workflows
Best For
Surveyors and civil engineering firms deeply embedded in the Trimble ecosystem needing robust survey processing alongside earthwork volume calculations.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at ~$5,000-$8,000 depending on modules, plus ~20% annual maintenance; subscription tiers from $1,500/year.
Autodesk Civil 3D
enterpriseProvides civil engineering design software with integrated earthwork analysis, grading, and quantity takeoff features.
Dynamic bounded volumes and earthwork schedules that automatically update with design model changes
Autodesk Civil 3D is a powerful civil engineering design and documentation software with integrated earthwork estimating tools for calculating cut/fill volumes, generating mass haul diagrams, and producing detailed quantity takeoffs from 3D surface models. It excels in modeling terrain, alignments, and corridors to automate earthwork computations within a BIM workflow. While not a standalone estimating tool, it provides precise volume analysis tied directly to design changes for efficient project documentation.
Pros
- Highly accurate volume calculations with dynamic updates from surface models
- Seamless integration with Autodesk ecosystem for full civil design workflows
- Customizable earthwork reports, schedules, and mass haul analysis
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface and extensive features
- High cost may not justify use for earthwork-only tasks
- Resource-intensive, requiring powerful hardware for large projects
Best For
Civil engineers and design firms needing integrated earthwork estimating within comprehensive infrastructure design projects.
Pricing
Annual subscription ~$2,430 standalone or included in AEC Collection (~$3,110/year); volume licensing available.
InSite Elevation Pro
specializedSpecializes in 2D and 3D earthwork takeoff for cut/fill volumes from plans, PDFs, and CAD files.
Blazing-fast automated contour digitizing and mass haul optimization that handles massive datasets in under a minute
InSite Elevation Pro is a desktop earthwork estimating software designed for rapid takeoff and volume calculations from 2D plans, PDFs, images, and CAD files. It excels in generating accurate cut/fill volumes, elevation models, and detailed reports for sitework bidding and estimation. Users can digitize contours, create surfaces, and optimize earthmoving quantities efficiently, making it a solid choice for construction estimators focused on traditional workflows.
Pros
- Extremely fast digitizing and calculation speeds for large sites
- Robust cut/fill volume reporting with customizable templates
- Seamless import of PDFs, DWGs, and scanned plans
Cons
- Limited 3D visualization and modeling compared to competitors
- No native cloud or mobile support for collaboration
- Steep initial learning curve for advanced surface editing
Best For
Earthwork estimators and civil contractors in small to mid-sized firms who prioritize speed in 2D takeoffs over advanced 3D BIM integration.
Pricing
Perpetual license around $4,995 with optional annual maintenance (~20% of license cost); volume discounts available.
HCSS HeavyBid
enterpriseConstruction bidding platform with built-in earthwork estimating, takeoff, and cost analysis modules.
Advanced phase-based estimating with dynamic production rates and bid leveling for precise earthwork cost analysis
HCSS HeavyBid is a comprehensive estimating software tailored for heavy construction, including earthwork, highway, and utility projects. It supports detailed digital takeoffs, volume calculations for cut/fill, haul optimization, and bid preparation with real-time cost updates. The platform integrates earthwork-specific tools like cross-section analysis and production rate libraries to help contractors generate accurate, competitive bids.
Pros
- Extensive earthwork takeoff tools with cut/fill balancing and mass haul diagrams
- Seamless integration with HCSS job costing (HeavyJob) for end-to-end project management
- Robust bid item database and subcontractor comparison features
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training
- High upfront costs and customization fees
- Primarily desktop-based with limited mobile accessibility
Best For
Large heavy civil contractors handling complex earthwork bids on infrastructure projects.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing, typically $10,000–$25,000+ per user annually, including modules and support.
CSDS Earthwork
specializedDedicated earthwork estimating software for volume calculations, reporting, and bid preparation in civil projects.
Advanced Mass Haul Diagram for optimizing cut-to-fill material transport and minimizing haul costs
CSDS Earthwork is a specialized desktop software for earthwork takeoff and estimating, enabling precise cut/fill volume calculations from PDF, CAD, and GIS files. It generates detailed reports including mass haul diagrams, truckload summaries, and production rates for construction bidding. The tool excels in handling complex site models with elevation grids and cross-sections for accurate material balance.
Pros
- Exceptionally accurate volume calculations and mass haul optimization
- Robust support for multiple file formats including PDFs and CAD
- Comprehensive reporting with Excel/Word integration
Cons
- Dated user interface requiring a learning curve
- Limited mobile or cloud-based collaboration options
- Higher upfront cost without free tier
Best For
Civil engineering firms and estimators handling large-scale earthmoving projects needing precise haul planning and volume analysis.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at $2,995 per seat with optional annual maintenance around $600.
Sitework 4D
specializedSupports detailed earthwork cost estimating, takeoff, and production planning for heavy civil construction.
Advanced mass haul optimization that simulates truck routes and balances earth movement efficiently
Sitework 4D from RKM Inc. is a dedicated earthwork estimating software designed for calculating cut and fill volumes from 3D terrain models and survey data. It imports files in formats like LandXML, DXF, and DEM, performs precise mass haul analysis, and generates comprehensive reports including truckloads and costs. Primarily used for site grading, excavation, and civil construction projects, it emphasizes accuracy in volume computations over modern collaborative features.
Pros
- Highly accurate cut/fill volume calculations from TIN surfaces
- Detailed reporting for bids including truckload optimization
- Strong compatibility with CAD and survey file formats
Cons
- Outdated user interface feels clunky compared to modern tools
- Steep learning curve for new users without training
- Lacks cloud collaboration and mobile accessibility
Best For
Experienced earthwork estimators and civil contractors focused on precise volume takeoffs from desktop CAD data.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at approximately $2,995 for base version; volume discounts and modules available upon request.
Conclusion
The top earthwork estimating tools present unique capabilities, but AGTEK leads as the top choice, excelling with comprehensive 3D graphical takeoff and GPS integration for precise estimations. Carlson Takeoff and MudShark are strong alternatives, offering advanced digital takeoff and PDF automation respectively, catering to different project needs. Together, these tools highlight the evolution of efficiency in earthwork planning, ensuring accuracy and clarity in every stage.
Take the first step toward streamlined estimating—try AGTEK's robust features to enhance your project's precision and success.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison