Quick Overview
- 1#1: Paperless Parts - Streamlines quoting, order management, and nesting for custom machining and fabrication shops.
- 2#2: aShop - Delivers instant AI-powered quotes for CNC machined parts directly from uploaded CAD files.
- 3#3: E2 Shop System - Provides comprehensive shop floor management with advanced quoting and job tracking for machine shops.
- 4#4: JobBOSS² - Offers ERP software with rapid quoting, scheduling, and inventory control for job shops.
- 5#5: ProShop - Integrates quality management, CRM, and quoting in a single platform for precision machining.
- 6#6: Global Shop Solutions - Delivers full ERP functionality including quoting, nesting, and production management for shops.
- 7#7: MIE Trak Pro - Supports quoting from CAD imports with integrated ERP for make-to-order manufacturing.
- 8#8: MRPeasy - Cloud MRP system with simple quoting, production planning, and inventory for small shops.
- 9#9: Costimator - Automates detailed cost estimating and quoting for machining operations from routings.
- 10#10: aPriori - Uses AI for manufacturing cost analysis and accurate quoting across design variations.
Tools were ranked based on robust quoting capabilities, integration with essential workflows (including nesting, order management, and shop floor tracking), user-friendliness, and overall value, ensuring they deliver tangible benefits across diverse shop sizes and operational needs.
Comparison Table
Machine shop quoting software simplifies estimating and job tracking, and this comparison table details top tools—such as Paperless Parts, aShop, E2 Shop System, JobBOSS², ProShop, and more—to guide shops in finding the best fit. It highlights key features, usability, and performance, helping readers assess options for efficiency and accuracy in their quoting workflows.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Paperless Parts Streamlines quoting, order management, and nesting for custom machining and fabrication shops. | specialized | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.3/10 |
| 2 | aShop Delivers instant AI-powered quotes for CNC machined parts directly from uploaded CAD files. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 3 | E2 Shop System Provides comprehensive shop floor management with advanced quoting and job tracking for machine shops. | enterprise | 8.5/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 4 | JobBOSS² Offers ERP software with rapid quoting, scheduling, and inventory control for job shops. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | ProShop Integrates quality management, CRM, and quoting in a single platform for precision machining. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 6 | Global Shop Solutions Delivers full ERP functionality including quoting, nesting, and production management for shops. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.9/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | MIE Trak Pro Supports quoting from CAD imports with integrated ERP for make-to-order manufacturing. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 6.5/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 8 | MRPeasy Cloud MRP system with simple quoting, production planning, and inventory for small shops. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 9 | Costimator Automates detailed cost estimating and quoting for machining operations from routings. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.7/10 | 6.5/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 10 | aPriori Uses AI for manufacturing cost analysis and accurate quoting across design variations. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
Streamlines quoting, order management, and nesting for custom machining and fabrication shops.
Delivers instant AI-powered quotes for CNC machined parts directly from uploaded CAD files.
Provides comprehensive shop floor management with advanced quoting and job tracking for machine shops.
Offers ERP software with rapid quoting, scheduling, and inventory control for job shops.
Integrates quality management, CRM, and quoting in a single platform for precision machining.
Delivers full ERP functionality including quoting, nesting, and production management for shops.
Supports quoting from CAD imports with integrated ERP for make-to-order manufacturing.
Cloud MRP system with simple quoting, production planning, and inventory for small shops.
Automates detailed cost estimating and quoting for machining operations from routings.
Uses AI for manufacturing cost analysis and accurate quoting across design variations.
Paperless Parts
specializedStreamlines quoting, order management, and nesting for custom machining and fabrication shops.
AI-driven instant quoting from STEP files with 95%+ accuracy, including automatic tolerance analysis and material costing
Paperless Parts is a cloud-based quoting and manufacturing execution software tailored for machine shops specializing in CNC machining, sheet metal fabrication, and tube bending. It automates instant quoting directly from CAD files like STEP and DXF, generating accurate prices, lead times, and detailed manufacturing instructions. The platform also offers nesting optimization, purchase order automation, and integrations with ERPs like JobOps and E2 Shop System to streamline shop operations from quote to delivery.
Pros
- Ultra-fast, accurate quoting from native CAD files without manual input
- Comprehensive manufacturing planning tools including nesting and routings
- Robust integrations with ERP, CRM, and accounting software for end-to-end workflow
Cons
- Higher pricing may deter very small shops
- Steeper learning curve for advanced customization
- Limited support for non-standard processes outside machining and fab
Best For
Mid-sized machine shops seeking to automate quoting and scale operations without sacrificing accuracy.
Pricing
Subscription starts at ~$500/month for basic plans, scaling to $2,000+/month for enterprise with custom features; volume-based discounts available.
aShop
specializedDelivers instant AI-powered quotes for CNC machined parts directly from uploaded CAD files.
AI-powered instant quoting directly from uploaded CAD files with automated cycle time and cost analysis
aShop.ai is an AI-powered quoting software designed specifically for machine shops, automating the generation of precise quotes from CAD files (STEP, DXF) and engineering drawings in seconds. It leverages machine learning to estimate cycle times, material costs, tooling, and setup times with high accuracy, while suggesting optimal pricing to win more bids. The platform integrates with ERP/CRM systems like JobBOSS and E2 Shop System, streamlining the transition from quote to production order.
Pros
- Ultra-fast AI-driven quoting reduces turnaround from days to minutes
- High accuracy for complex parts with detailed cost breakdowns
- Strong integrations with shop management software for end-to-end workflows
Cons
- Limited support for non-standard file formats or highly custom processes
- Subscription pricing can be steep for small shops
- Occasional need for manual overrides on AI estimates for edge cases
Best For
Mid-sized machine shops with high quote volumes seeking to automate and accelerate their bidding process without sacrificing accuracy.
Pricing
Enterprise subscription starting at $500/month per shop, with pay-per-quote options and custom tiers based on volume.
E2 Shop System
enterpriseProvides comprehensive shop floor management with advanced quoting and job tracking for machine shops.
The dynamic Quote Manager that imports CAD data and generates accurate, detailed quotes in minutes using predefined routings and nesting integration
E2 Shop System by ShopTech is a comprehensive ERP software tailored for job shops and make-to-order manufacturers, with robust quoting tools specifically designed for machine shops. It enables rapid quote generation by automating cost calculations based on routings, materials, labor, and overheads, while integrating seamlessly with CAD/CAM, scheduling, and inventory management. The system supports complex quoting scenarios, including multi-level assemblies and custom operations, making it ideal for precise, competitive bidding in competitive machine shop environments.
Pros
- Powerful automated quoting engine with routing optimization and real-time cost analysis
- Full ERP integration for quoting-to-production workflow
- Customizable templates and strong reporting for shop-specific needs
Cons
- On-premise installation requires significant IT setup and maintenance
- Steep learning curve for non-ERP users
- Higher upfront costs may deter very small shops
Best For
Mid-sized machine shops and job shops needing integrated quoting within a full ERP system for efficient operations.
Pricing
Perpetual licensing model with modular pricing; base system typically $15,000-$30,000 plus 15-20% annual maintenance fees.
JobBOSS²
enterpriseOffers ERP software with rapid quoting, scheduling, and inventory control for job shops.
CAD-driven instant quoting with automatic routing and cost generation from engineering files
JobBOSS² is a comprehensive ERP software suite from ECI Software Solutions, tailored for job shops and make-to-order manufacturers, with strong quoting tools for machine shops. It enables precise quoting by importing CAD files (DXF, DWG), defining routings and operations, and automatically calculating costs for materials, labor, setup, and overhead. The system integrates quoting directly into production planning, inventory, scheduling, and accounting for streamlined operations.
Pros
- Robust CAD import and auto-costing for accurate machine shop quotes
- Seamless integration from quote to production and ERP functions
- Customizable routings and nesting for complex parts
Cons
- Steep learning curve and extensive training required
- Custom pricing can be expensive for smaller shops
- Some users report slow performance with large datasets
Best For
Mid-sized machine shops requiring integrated quoting, scheduling, and full shop management.
Pricing
Custom quotes starting around $150-$250 per user/month, plus implementation and training fees.
ProShop
enterpriseIntegrates quality management, CRM, and quoting in a single platform for precision machining.
CAD-driven automated quoting that generates detailed routings, cycle times, and costs directly from STEP/IGES files without manual programming
ProShop is a comprehensive ERP/MES software tailored for job shops and contract manufacturers, with a robust quoting module that automates cost calculations from CAD files, routings, materials, and overheads. It enables rapid quote generation for complex machined parts by integrating engineering data, programming estimates, and profitability analysis. Beyond quoting, it manages the full production lifecycle, making it ideal for high-precision environments like aerospace and medical device manufacturing.
Pros
- CAD-associative quoting automates routings from 3D models
- Deep integration with shop floor execution and quality management
- Highly customizable for complex quoting scenarios
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive feature set
- Expensive for small shops or basic quoting needs
- Implementation requires significant setup time
Best For
Mid-to-large machine shops handling complex, precision parts that need quoting integrated with full ERP/MES functionality.
Pricing
Custom quote-based SaaS pricing; typically $150-400/user/month plus $20K+ implementation fees depending on modules and scale.
Global Shop Solutions
enterpriseDelivers full ERP functionality including quoting, nesting, and production management for shops.
True capacity-based instant quoting that dynamically factors in real shop floor availability, tooling, and bottlenecks for highly accurate bids.
Global Shop Solutions is a comprehensive ERP platform designed for machine shops and job shops, with a powerful quoting module that enables rapid generation of accurate quotes based on real-time shop capacity, inventory, and routing data. It integrates quoting seamlessly with scheduling, inventory management, and production control, allowing users to perform what-if analyses and account for complex multi-level routings. The software supports CAD import for precise part costing and automates overhead, material, and labor calculations to minimize errors in competitive bidding.
Pros
- Deep integration with full ERP for end-to-end shop management
- Advanced capacity-based quoting with what-if scenario planning
- Highly customizable routings and cost structures for complex jobs
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features
- High implementation and customization costs
- Interface feels dated compared to modern cloud-native tools
Best For
Mid-sized machine shops requiring integrated ERP quoting with precise capacity planning for high-volume, complex quoting needs.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing starting around $2,000-$5,000 per month for mid-tier deployments, including modules, users, and implementation fees.
MIE Trak Pro
enterpriseSupports quoting from CAD imports with integrated ERP for make-to-order manufacturing.
Direct CAD import and automated quoting from SolidWorks models, eliminating manual data entry for engineering-to-quote processes
MIE Trak Pro is a comprehensive ERP platform designed for machine shops and contract manufacturers, with advanced quoting tools that integrate seamlessly with CAD/CAM systems like SolidWorks and AutoCAD. It automates quote generation by pulling data from engineering drawings, routings, materials, and labor rates to produce accurate cost estimates quickly. Beyond quoting, it supports full job tracking, inventory management, and production scheduling, making it a robust solution for end-to-end shop operations.
Pros
- Deep CAD integration for precise quoting from 3D models and drawings
- All-in-one ERP with quoting, scheduling, and traceability features
- Customizable routings and real-time cost analysis for complex parts
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive feature set
- Outdated user interface compared to modern cloud-native tools
- High implementation costs and customization needs
Best For
Mid-sized machine shops requiring integrated CAD-driven quoting and full ERP capabilities for complex manufacturing workflows.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise pricing, typically starting at $20,000+ for initial setup with annual maintenance fees around 20%; on-premise or hosted options available.
MRPeasy
specializedCloud MRP system with simple quoting, production planning, and inventory for small shops.
Automatic quote-to-production order conversion using live shop capacity and cost data
MRPeasy is a cloud-based MRP/ERP system tailored for small to medium manufacturers, including machine shops, offering robust quoting tools that pull from real-time inventory, material costs, and production data. It streamlines quote creation with customizable templates, pricing rules, and integration to CRM and order management. The software excels in bridging quoting with full production planning, ensuring quotes reflect accurate shop floor capacities and costs.
Pros
- Integrated quoting with real-time cost data from inventory and production
- User-friendly interface with drag-and-drop scheduling
- Strong mobile app for on-shop-floor quote approvals and updates
Cons
- Quoting lacks deep customization for highly complex routings
- Per-user pricing scales quickly for larger teams
- Full ERP features may overwhelm users needing only quoting
Best For
Small to medium machine shops seeking an all-in-one MRP solution where quoting feeds directly into production scheduling.
Pricing
Starts at $49/user/month (Basic, billed annually) up to $99/user/month (Platinum tier); custom enterprise pricing available.
Costimator
specializedAutomates detailed cost estimating and quoting for machining operations from routings.
CAD-driven automatic feature recognition and costing engine
Costimator is a specialized estimating software for machine shops, focusing on accurate cost quoting for CNC machined parts directly from CAD models. It uses advanced feature recognition to automatically identify machining operations like pockets, holes, and contours from STEP/IGES files, applying a comprehensive knowledge base of cycle times, feeds, speeds, and material costs. The tool generates detailed breakdowns to support competitive bidding and profitability analysis, making it suitable for precision manufacturing environments.
Pros
- Automatic CAD feature extraction for rapid quoting
- Extensive library of machining processes and costs
- Detailed, auditable cost reports for negotiations
Cons
- Steep learning curve for full proficiency
- High initial cost and maintenance fees
- Limited support for non-machining processes or modern cloud integrations
Best For
Machine shops specializing in complex CNC milled and turned parts that require precise, feature-based quoting from CAD files.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at ~$12,000-$25,000 depending on modules, plus ~20% annual maintenance.
aPriori
enterpriseUses AI for manufacturing cost analysis and accurate quoting across design variations.
Automated manufacturing process generation and digital factory simulation directly from 3D CAD models
aPriori is a cloud-based digital manufacturing platform that automates cost estimation and quoting for machined parts by analyzing CAD models through advanced simulation. It generates detailed manufacturing process plans, cycle times, and cost breakdowns, incorporating real-world factory data for accuracy. Primarily used by manufacturing engineers for rapid, data-driven quoting in machine shops handling complex parts.
Pros
- Exceptionally accurate cost and cycle time predictions from CAD geometry
- Comprehensive digital twin simulation for machining and assembly processes
- Strong integrations with CAD, PLM, and ERP systems
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface for new users
- High enterprise-level pricing not suited for small shops
- Overkill for simple or low-volume quoting needs
Best For
Large machine shops or OEM suppliers quoting complex, high-value machined parts requiring precise process simulation.
Pricing
Enterprise subscription pricing starting at $50,000+ annually, based on users, modules, and deployment scale; custom quotes required.
Conclusion
Choosing the right machine shop quoting software hinges on balancing specific needs, with the top three tools leading the pack. Paperless Parts reigns supreme, streamlining quoting, order management, and nesting for custom machining and fabrication. aShop and E2 Shop System stand out as strong alternatives, offering instant AI-powered quotes from CAD files and comprehensive shop floor management, respectively, each excelling in distinct operational areas.
Ready to transform your quoting process? Start with Paperless Parts to unlock seamless workflows, better efficiency, and improved accuracy for your shop.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison