Quick Overview
- 1#1: AGTEK - Industry-leading earthwork takeoff, 3D modeling, and GPS machine control software for construction projects.
- 2#2: Kubla Cubed - Fast and accurate cut/fill volume calculations and earthworks estimation from 2D drawings and surfaces.
- 3#3: MudShark - Comprehensive earthworks design and takeoff software with 3D visualization and mass haul optimization.
- 4#4: InSite Elevation Pro - Cloud-based earthwork takeoff and volume reporting tool for quick quantity extraction from PDFs and CAD.
- 5#5: Carlson Takeoff - Heavy construction takeoff suite with robust earthwork volume computation and bid item generation.
- 6#6: Autodesk Civil 3D - Advanced civil design platform featuring earthwork analysis, grading, and cut/fill balance tools.
- 7#7: Trimble Business Center - Survey and construction office software with earthwork modeling, volume calculations, and data integration.
- 8#8: Bentley OpenRoads Designer - Infrastructure design software offering earthwork optimization, terrain modeling, and quantity takeoff.
- 9#9: HCSS EarthWorks - Mobile-first earthwork takeoff and production tracking app integrated with construction management.
- 10#10: Softree Optimal - Road and corridor design tool with automated earthwork balancing and cost estimation features.
These tools were selected based on key factors including cutting-edge features, user-friendly design, computational accuracy, and long-term value, ensuring they deliver optimal performance across diverse construction scenarios.
Comparison Table
Earthwork software is essential for optimizing grading, volume analysis, and project management in construction. This comparison table explore key tools like AGTEK, Kubla Cubed, MudShark, InSite Elevation Pro, Carlson Takeoff, and more, highlighting their unique features to guide readers toward the right solution for their workflow needs. By examining usability, functionality, and industry suitability, users can streamline their processes and enhance project precision.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | AGTEK Industry-leading earthwork takeoff, 3D modeling, and GPS machine control software for construction projects. | specialized | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 2 | Kubla Cubed Fast and accurate cut/fill volume calculations and earthworks estimation from 2D drawings and surfaces. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.3/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 3 | MudShark Comprehensive earthworks design and takeoff software with 3D visualization and mass haul optimization. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | InSite Elevation Pro Cloud-based earthwork takeoff and volume reporting tool for quick quantity extraction from PDFs and CAD. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 5 | Carlson Takeoff Heavy construction takeoff suite with robust earthwork volume computation and bid item generation. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Autodesk Civil 3D Advanced civil design platform featuring earthwork analysis, grading, and cut/fill balance tools. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 7 | Trimble Business Center Survey and construction office software with earthwork modeling, volume calculations, and data integration. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 8 | Bentley OpenRoads Designer Infrastructure design software offering earthwork optimization, terrain modeling, and quantity takeoff. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.3/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 9 | HCSS EarthWorks Mobile-first earthwork takeoff and production tracking app integrated with construction management. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 10 | Softree Optimal Road and corridor design tool with automated earthwork balancing and cost estimation features. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.4/10 |
Industry-leading earthwork takeoff, 3D modeling, and GPS machine control software for construction projects.
Fast and accurate cut/fill volume calculations and earthworks estimation from 2D drawings and surfaces.
Comprehensive earthworks design and takeoff software with 3D visualization and mass haul optimization.
Cloud-based earthwork takeoff and volume reporting tool for quick quantity extraction from PDFs and CAD.
Heavy construction takeoff suite with robust earthwork volume computation and bid item generation.
Advanced civil design platform featuring earthwork analysis, grading, and cut/fill balance tools.
Survey and construction office software with earthwork modeling, volume calculations, and data integration.
Infrastructure design software offering earthwork optimization, terrain modeling, and quantity takeoff.
Mobile-first earthwork takeoff and production tracking app integrated with construction management.
Road and corridor design tool with automated earthwork balancing and cost estimation features.
AGTEK
specializedIndustry-leading earthwork takeoff, 3D modeling, and GPS machine control software for construction projects.
ZoneMaster GPS guidance for real-time machine control and earthwork optimization directly from office models
AGTEK is a leading earthwork software suite tailored for civil construction, providing advanced 3D modeling, quantity takeoff, cut/fill analysis, and GPS machine control integration. It streamlines sitework processes from design to field execution, enabling precise volume calculations, progress tracking, and data transfer to heavy equipment. Used extensively in heavy highway, site development, and large-scale earthmoving projects, it optimizes material movement and reduces costs through accurate earthwork balancing.
Pros
- Exceptionally accurate 3D earthwork modeling and volume computations
- Seamless integration with GPS machine control systems like Trimble and Topcon
- Comprehensive progress tracking and reporting for large projects
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training
- High upfront and ongoing costs
- Less intuitive interface compared to modern cloud-based alternatives
Best For
Large civil construction firms managing complex earthwork projects that demand precise quantity takeoff and machine guidance integration.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing; typically $10,000+ annually per license depending on modules, with perpetual options available.
Kubla Cubed
specializedFast and accurate cut/fill volume calculations and earthworks estimation from 2D drawings and surfaces.
String-based surface modeling that enables precise control over complex terrains and boundaries with minimal data input for superior speed and accuracy.
Kubla Cubed is a dedicated earthworks software solution for cut and fill volume calculations, site balancing, and mass haul analysis. It excels at importing survey data from formats like DWG, DXF, LandXML, and CSV points to build string-based surface models quickly. Users can generate detailed reports, optimize earthmoving, and export results for further design work, making it a streamlined tool for earthwork takeoffs without full civil engineering suites.
Pros
- Intuitive string-based modeling for rapid surface creation and accurate volumes
- Fast processing and comprehensive cut/fill reporting including mass haul diagrams
- Broad import/export compatibility with CAD and survey formats
Cons
- Limited advanced 3D visualization and rendering capabilities
- Lacks integrated tools for road, drainage, or full site design
- Windows-only platform with no native Mac or cloud version
Best For
Earthworks contractors and estimators needing quick, precise volume takeoffs from survey data without complex CAD workflows.
Pricing
Annual Pro subscription ~$1,000-$1,200; perpetual license ~$2,500; free Explorer version for basic use.
MudShark
specializedComprehensive earthworks design and takeoff software with 3D visualization and mass haul optimization.
One-click auto-generation of intelligent 3D surfaces and contours directly from PDF linework
MudShark is a desktop-based earthwork takeoff and estimation software tailored for construction professionals managing excavation, grading, and sitework projects. It excels at importing PDF plans, automatically generating 3D surfaces and contours from linework, and performing precise cut/fill volume calculations with mass haul diagrams. The tool also integrates with Excel for customizable reporting, aiding in accurate bid preparation and project analysis.
Pros
- Lightning-fast PDF import and auto-digitizing for quick takeoffs
- Powerful 3D surface modeling and accurate volume/mass haul calculations
- Robust reporting and Excel integration for professional bids
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-expert users
- Windows-only compatibility limits accessibility
- Upfront cost may deter very small operations
Best For
Mid-sized earthwork contractors and estimators requiring precise, high-volume cut/fill analysis from PDF plans.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at $2,995; includes one year of support, with annual maintenance ~20%.
InSite Elevation Pro
specializedCloud-based earthwork takeoff and volume reporting tool for quick quantity extraction from PDFs and CAD.
Phase-based earthwork tracking with dynamic mass haul optimization
InSite Elevation Pro is a specialized earthwork software designed for precise cut and fill volume calculations, terrain modeling, and site grading analysis. It excels in importing CAD files, generating 3D surfaces, and producing detailed reports for construction takeoff and estimation. The tool supports phase-based earthwork management, making it suitable for complex site development projects.
Pros
- Highly accurate volume calculations with sub-surface support
- Fast 3D surface generation and visualization
- Robust phase and mass haul diagramming
Cons
- Limited native integrations with popular BIM platforms
- Interface can feel dated compared to modern competitors
- Pricing may be steep for small firms
Best For
Mid-sized civil engineering firms and earthwork contractors handling detailed site grading and volume takeoffs on commercial projects.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at $495/month per user, with annual discounts and custom enterprise pricing available.
Carlson Takeoff
specializedHeavy construction takeoff suite with robust earthwork volume computation and bid item generation.
3D Haul Module with truck path optimization and mass haul diagrams for efficient material movement planning
Carlson Takeoff is a robust earthwork takeoff and estimation software tailored for civil construction professionals, enabling precise digital takeoffs from 2D plans including PDFs, CAD files, and scans. It excels in 3D volume computations for cut/fill, hauling optimization, and sitework quantities, supporting complex earthwork modeling with dynamic surfaces and pit/pond volumes. The tool integrates seamlessly with Carlson's surveying and design suite, providing detailed reports for accurate bidding and project tracking.
Pros
- Highly accurate 3D earthwork volume calculations with dynamic surface modeling
- Broad file format support including PDF and DWG for flexible plan imports
- Comprehensive reporting tools for bid preparation and quantity breakdowns
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to dense interface and advanced features
- Performance demands on hardware for large-scale projects
- Limited native mobile or cloud collaboration options
Best For
Experienced civil estimators and contractors managing complex earthwork projects that require precise 3D modeling and integration with surveying data.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at around $3,500; annual maintenance ~$800; subscription plans available from $1,200/year.
Autodesk Civil 3D
enterpriseAdvanced civil design platform featuring earthwork analysis, grading, and cut/fill balance tools.
Grading Optimization module for automated, criteria-based earthwork design and analysis
Autodesk Civil 3D is a robust civil engineering design platform specializing in earthwork modeling, surface creation, and volume calculations for site development and infrastructure projects. It enables precise cut/fill analysis, grading optimization, and earthwork takeoffs through dynamic 3D surfaces linked to design elements like corridors and parcels. Integrated with AutoCAD and BIM workflows, it supports collaborative civil projects from concept to construction documentation.
Pros
- Powerful earthwork tools for accurate volume computations and cut/fill balancing
- Dynamic surface modeling with real-time updates to design changes
- Seamless integration with Autodesk ecosystem for BIM and collaboration
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface and workflows
- High subscription pricing limits accessibility for small firms
- Resource-intensive, requiring high-end hardware for large models
Best For
Experienced civil engineers and firms managing complex infrastructure and site grading projects requiring BIM integration.
Pricing
Annual subscription ~$2,500 USD for standalone; included in AEC Collection ~$3,000/year.
Trimble Business Center
enterpriseSurvey and construction office software with earthwork modeling, volume calculations, and data integration.
Dynamic multi-surface cut/fill analysis with phased earthwork volumes and lift optimization
Trimble Business Center (TBC) is a robust office software suite designed for surveyors, civil engineers, and earthwork contractors, specializing in processing geospatial data from Trimble instruments to perform precise earthwork takeoffs, volume calculations, and cut/fill analysis. It supports 3D surface modeling, corridor design, and production staking, enabling detailed site planning and progress reporting for large-scale earthmoving projects. The software excels in integrating field-collected data with CAD and BIM workflows for accurate quantity management.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Trimble GNSS, total stations, and field software
- Advanced earthwork tools including phased volumes, lift analysis, and dynamic cut/fill
- Comprehensive reporting and collaboration features for project teams
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training
- High upfront and maintenance costs
- Resource-heavy, demanding powerful hardware for large datasets
Best For
Experienced surveyors and civil contractors using Trimble hardware who handle complex earthwork projects requiring precise volume computations and 3D modeling.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at ~$6,000-$12,000 depending on modules, plus annual maintenance (~20%); subscription options from $250/month.
Bentley OpenRoads Designer
enterpriseInfrastructure design software offering earthwork optimization, terrain modeling, and quantity takeoff.
Dynamic parametric corridor modeling that automatically recalculates and optimizes earthwork volumes in real-time
Bentley OpenRoads Designer is a powerful civil engineering software suite focused on infrastructure design, particularly excelling in roadway, site, and earthwork modeling. It enables precise 3D terrain creation, cut/fill volume calculations, mass haul optimization, and earthwork balancing for large-scale projects. Integrated with MicroStation for BIM workflows, it supports collaborative design, analysis, and visualization of earthmoving operations.
Pros
- Advanced parametric terrain and corridor modeling for accurate earthwork volumes
- Robust integration with Bentley ecosystem for seamless project delivery
- Comprehensive tools for mass haul analysis and optimization
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface and MicroStation base
- High subscription costs prohibitive for small firms
- Resource-heavy, demanding high-end hardware for large models
Best For
Large civil engineering firms handling complex infrastructure projects with integrated earthwork and design needs.
Pricing
Annual subscription via Bentley SELECT, approximately $5,000-$7,000 per user, with enterprise licensing and volume discounts available.
HCSS EarthWorks
enterpriseMobile-first earthwork takeoff and production tracking app integrated with construction management.
LiveLink telematics system for real-time GPS tracking of trucks and dozers with automated production dashboards
HCSS EarthWorks is a comprehensive earthwork management software tailored for heavy construction projects, offering digital takeoff, estimating, production tracking, and bidding capabilities. It excels in handling complex cut/fill calculations, truck fleet management, and real-time progress reporting through integration with GPS machine control and telematics devices. Designed for large-scale dirt-moving operations, it helps contractors optimize material movement, reduce overruns, and improve profitability.
Pros
- Robust GPS and telematics integration for real-time truckload and production tracking
- Advanced 3D modeling and volume calculation accuracy
- Seamless integration with HCSS suite (HeavyBid, HeavyJob) for end-to-end workflows
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface for new users
- High cost with custom quote-based pricing
- Full capabilities require compatible hardware and subscriptions
Best For
Large heavy construction firms managing extensive earthmoving projects with GPS-equipped fleets.
Pricing
Quote-based annual subscriptions starting at around $5,000-$10,000+, scaling with users, modules, and telematics integration.
Softree Optimal
specializedRoad and corridor design tool with automated earthwork balancing and cost estimation features.
Genetic algorithm-driven automatic alignment optimization that dynamically balances cut/fill to achieve lowest-cost designs
Softree Optimal is a specialized earthwork optimization software designed for road, highway, and pipeline corridor projects, using advanced algorithms to automatically generate cost-effective vertical and horizontal alignments. It excels in balancing cut and fill volumes to minimize earthwork costs, providing detailed mass haul analysis, volume reports, and integration with CAD platforms like AutoCAD and Civil 3D. The tool supports survey data import, cross-section generation, and customizable design constraints for precise earthwork modeling.
Pros
- Powerful genetic algorithm optimization for minimizing earthwork volumes and costs
- Seamless integration with major CAD software for efficient workflows
- Detailed mass haul diagrams, cross-sections, and reporting tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-expert users
- Primarily focused on linear corridor designs, less versatile for general earthworks
- Interface feels somewhat dated compared to modern competitors
Best For
Civil engineers and road designers optimizing earthwork for linear infrastructure projects like highways and pipelines.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses starting around $5,000 USD with annual maintenance fees; volume discounts and quotes available.
Conclusion
The top earthwork software of [current period] showcase exceptional tools, with AGTEK leading as the top choice for its comprehensive takeoff, 3D modeling, and GPS integration. Kubla Cubed follows with fast, accurate calculations from 2D data, while MudShark stands out for advanced 3D visualization and mass haul optimization, offering strong alternatives for specific workflows. Together, these tools redefine efficiency in construction earthwork projects.
To start optimizing your earthwork processes, begin with AGTEK—its industry-leading features make it the ultimate starting point for precise and streamlined results.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison