Quick Overview
- 1#1: Tekla PowerFab - Cloud-based steel fabrication management software with advanced estimating, production control, and project management features.
- 2#2: FabSuite - Integrated steel fabrication ERP system providing estimating, nesting, inventory, and shop floor management.
- 3#3: StruMIS - Comprehensive ERP for steel fabricators featuring automated estimating, design automation, nesting, and production control.
- 4#4: SigmaNEST - Advanced CAD/CAM nesting software with precise quoting, estimating, and material optimization for fabrication.
- 5#5: ProNest - Nesting and cutting software that delivers accurate cost estimating and material savings for fabrication shops.
- 6#6: ShopWare - Manufacturing ERP tailored for fabrication businesses with integrated quoting, estimating, and CRM tools.
- 7#7: Eagle - Steel fabrication management software offering robust estimating, scheduling, purchasing, and job tracking.
- 8#8: RADAN - CAD/CAM suite for sheet metal fabrication with quoting, nesting, bending simulation, and estimating modules.
- 9#9: JobBOSS² - Shop floor management and ERP software for fabricators featuring detailed job estimating and costing.
- 10#10: Bluebeam Revu - PDF markup and takeoff tool for accurate quantity takeoffs and cost estimating in fabrication projects.
Tools were ranked based on core functionality (estimating accuracy, nesting efficiency, production integration), user experience, market validation, and overall value, ensuring relevance for diverse fabrication operations.
Comparison Table
This comparison table explores leading fabrication estimating software, featuring Tekla PowerFab, FabSuite, StruMIS, SigmaNEST, ProNest, and more, to help readers understand key features and workflows for informed tool selection. It breaks down capabilities, integration potential, and usability to support professionals in identifying the best fit for their specific project needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tekla PowerFab Cloud-based steel fabrication management software with advanced estimating, production control, and project management features. | enterprise | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | FabSuite Integrated steel fabrication ERP system providing estimating, nesting, inventory, and shop floor management. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.6/10 |
| 3 | StruMIS Comprehensive ERP for steel fabricators featuring automated estimating, design automation, nesting, and production control. | enterprise | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | SigmaNEST Advanced CAD/CAM nesting software with precise quoting, estimating, and material optimization for fabrication. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 5 | ProNest Nesting and cutting software that delivers accurate cost estimating and material savings for fabrication shops. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | ShopWare Manufacturing ERP tailored for fabrication businesses with integrated quoting, estimating, and CRM tools. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 7 | Eagle Steel fabrication management software offering robust estimating, scheduling, purchasing, and job tracking. | enterprise | 7.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.5/10 | 7.1/10 |
| 8 | RADAN CAD/CAM suite for sheet metal fabrication with quoting, nesting, bending simulation, and estimating modules. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.4/10 | 6.2/10 | 7.1/10 |
| 9 | JobBOSS² Shop floor management and ERP software for fabricators featuring detailed job estimating and costing. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | Bluebeam Revu PDF markup and takeoff tool for accurate quantity takeoffs and cost estimating in fabrication projects. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
Cloud-based steel fabrication management software with advanced estimating, production control, and project management features.
Integrated steel fabrication ERP system providing estimating, nesting, inventory, and shop floor management.
Comprehensive ERP for steel fabricators featuring automated estimating, design automation, nesting, and production control.
Advanced CAD/CAM nesting software with precise quoting, estimating, and material optimization for fabrication.
Nesting and cutting software that delivers accurate cost estimating and material savings for fabrication shops.
Manufacturing ERP tailored for fabrication businesses with integrated quoting, estimating, and CRM tools.
Steel fabrication management software offering robust estimating, scheduling, purchasing, and job tracking.
CAD/CAM suite for sheet metal fabrication with quoting, nesting, bending simulation, and estimating modules.
Shop floor management and ERP software for fabricators featuring detailed job estimating and costing.
PDF markup and takeoff tool for accurate quantity takeoffs and cost estimating in fabrication projects.
Tekla PowerFab
enterpriseCloud-based steel fabrication management software with advanced estimating, production control, and project management features.
Intelligent BIM-based estimating that automatically extracts quantities, costs, and labor from 3D models for unparalleled accuracy
Tekla PowerFab is a comprehensive cloud-based platform tailored for steel fabrication management, with advanced estimating tools that leverage BIM models for precise material takeoffs and cost calculations. It streamlines the entire fabrication workflow, from bid management and project planning to production control and inventory tracking. Designed for integration with Tekla Structures, it enables fabricators to generate accurate estimates directly from 3D models, reducing errors and improving bid win rates.
Pros
- Highly accurate model-based estimating from BIM integration
- Real-time cloud collaboration for teams and supply chain
- Seamless automation of production control and material management
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- High cost suitable mainly for mid-to-large firms
- Requires Tekla ecosystem for full potential
Best For
Large steel fabrication companies handling complex structural projects that demand BIM-driven precision and end-to-end workflow automation.
Pricing
Custom enterprise subscription pricing based on modules and users; typically starts at $5,000+ annually per user, with quotes required.
FabSuite
enterpriseIntegrated steel fabrication ERP system providing estimating, nesting, inventory, and shop floor management.
Direct 3D model import and intelligent estimating engine that pulls precise quantities and costs from BIM models without manual re-entry
FabSuite by Hexagon is a robust enterprise software suite tailored for steel fabrication shops, offering advanced estimating capabilities that automate material take-offs, labor costing, and bid generation from 2D drawings or 3D models. It integrates estimating seamlessly with nesting, production scheduling, inventory management, and quality control for end-to-end workflow optimization. Designed for precision and scalability, it helps fabricators win more bids with accurate, data-driven estimates while reducing errors in complex projects.
Pros
- Highly accurate automated estimating with support for 3D models from Tekla, SDS/2, and other platforms
- Full integration across estimating, nesting, production, and ERP modules for streamlined operations
- Customizable databases and historical data for precise labor and material costing
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training and implementation time
- High upfront costs and ongoing fees suited more for larger operations
- Primarily focused on steel fabrication, less flexible for other materials
Best For
Medium to large steel fabrication companies needing integrated estimating and production management for complex, high-volume projects.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise licensing, typically $20,000+ annually for core modules, plus implementation fees and per-user costs.
StruMIS
enterpriseComprehensive ERP for steel fabricators featuring automated estimating, design automation, nesting, and production control.
Seamless integration of estimating with automated nesting and CAM output for precise material utilization and zero-waste bidding
StruMIS is a specialized software suite for steel fabrication management, with robust estimating capabilities that automate material take-offs, labor costing, and bid generation from CAD models. It integrates seamlessly with detailing, nesting, production control, and CAM systems for end-to-end workflow efficiency. Designed for structural steel fabricators, it handles complex projects with precise cost tracking and waste minimization.
Pros
- Advanced estimating accuracy with automatic nesting and material optimization integration
- Full workflow connectivity from bid to production, reducing errors and delays
- Customizable templates and real-time cost updates for complex steel projects
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to its comprehensive and specialized nature
- Primarily tailored for steel fabrication, limiting versatility for other materials
- Enterprise-level pricing may be prohibitive for small shops
Best For
Mid-to-large steel fabrication companies managing complex structural projects that require integrated estimating and production control.
Pricing
Custom pricing based on modules, users, and deployment (cloud or on-premise); typically starts at $10,000+ annually with quotes required.
SigmaNEST
specializedAdvanced CAD/CAM nesting software with precise quoting, estimating, and material optimization for fabrication.
Multi-sheet true-shape nesting with intelligent remnant tracking for unmatched material efficiency in estimates
SigmaNEST is a powerful CAD/CAM nesting software optimized for fabrication processes like plasma, laser, and waterjet cutting, focusing on true-shape nesting to minimize material waste. It generates detailed reports on material usage, machine run times, and labor costs, enabling accurate fabrication estimating. While excelling in optimization, it integrates with ERP systems to support full quoting workflows but is not a standalone estimating platform.
Pros
- Exceptional true-shape nesting algorithms provide precise material and time estimates reducing quoting errors
- Seamless integration with ERP/MRP systems for automated cost data flow
- Advanced remnant management maximizes material reuse for cost savings
Cons
- Steep learning curve requires significant training for new users
- High upfront and ongoing costs may not suit small shops
- Estimating capabilities are nesting-dependent rather than fully comprehensive standalone tools
Best For
Mid-to-large fabrication shops with complex sheet metal operations seeking optimization-driven estimating accuracy.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing starting around $15,000+ for base licenses, with annual maintenance and modular add-ons increasing costs.
ProNest
specializedNesting and cutting software that delivers accurate cost estimating and material savings for fabrication shops.
Automatic true-shape nesting with cluster recognition and common line cutting, enabling up to 20% material savings and highly accurate cost predictions.
ProNest by Hypertherm is advanced CAD/CAM nesting software optimized for plasma, laser, oxyfuel, and waterjet cutting machines in fabrication environments. It excels at true-shape nesting to minimize material waste, reduce cycle times, and generate precise reports on material utilization, cut lengths, and production costs. While not a full-fledged estimating suite, it provides critical data inputs for fabrication cost estimation, making it valuable for shops focused on sheet metal and plate cutting workflows.
Pros
- Highly accurate true-shape nesting algorithms that significantly reduce scrap and material costs
- Comprehensive reporting on nest efficiency, cut times, and cost breakdowns for reliable estimating
- Strong integration with Hypertherm plasma systems and other CNC controllers
- Supports multi-process cutting and complex part geometries with automation features
Cons
- Steep learning curve, especially for users new to advanced CAM software
- Primarily nesting-focused, lacking broader estimating tools like labor or overhead calculators
- Pricing can be high for smaller shops without volume justifying the investment
- Limited native support for non-cutting fabrication processes
Best For
Mid-sized sheet metal fabricators and plasma/laser cutting shops that require precise nesting data to feed into their estimating and quoting processes.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start around $4,000-$10,000 depending on edition (Standard, Pro, Premium), plus annual maintenance (~15-20%); subscription models available via partners.
ShopWare
enterpriseManufacturing ERP tailored for fabrication businesses with integrated quoting, estimating, and CRM tools.
Advanced estimating engine with automatic CAD-driven takeoffs and dynamic costing for welded assemblies
ShopWare is a robust ERP platform tailored for metal fabrication shops, offering advanced estimating capabilities that integrate CAD imports, automatic nesting, and precise cost calculations for materials, labor, and overhead. It streamlines quoting for complex jobs with multi-level bills of materials, assemblies, and custom routings. Beyond estimating, it provides end-to-end shop management including scheduling, inventory, and CRM.
Pros
- Fabrication-specific estimating with CAD/CAM integration and nesting optimization
- Handles complex multi-level BOMs and assemblies accurately
- Comprehensive ERP integration reduces silos in shop operations
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features
- High implementation and customization costs
- Less intuitive interface compared to standalone estimating tools
Best For
Mid-to-large metal fabrication shops requiring integrated ERP with precise estimating for complex projects.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $5,000+ per month depending on modules and users, plus implementation fees.
Eagle
enterpriseSteel fabrication management software offering robust estimating, scheduling, purchasing, and job tracking.
Intelligent auto-takeoff from CAD files with dynamic nesting and bend deduction calculations for unparalleled fabrication accuracy
Eagle by Vertical Software is a dedicated estimating solution for fabrication shops, specializing in sheet metal, structural steel, and miscellaneous metals. It automates takeoffs from DXF/DWG files, calculates costs for materials, labor, welding, and nesting, while integrating with ERP systems for seamless job management. The software emphasizes accuracy in complex geometries and provides detailed bid reports to improve quoting precision and profitability tracking.
Pros
- Automated CAD-based takeoffs for precise material and labor estimates
- Strong nesting optimization and cost modeling for complex fabrications
- Robust reporting and ERP integrations for job tracking
Cons
- Steep learning curve with dated interface requiring extensive training
- Limited cloud/mobile accessibility, primarily Windows desktop-based
- Customization can be time-consuming and support-dependent
Best For
Mid-sized fabrication shops handling sheet metal and steel projects that prioritize detailed, CAD-driven estimating accuracy over modern UI simplicity.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically $4,000–$10,000 annual subscription depending on modules and users, with perpetual license options available.
RADAN
specializedCAD/CAM suite for sheet metal fabrication with quoting, nesting, bending simulation, and estimating modules.
Patented AP100 nesting technology that delivers industry-leading material utilization for accurate estimating
RADAN from Hexagon is a CAD/CAM software suite designed primarily for sheet metal fabrication, featuring advanced tools for design, nesting, bending simulation, and NC code generation. It supports fabrication estimating through precise material optimization, cut-list generation, and production time calculations derived from nesting and machining simulations. While not a standalone estimating tool, it integrates estimating workflows with manufacturing execution, helping fabricators generate accurate quotes based on real production data.
Pros
- Superior nesting algorithms reduce material waste and enable precise cost calculations
- Seamless integration with CNC machines for punching, laser, and plasma cutting
- Comprehensive support for sheet metal processes from design to production tracking
Cons
- Steep learning curve requires significant training for full utilization
- High enterprise-level pricing not ideal for small shops
- Primarily focused on sheet metal, less versatile for other fabrication types
Best For
Mid-to-large sheet metal fabrication shops needing integrated production planning and estimating capabilities.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing; typically annual subscriptions starting at $10,000+ depending on modules and users.
JobBOSS²
enterpriseShop floor management and ERP software for fabricators featuring detailed job estimating and costing.
Dynamic QuickQuote module that pulls real-time costs from routings and inventory for precise, repeatable fabrication estimates
JobBOSS² is a robust ERP software tailored for job shops and make-to-order manufacturers, including fabrication operations, offering integrated quoting and estimating tools to calculate costs for materials, labor, machining, and overhead. It streamlines the fabrication estimating process by allowing users to build routings, apply markups, and generate professional quotes quickly. Beyond estimating, it connects seamlessly to job tracking, inventory control, scheduling, and accounting for comprehensive shop management.
Pros
- Powerful estimating with customizable routings and automatic cost roll-ups
- Full integration with shop management, inventory, and accounting modules
- Strong reporting and historical data for accurate bid refinement
Cons
- Dated Windows-based interface with a steep learning curve
- Limited built-in support for advanced fabrication features like auto-nesting or CAD import
- Customization and setup require IT expertise or vendor assistance
Best For
Small to mid-sized fabrication job shops needing an all-in-one ERP system where estimating is part of broader operational management.
Pricing
Custom quote required; modular subscription pricing starts around $200/user/month, with on-premise options available.
Bluebeam Revu
specializedPDF markup and takeoff tool for accurate quantity takeoffs and cost estimating in fabrication projects.
Quantity Link, which automatically populates and updates Excel spreadsheets with takeoff measurements for real-time estimating.
Bluebeam Revu is a versatile PDF-based software solution tailored for the AEC industry, providing robust digital takeoff and measurement tools that support fabrication estimating from shop drawings and plans. It enables precise quantity takeoffs, area/perimeter calculations, and custom markups, with data export to Excel for cost analysis and reporting. While not a dedicated fabrication estimating platform, its scripting and toolset customization make it adaptable for 2D-based fabrication workflows.
Pros
- Powerful digital takeoff and measurement tools for accurate quantity extraction from PDFs
- Seamless Excel integration via Quantity Link for dynamic estimating and reporting
- Customizable toolsets and scripting for fabrication-specific workflows
Cons
- Lacks built-in material, labor, and cost databases typical of specialized fab estimating software
- Limited 3D modeling or BIM integration for complex fabrication projects
- Subscription pricing can add up for small fabrication shops without broad AEC needs
Best For
Fabrication estimators and detailers working primarily with 2D PDF drawings who need reliable takeoff tools integrated with spreadsheets.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at $239/user for Basics, $349 for Core, and $449 for Complete edition.
Conclusion
Evaluating the 10 fabrication estimating tools reveals a strong landscape of solutions, with Tekla PowerFab rising as the top choice—its cloud-based management and advanced estimating features setting it apart. FabSuite and StruMIS follow closely, offering robust alternatives for those prioritizing ERP integration or design automation. Each tool excels in specific areas, but these three lead in delivering precision and efficiency for modern fabrication workflows.
Explore Tekla PowerFab to unlock its all-in-one capabilities and streamline your estimating and project management, or consider FabSuite or StruMIS to align with your unique operational needs.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison