Quick Overview
- 1#1: BuildingConnected - Specialized platform for managing subcontractor bid invitations, submissions, comparisons, and awards in construction projects.
- 2#2: Procore - Comprehensive construction management software with a powerful Bid Board for tracking, comparing, and awarding subcontractor bids.
- 3#3: ConstructConnect - Bid management solution that helps track subcontractor bids, perform takeoffs, and manage project leads.
- 4#4: PlanHub - Online marketplace and bidding platform connecting general contractors with subcontractors for efficient bid tracking.
- 5#5: Buildertrend - Construction project management tool featuring subcontractor bid invitations, tracking, and selection processes.
- 6#6: Knowify - Job costing and management software that supports subcontractor bid tracking, approvals, and payments.
- 7#7: CoConstruct - Custom building software with tools for sending bid invites, collecting subcontractor quotes, and managing selections.
- 8#8: JobTread - Construction CRM and management platform that enables bid tracking, subcontractor communication, and job awarding.
- 9#9: eSUB - Cloud-based subcontractor management system with bid tracking, field productivity, and project oversight features.
- 10#10: Foundation Software - Construction accounting software integrated with estimating and bid management for subcontractor tracking.
We ranked these tools based on core functionality (bid tracking, invitation, and comparison capabilities), user experience, reliability, and overall value, balancing technical performance with practical usability for diverse construction teams.
Comparison Table
Navigating subcontractor bid tracking software can be challenging, but this comparison table simplifies the process by featuring tools like BuildingConnected, Procore, ConstructConnect, PlanHub, Buildertrend, and more. Readers will gain insights into each platform’s key features, strengths, and target use cases, helping them identify the best fit to streamline their bid management workflows.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | BuildingConnected Specialized platform for managing subcontractor bid invitations, submissions, comparisons, and awards in construction projects. | specialized | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.9/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 2 | Procore Comprehensive construction management software with a powerful Bid Board for tracking, comparing, and awarding subcontractor bids. | enterprise | 8.8/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 3 | ConstructConnect Bid management solution that helps track subcontractor bids, perform takeoffs, and manage project leads. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | PlanHub Online marketplace and bidding platform connecting general contractors with subcontractors for efficient bid tracking. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 5 | Buildertrend Construction project management tool featuring subcontractor bid invitations, tracking, and selection processes. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 6 | Knowify Job costing and management software that supports subcontractor bid tracking, approvals, and payments. | specialized | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 7 | CoConstruct Custom building software with tools for sending bid invites, collecting subcontractor quotes, and managing selections. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 8 | JobTread Construction CRM and management platform that enables bid tracking, subcontractor communication, and job awarding. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 9 | eSUB Cloud-based subcontractor management system with bid tracking, field productivity, and project oversight features. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 10 | Foundation Software Construction accounting software integrated with estimating and bid management for subcontractor tracking. | enterprise | 7.2/10 | 7.0/10 | 6.5/10 | 7.4/10 |
Specialized platform for managing subcontractor bid invitations, submissions, comparisons, and awards in construction projects.
Comprehensive construction management software with a powerful Bid Board for tracking, comparing, and awarding subcontractor bids.
Bid management solution that helps track subcontractor bids, perform takeoffs, and manage project leads.
Online marketplace and bidding platform connecting general contractors with subcontractors for efficient bid tracking.
Construction project management tool featuring subcontractor bid invitations, tracking, and selection processes.
Job costing and management software that supports subcontractor bid tracking, approvals, and payments.
Custom building software with tools for sending bid invites, collecting subcontractor quotes, and managing selections.
Construction CRM and management platform that enables bid tracking, subcontractor communication, and job awarding.
Cloud-based subcontractor management system with bid tracking, field productivity, and project oversight features.
Construction accounting software integrated with estimating and bid management for subcontractor tracking.
BuildingConnected
specializedSpecialized platform for managing subcontractor bid invitations, submissions, comparisons, and awards in construction projects.
The proprietary subcontractor directory with over 500,000 verified pros, enabling one-click invitations to qualified bidders nationwide.
BuildingConnected is a premier subcontractor bid tracking platform designed specifically for general contractors to manage the entire bidding process efficiently. It offers tools like the Bid Board for organizing and comparing subcontractor bids, Invitation Manager for targeted outreach, and real-time tracking of bid status and responses. Integrated with Autodesk Construction Cloud and Procore, it automates workflows, provides analytics for bid analysis, and connects users to a vast network of over 500,000 pre-qualified subcontractors.
Pros
- Massive verified subcontractor database for rapid bid invitations
- Advanced bid comparison and analytics tools for informed decisions
- Seamless integrations with Procore, Autodesk BIM 360, and other construction software
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small firms or low-volume users
- Steeper learning curve for advanced customization features
- Limited free tier or trial options
Best For
Large general contractors and construction managers handling complex, high-volume bidding processes who need robust tracking and subcontractor network access.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing starting at approximately $500/month per user, with tiers based on bid volume and features; contact sales for quotes.
Procore
enterpriseComprehensive construction management software with a powerful Bid Board for tracking, comparing, and awarding subcontractor bids.
Bid Board with automated notifications and side-by-side bid comparisons for quick decision-making
Procore is a leading construction management platform with dedicated subcontractor bid tracking tools that enable general contractors to manage the entire bid lifecycle efficiently. Users can create bid invitations, track submissions in a centralized Bid Board, compare bids side-by-side, and award contracts while attaching scopes of work, alternates, and exclusions. It integrates bid data seamlessly with estimating, scheduling, and project management features for end-to-end visibility.
Pros
- Comprehensive bid management with real-time tracking and collaboration
- Robust integration with other Procore tools for seamless workflow
- Advanced bid comparison tools including cost breakdowns and qualifiers
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to extensive features
- High pricing may not suit small contractors
- Occasional performance issues with large bid packages
Best For
Mid-to-large general contractors seeking integrated bid tracking within a full construction management platform.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically $500+ per month per project or user-based subscriptions starting at $375/user/year plus volume fees.
ConstructConnect
enterpriseBid management solution that helps track subcontractor bids, perform takeoffs, and manage project leads.
Unmatched project intelligence database covering $600+ billion in annual construction volume with detailed subcontractor and supplier lists
ConstructConnect is a robust construction intelligence platform that excels in providing subcontractors with access to a vast database of bidding opportunities across private and public projects. It offers tools for bid tracking, including project management, document sharing via a digital planroom, subcontractor qualification, and bid invitation management to streamline the bidding process. Subcontractors can monitor deadlines, communicate with general contractors, and analyze project data to improve bid success rates.
Pros
- Massive database of over 700,000 projects annually for comprehensive bid opportunity discovery
- Integrated planroom and document management for seamless access to plans, specs, and RFIs
- Advanced analytics and lead scoring to prioritize high-win-probability bids
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features and interface complexity
- High pricing that may not suit small subcontractors or startups
- Overemphasis on lead generation can overshadow pure bid tracking for some users
Best For
Mid-sized subcontractors in competitive markets seeking an all-in-one platform for bid discovery, tracking, and management.
Pricing
Custom subscription tiers starting at around $1,000/month for basic access, scaling up to $5,000+/month for enterprise features with volume discounts.
PlanHub
specializedOnline marketplace and bidding platform connecting general contractors with subcontractors for efficient bid tracking.
Massive pre-vetted subcontractor network for rapid bid solicitation
PlanHub is a construction-focused platform that connects general contractors with subcontractors through a centralized bid board, enabling efficient project postings, bid invitations, and submissions. It streamlines subcontractor bid tracking by allowing GCs to view, compare, and manage bids in real-time, with tools for document sharing and communication. The software emphasizes a vast network of verified subs, making it ideal for scaling bid collection across multiple projects.
Pros
- Extensive nationwide database of over 500,000 subcontractors
- Streamlined bid tracking and comparison tools
- Free for subcontractors, driving high participation rates
Cons
- Limited advanced analytics and reporting features
- Premium features locked behind paid plans for heavy GC users
- Customization options for bid forms are somewhat basic
Best For
General contractors managing multiple projects who need quick access to a large pool of subcontractors for bid tracking.
Pricing
Free for subcontractors; General contractors get limited free invites, with Pro plans starting at $299/month for unlimited postings and advanced tools.
Buildertrend
enterpriseConstruction project management tool featuring subcontractor bid invitations, tracking, and selection processes.
The centralized Bid Board with side-by-side bid comparison and automated notifications for streamlined subcontractor management
Buildertrend is a comprehensive construction management platform designed for general contractors, builders, and remodelers, with strong subcontractor bid tracking capabilities integrated into its estimating and project management tools. Users can send bid invitations via email or portal, collect and compare subcontractor bids side-by-side, and seamlessly transition approved bids into schedules, purchase orders, and budgets. It also provides a subcontractor portal for direct bid submissions, enhancing communication and efficiency throughout the bidding process.
Pros
- Robust bid board for inviting, tracking, and comparing subcontractor bids
- Subcontractor portal enables self-service bid submissions and document access
- Seamless integration with estimating, scheduling, and financial tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive feature set
- Pricing is higher and quote-based, less ideal for bid tracking only
- Interface can feel cluttered for users focused solely on bidding
Best For
General contractors and mid-sized construction firms needing integrated bid tracking within a full project management suite.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; plans start around $300-$500/month based on users, projects, and features (e.g., On-Site plan at $399/month).
Knowify
specializedJob costing and management software that supports subcontractor bid tracking, approvals, and payments.
Subcontractor Bid Portal for secure online bid submissions and real-time tracking
Knowify is a cloud-based construction management software tailored for subcontractors and trade contractors, with strong capabilities in bid tracking and management. It features a dedicated Bid Board for inviting bids, tracking subcontractor responses, comparing quotes side-by-side, and awarding contracts directly from the platform. Additional tools include job costing, time tracking, invoicing, and seamless QuickBooks Online integration to support end-to-end project workflows.
Pros
- Robust Bid Board for efficient subcontractor bid solicitation and comparison
- Deep QuickBooks integration for automated accounting
- Mobile app supports field bid tracking and updates
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for very small teams
- Moderate learning curve for full feature utilization
- Reporting customization is somewhat limited
Best For
Small to mid-sized subcontractors managing multiple bids and projects who need integrated estimating and accounting tools.
Pricing
Starts at $149/month for Essential plan (1-5 users); higher tiers from $299/month; custom enterprise pricing available.
CoConstruct
specializedCustom building software with tools for sending bid invites, collecting subcontractor quotes, and managing selections.
Bid Board with subcontractor portal for standardized bid submissions and real-time comparison matrices
CoConstruct is a construction management platform designed for custom home builders and remodelers, featuring robust subcontractor bid tracking tools within its broader suite. It allows users to create bid invitations, collect standardized bids from subs via a dedicated portal, and compare them apples-to-apples with built-in selection matrices. The software integrates bid data directly into budgeting, estimating, and scheduling workflows, streamlining the pre-construction phase. While not a standalone bid tracker, it excels in end-to-end bid management for growing construction firms.
Pros
- Comprehensive bid board with invitation templates and automated notifications
- Side-by-side bid comparison and historical tracking
- Seamless integration with scheduling and budgeting tools
Cons
- Full platform subscription required, no standalone bid tracking option
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features
- Pricing is custom and can be high for smaller teams focused only on bids
Best For
Custom builders and remodelers who need integrated bid tracking within full project management workflows.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically starting at $299/month for basic plans, scaling to $499+/month based on users, projects, and features.
JobTread
specializedConstruction CRM and management platform that enables bid tracking, subcontractor communication, and job awarding.
Integrated Subcontractor Bid Portal for secure, real-time bid submissions and automated comparisons
JobTread is a cloud-based construction management software tailored for contractors and subcontractors, offering robust tools for bid tracking, job costing, scheduling, and financial management. It enables users to send invitations to bid, collect subcontractor proposals, compare bids side-by-side, and award contracts directly within the platform. The software integrates bid data seamlessly with project estimates and ongoing job tracking, providing a unified workflow from bidding to completion.
Pros
- Centralized bid board for easy invitation, submission, and comparison of subcontractor bids
- Subcontractor portal for real-time collaboration and document sharing
- Strong integration with estimating and job costing for accurate bid-to-project transitions
Cons
- Not a standalone bid tracking tool, requiring adoption of full suite for best results
- Limited advanced bid analytics compared to specialized platforms
- Pricing can escalate quickly for teams needing multiple users or premium features
Best For
Small to mid-sized general contractors and subcontractors managing multiple bids alongside full project workflows.
Pricing
Starts at $165/month for Essentials plan (billed annually), with Pro at $295/month and custom Enterprise pricing.
eSUB
enterpriseCloud-based subcontractor management system with bid tracking, field productivity, and project oversight features.
Trade Bid Board for centralized invitation, submission, and comparison of subcontractor bids directly in the platform
eSUB is a cloud-based construction management platform tailored specifically for subcontractors, offering tools for project planning, time tracking, document management, and cost control. In the context of subcontractor bid tracking, it provides features like bid invitation management, bid comparison, and integration with project procurement workflows to streamline the bidding process. While not exclusively a bid tracking tool, it embeds bid management within its broader subcontractor operations suite for end-to-end visibility.
Pros
- Specialized for subcontractor workflows with strong mobile accessibility for field teams
- Robust integration of bid tracking with project scheduling and cost management
- Real-time collaboration tools for bid reviews and approvals
Cons
- Not a dedicated bid-only platform, so it may feel bloated for simple bid tracking needs
- Steep learning curve for users new to comprehensive construction software
- Pricing lacks transparency and can be costly for smaller operations
Best For
Mid-sized subcontractors or general contractors who need integrated bid tracking within full project lifecycle management.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically starting at $500/month for basic plans with per-user or per-project add-ons.
Foundation Software
enterpriseConstruction accounting software integrated with estimating and bid management for subcontractor tracking.
Automatic conversion of winning bids into subcontracts with real-time job cost updates
Foundation Software is a comprehensive construction accounting platform with integrated tools for subcontractor bid tracking within its job costing and project management modules. It allows users to invite subcontractors, collect bids, perform side-by-side comparisons, and convert awarded bids into enforceable contracts and purchase orders. While robust for financial integration, it functions more as an accounting-centric system rather than a dedicated bid management tool.
Pros
- Seamless integration of bids into accounting and subcontract commitments
- Strong reporting and analytics for bid analysis and cost control
- Handles multi-job bid tracking with document management
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to its accounting-focused interface
- Limited advanced bid invitation and collaboration tools compared to specialized platforms
- Customization requires IT support or consultants
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms seeking integrated accounting with basic subcontractor bid tracking capabilities.
Pricing
Custom pricing based on modules and company size; typically $10,000+ annually for SaaS or hosted plans, with on-premise options available.
Conclusion
Among the reviewed subcontractor bid tracking tools, BuildingConnected emerges as the top choice, excelling in specialized management of bid invitations, submissions, comparisons, and awards. Procore and ConstructConnect follow closely, offering robust alternatives: Procore with comprehensive construction management and ConstructConnect with bid tracking paired with takeoffs and lead management. These platforms demonstrate the diversity of tools available, each designed to streamline subcontractor processes in unique ways.
To optimize your subcontractor bid workflow, begin with BuildingConnected's specialized features. For different needs, explore Procore's comprehensive tools or ConstructConnect's bid tracking with takeoffs—either way, investing in a top-tier platform enhances efficiency and clarity.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison