Quick Overview
- 1#1: SoftList - AI-powered software that automatically performs precise lumber takeoffs from PDF construction plans.
- 2#2: Plaid - Lumber-specific takeoff and estimating software designed for building material suppliers and framers.
- 3#3: Bluebeam Revu - Advanced PDF-based takeoff tool with customizable templates for accurate lumber quantity calculations.
- 4#4: PlanSwift - Digital takeoff software enabling fast point-and-click measurements for lumber framing estimates.
- 5#5: STACK - Cloud-based construction takeoff platform with assemblies and formulas for detailed lumber estimating.
- 6#6: On-Screen Takeoff - Precise on-screen measurement software for generating lumber takeoffs integrated with Excel.
- 7#7: eTakeoff - Professional digital takeoff solution with dimensioning tools for lumber and material quantification.
- 8#8: Togal.AI - AI-automated takeoff software that instantly detects and quantifies lumber from digital plans.
- 9#9: Autodesk Takeoff - Cloud-integrated takeoff tool supporting 2D/3D plans for comprehensive lumber quantity extraction.
- 10#10: Kreo - AI-assisted takeoff and estimating software for rapid lumber measurements from drawings.
Tools were ranked based on accuracy, user-friendliness, feature depth, and practical value, ensuring they cater to roles like suppliers, framers, and contractors while leveraging cutting-edge capabilities.
Comparison Table
Lumber takeoff software streamlines the essential task of material quantification in construction projects, with prominent tools such as SoftList, Plaid, Bluebeam Revu, PlanSwift, STACK, and more. This comparison table outlines key features, usability, integration strengths, and unique advantages of these platforms, equipping readers to choose the ideal solution for their project requirements and workflows.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | SoftList AI-powered software that automatically performs precise lumber takeoffs from PDF construction plans. | specialized | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 2 | Plaid Lumber-specific takeoff and estimating software designed for building material suppliers and framers. | specialized | 8.8/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 3 | Bluebeam Revu Advanced PDF-based takeoff tool with customizable templates for accurate lumber quantity calculations. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | PlanSwift Digital takeoff software enabling fast point-and-click measurements for lumber framing estimates. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 5 | STACK Cloud-based construction takeoff platform with assemblies and formulas for detailed lumber estimating. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 6 | On-Screen Takeoff Precise on-screen measurement software for generating lumber takeoffs integrated with Excel. | specialized | 7.9/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 7 | eTakeoff Professional digital takeoff solution with dimensioning tools for lumber and material quantification. | specialized | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.0/10 | 6.8/10 |
| 8 | Togal.AI AI-automated takeoff software that instantly detects and quantifies lumber from digital plans. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.9/10 | 7.3/10 |
| 9 | Autodesk Takeoff Cloud-integrated takeoff tool supporting 2D/3D plans for comprehensive lumber quantity extraction. | enterprise | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 10 | Kreo AI-assisted takeoff and estimating software for rapid lumber measurements from drawings. | specialized | 7.1/10 | 7.3/10 | 7.0/10 | 6.8/10 |
AI-powered software that automatically performs precise lumber takeoffs from PDF construction plans.
Lumber-specific takeoff and estimating software designed for building material suppliers and framers.
Advanced PDF-based takeoff tool with customizable templates for accurate lumber quantity calculations.
Digital takeoff software enabling fast point-and-click measurements for lumber framing estimates.
Cloud-based construction takeoff platform with assemblies and formulas for detailed lumber estimating.
Precise on-screen measurement software for generating lumber takeoffs integrated with Excel.
Professional digital takeoff solution with dimensioning tools for lumber and material quantification.
AI-automated takeoff software that instantly detects and quantifies lumber from digital plans.
Cloud-integrated takeoff tool supporting 2D/3D plans for comprehensive lumber quantity extraction.
AI-assisted takeoff and estimating software for rapid lumber measurements from drawings.
SoftList
specializedAI-powered software that automatically performs precise lumber takeoffs from PDF construction plans.
ShopList generator that creates waste-optimized, printer-ready shopping lists formatted for instant lumber yard use
SoftList is a specialized lumber takeoff software tailored for framers and builders, allowing users to import PDF plans and perform precise digital takeoffs for dimensional lumber, sheathing, and framing hardware. It automatically generates optimized cut lists, shopping lists compatible with major lumber yards, and calculates board feet with waste factors for accurate material ordering. The tool streamlines the process from plan review to procurement, reducing errors and manual math in construction estimating.
Pros
- Exceptional accuracy in framing calculations including studs, plates, and engineered wood
- Seamless PDF import and intuitive drawing tools for quick takeoffs
- Customizable reports and direct exports to Excel/PDF for yard orders
Cons
- Limited scope beyond lumber/framing (not a full estimating suite)
- Steeper learning curve for advanced customization of material libraries
- Subscription model may feel pricey for very small operations
Best For
Residential and light commercial framing contractors needing fast, precise lumber takeoffs and cut lists from digital plans.
Pricing
Starts at $49/month or $495/year for Pro plan; free trial available, with tiered options based on project volume.
Plaid
specializedLumber-specific takeoff and estimating software designed for building material suppliers and framers.
Live Pricing module that automatically pulls and updates supplier costs for instant, accurate quoting.
Plaid is a robust desktop-based estimating and takeoff software tailored for the lumber industry, including yards, distributors, truss manufacturers, and building material suppliers. It excels in performing precise digital takeoffs from PDFs, CAD files, and plans, calculating framing materials, panels, hardware, and accessories with high accuracy. The software integrates supplier pricing data, generates professional quotes, and supports customizable assemblies for efficient bidding and project management.
Pros
- Industry-specific takeoff tools for lumber, trusses, and framing with exceptional accuracy
- Live supplier pricing integration for real-time cost updates
- Customizable assemblies, reports, and integrations with accounting software
Cons
- Windows-only desktop application, lacking cloud or mobile access
- Steeper learning curve due to dense feature set
- Higher upfront cost without a free tier or trial
Best For
Established lumber yards, truss manufacturers, and building material distributors handling complex framing takeoffs and quotes.
Pricing
Perpetual license starting at approximately $4,995 with annual maintenance around $1,000; volume discounts and custom quotes available.
Bluebeam Revu
enterpriseAdvanced PDF-based takeoff tool with customizable templates for accurate lumber quantity calculations.
Dynamic measurement sets with scalable formulas and sets for repeatable, precise lumber board foot calculations across scaled drawings
Bluebeam Revu is a powerful PDF-based software suite designed for the AEC industry, offering advanced markup, measurement, and takeoff capabilities from digital plans. For lumber takeoff, it provides customizable tools to measure lengths, areas, and counts, with dynamic formulas for calculating board feet, volumes, and material quantities. It excels in exporting takeoff data to Excel and supports collaborative workflows via Bluebeam Studio for team reviews.
Pros
- Highly accurate measurement tools with custom formulas for lumber quantities like board feet
- Seamless PDF and CAD integration for quick plan imports
- Robust collaboration and cloud-based Studio for real-time team takeoffs
Cons
- Steep learning curve for custom toolsets and advanced scripting
- Not specialized for lumber-specific databases or automation like dedicated software
- Subscription pricing can be expensive for small firms
Best For
Construction estimators and teams handling multi-trade takeoffs who need versatile PDF tools for lumber and general quantity surveying.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions from $240/user (Basics) to $600+/user (Extreme); perpetual licenses available starting at $350.
PlanSwift
specializedDigital takeoff software enabling fast point-and-click measurements for lumber framing estimates.
Drag-and-drop assemblies that automate complex lumber quantity takeoffs with user-defined formulas
PlanSwift is a robust digital takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction professionals, enabling precise measurements from PDF blueprints and CAD files. For lumber takeoff, it excels in calculating board feet, linear feet, and material quantities using customizable assemblies and formulas. It automates bid preparation with reporting tools and integrates with popular accounting software, streamlining workflows for estimators.
Pros
- Highly accurate point-and-click takeoffs from digital plans
- Customizable assemblies for precise lumber calculations like board feet
- Strong integration with estimating and accounting tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced assemblies
- High upfront cost with annual maintenance fees
- Windows-only, no native mobile or cloud support
Best For
Construction estimators and framing contractors needing versatile digital takeoffs for lumber quantities in residential and commercial projects.
Pricing
One-time license starting at $1,749 for standard edition, plus ~$500 annual maintenance; volume discounts available.
STACK
enterpriseCloud-based construction takeoff platform with assemblies and formulas for detailed lumber estimating.
Dynamic assemblies that automatically compute lumber cuts, waste factors, and board feet from plan measurements
STACK is a cloud-based digital takeoff and estimating software designed for construction professionals, enabling precise quantity takeoffs from PDF plans, including detailed lumber measurements for framing, sheathing, and structural components. It features an extensive library of pre-built assemblies for studs, joists, beams, and plywood, allowing users to automate calculations and generate professional bid reports. The platform supports real-time collaboration and integrations with tools like QuickBooks, making it suitable for lumber-focused takeoffs in residential and commercial projects.
Pros
- Comprehensive assembly library tailored for lumber and framing takeoffs
- Cloud-based with seamless team collaboration and sharing
- Accurate digital measuring tools with PDF/DWG support
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers may not suit solo users or small firms
- Steeper learning curve for customizing advanced assemblies
- Mobile app lacks full desktop feature parity
Best For
Mid-sized framing contractors and lumber yards handling digital plan takeoffs for residential and light commercial projects.
Pricing
Free plan for basic takeoffs; Pro at $2,499/year per user; Team and Enterprise plans custom-priced with advanced features.
On-Screen Takeoff
specializedPrecise on-screen measurement software for generating lumber takeoffs integrated with Excel.
Advanced assembly editor for building reusable, formula-driven takeoff routines tailored to lumber components
On-Screen Takeoff (OST) by ConstructConnect is a desktop-based digital takeoff software that enables construction professionals to measure and quantify materials directly from PDF, CAD, or scanned plans on-screen. For lumber takeoff, it excels in creating custom assemblies to calculate quantities like board feet, linear feet, and piece counts from drawn elements such as walls, floors, and roofs. The tool supports precise scaling, annotations, and export to estimating software, streamlining the pre-bid process for estimators.
Pros
- Highly accurate digital measurements with auto-scaling for precise lumber quantities
- Customizable assemblies automate complex takeoff routines like framing schedules
- Seamless integration with Quick Bid for full estimating workflow
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to dense interface and advanced features
- Lacks specialized lumber tools like automatic waste optimization or 3D modeling
- Subscription model adds up for solo users without team scaling
Best For
Experienced construction estimators handling mid-sized projects with general material takeoffs including lumber.
Pricing
Starts at $179/month or $1,495/year per user; team licenses and add-ons available.
eTakeoff
specializedProfessional digital takeoff solution with dimensioning tools for lumber and material quantification.
Dynamic assemblies that allow users to define and apply pre-built lumber takeoff routines (e.g., wall framing with studs, plates, and headers) across entire plans
eTakeoff is a robust 2D digital takeoff software designed for construction professionals to extract precise measurements from PDF plans and blueprints. For lumber takeoff, it enables quick calculation of linear feet for studs, joists, and rafters, area measurements for plywood sheathing, and counts for miscellaneous framing items using customizable assemblies. It integrates with estimating tools to streamline the process from takeoff to bid, though it's more general-purpose than lumber-specific.
Pros
- Highly accurate PDF-based measurements for lengths, areas, and counts ideal for framing lumber
- Customizable assemblies automate repetitive lumber quantity calculations
- Strong integration with popular estimating software like Sage and Viewpoint
Cons
- Lacks built-in lumber-specific tools like board foot calculators or waste optimization
- Subscription pricing can be steep for smaller firms
- Primarily 2D-focused with no native 3D modeling for complex structures
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms and framers performing 2D takeoffs from digital plans for residential and light commercial lumber quantities.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription starting around $150/user/month for core takeoff features, with add-ons for estimating integration.
Togal.AI
specializedAI-automated takeoff software that instantly detects and quantifies lumber from digital plans.
Patented computer vision AI that instantly measures any plan without needing predefined templates or assemblies
Togal.AI is an AI-powered takeoff and estimating platform designed for construction professionals, using computer vision to automatically extract measurements like areas, lengths, and counts from blueprints, PDFs, or images. For lumber takeoff, it enables rapid quantification of framing elements such as studs, plates, and sheathing by detecting linear and area measurements on plans. While not exclusively tailored for lumber, its versatile AI automation significantly speeds up the process compared to manual methods, with export options to estimating tools.
Pros
- Ultra-fast AI-driven takeoffs reduce manual measuring time by up to 90%
- High accuracy in detecting plan elements for framing and sheathing quantities
- Cloud-based collaboration and seamless integration with popular estimating software
Cons
- Lacks specialized lumber calculators for board feet or waste factors, requiring manual adjustments
- Higher pricing may not suit small lumber-focused firms
- Limited advanced customization for niche lumber takeoff workflows
Best For
Construction estimators and general contractors needing quick, AI-automated takeoffs for lumber and other trades from digital plans.
Pricing
Pro plan at $295/user/month (billed annually); Enterprise custom pricing with advanced features.
Autodesk Takeoff
enterpriseCloud-integrated takeoff tool supporting 2D/3D plans for comprehensive lumber quantity extraction.
Hybrid 2D/3D takeoff with direct Revit model integration for accurate quantity extraction
Autodesk Takeoff is a cloud-based quantity takeoff tool within the Autodesk Construction Cloud ecosystem, designed for extracting material quantities from 2D PDFs, CAD files, and 3D BIM models. For lumber takeoff, it supports custom assemblies to calculate framing elements like studs, joists, and sheathing based on digital plans. It excels in collaborative environments, allowing teams to share takeoffs and integrate with Autodesk tools like Revit for streamlined workflows.
Pros
- Robust 2D and 3D takeoff from plans and models
- Free tier for unlimited 2D PDF takeoffs
- Seamless integration with Autodesk Revit and Construction Cloud
Cons
- Not specialized for automated lumber framing generation
- Steep learning curve for custom assemblies and advanced features
- Premium pricing adds up for small teams
Best For
Construction estimators and teams already using Autodesk tools who need versatile takeoffs including lumber quantities alongside other materials.
Pricing
Free for 2D takeoffs; Premium at $1,710 per user per year for 3D and advanced features.
Kreo
specializedAI-assisted takeoff and estimating software for rapid lumber measurements from drawings.
AI-powered automatic detection and measurement of objects from uploaded plans
Kreo (kreo.net) is an AI-powered cloud-based takeoff and estimating platform designed for construction professionals, automating 2D and 3D quantity takeoffs from PDFs, CAD files, and BIM models. For lumber takeoff, it excels in measuring linear elements like studs and joists, areas for sheathing, and counts for panels, with AI assistance to speed up the process. It integrates takeoff data directly into customizable estimating templates for material pricing and totals. While versatile for general construction, it offers reliable but not highly specialized tools for lumber-focused workflows.
Pros
- AI automation accelerates linear and area measurements for framing elements
- Cloud collaboration enables team access and real-time updates
- Seamless integration of takeoffs into estimating assemblies
Cons
- Lacks advanced lumber-specific calculators like automatic board feet or waste factors
- Subscription model can be costly for solo users or small firms
- AI accuracy may falter on highly detailed or non-standard plans
Best For
Mid-sized framing contractors or general builders seeking AI-assisted takeoffs for lumber quantities without needing ultra-specialized software.
Pricing
Starts at $59/user/month for Starter plan; Pro at $99/user/month; custom Enterprise pricing.
Conclusion
After reviewing the top 10 lumber takeoff tools, SoftList stands out as the top choice, boasting AI-powered precision that automates accurate takeoffs from PDF plans. Plaid and Bluebeam Revu follow closely, with Plaid designed for lumber suppliers and framers, and Bluebeam Revu offering customizable PDF workflows—each excels in specific needs but falls slightly short of SoftList's overall efficiency. In the end, SoftList leads as the most reliable solution for most users.
Don’t let manual takeoffs slow you down—try SoftList today and experience how its AI-driven accuracy can transform your lumber estimating process.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison