Quick Overview
- 1#1: BuildingConnected - Streamlines the subcontractor bidding process by managing invitations to bid, submissions, qualifications, and awards between general contractors and subs.
- 2#2: Procore - Offers a comprehensive bid board and management tools within its construction platform to help subcontractors receive invites and submit competitive bids.
- 3#3: ConstructConnect - Provides project leads, digital takeoffs, estimating, and bidding software to help subcontractors discover opportunities and prepare winning bids.
- 4#4: STACK - Cloud-based digital takeoff and estimating platform designed for subcontractors to quickly assemble accurate bids from blueprints.
- 5#5: Bridgit - Subcontractor collaboration platform with bid management features to track opportunities, submit bids, and manage preconstruction workflows.
- 6#6: PlanSwift - On-screen digital takeoff and estimating software that enables subcontractors to perform fast, precise quantity takeoffs for bid preparation.
- 7#7: Bluebeam Revu - Powerful PDF markup and takeoff tool used by subcontractors for accurate quantity extraction and collaboration on bid documents.
- 8#8: Sage Estimating - Robust estimating software with extensive cost databases to help subcontractors create detailed and competitive bid estimates.
- 9#9: HCSS HeavyBid - Specialized bidding and estimating solution for heavy construction subcontractors, focusing on job costing and bid analysis.
- 10#10: Trimble eTakeoff - Computer-aided takeoff software that assists subcontractors in performing detailed quantity takeoffs from plans for bid estimation.
Tools were chosen based on core features (e.g., bid management, estimating, takeoff), performance reliability, user experience, and value, ensuring they deliver tangible benefits for modern subcontractors.
Comparison Table
Selecting the right subcontractor bidding software is key to enhancing efficiency and competitiveness in construction; this comparison table explores top tools like BuildingConnected, Procore, ConstructConnect, STACK, Bridgit, and more, outlining their core features, usability, and key differentiators. Readers will discover how to match software capabilities with their specific needs, enabling smoother bidding processes and improved project success.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | BuildingConnected Streamlines the subcontractor bidding process by managing invitations to bid, submissions, qualifications, and awards between general contractors and subs. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 2 | Procore Offers a comprehensive bid board and management tools within its construction platform to help subcontractors receive invites and submit competitive bids. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 3 | ConstructConnect Provides project leads, digital takeoffs, estimating, and bidding software to help subcontractors discover opportunities and prepare winning bids. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 4 | STACK Cloud-based digital takeoff and estimating platform designed for subcontractors to quickly assemble accurate bids from blueprints. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 5 | Bridgit Subcontractor collaboration platform with bid management features to track opportunities, submit bids, and manage preconstruction workflows. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 6 | PlanSwift On-screen digital takeoff and estimating software that enables subcontractors to perform fast, precise quantity takeoffs for bid preparation. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 7 | Bluebeam Revu Powerful PDF markup and takeoff tool used by subcontractors for accurate quantity extraction and collaboration on bid documents. | specialized | 7.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 6.8/10 |
| 8 | Sage Estimating Robust estimating software with extensive cost databases to help subcontractors create detailed and competitive bid estimates. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 9 | HCSS HeavyBid Specialized bidding and estimating solution for heavy construction subcontractors, focusing on job costing and bid analysis. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.4/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 10 | Trimble eTakeoff Computer-aided takeoff software that assists subcontractors in performing detailed quantity takeoffs from plans for bid estimation. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.6/10 |
Streamlines the subcontractor bidding process by managing invitations to bid, submissions, qualifications, and awards between general contractors and subs.
Offers a comprehensive bid board and management tools within its construction platform to help subcontractors receive invites and submit competitive bids.
Provides project leads, digital takeoffs, estimating, and bidding software to help subcontractors discover opportunities and prepare winning bids.
Cloud-based digital takeoff and estimating platform designed for subcontractors to quickly assemble accurate bids from blueprints.
Subcontractor collaboration platform with bid management features to track opportunities, submit bids, and manage preconstruction workflows.
On-screen digital takeoff and estimating software that enables subcontractors to perform fast, precise quantity takeoffs for bid preparation.
Powerful PDF markup and takeoff tool used by subcontractors for accurate quantity extraction and collaboration on bid documents.
Robust estimating software with extensive cost databases to help subcontractors create detailed and competitive bid estimates.
Specialized bidding and estimating solution for heavy construction subcontractors, focusing on job costing and bid analysis.
Computer-aided takeoff software that assists subcontractors in performing detailed quantity takeoffs from plans for bid estimation.
BuildingConnected
enterpriseStreamlines the subcontractor bidding process by managing invitations to bid, submissions, qualifications, and awards between general contractors and subs.
Comprehensive subcontractor qualification database with automated matching and vetting for faster, more reliable bid sourcing
BuildingConnected is a premier subcontractor bidding platform designed to streamline the bid management process for general contractors by connecting them with a vast network of pre-qualified subcontractors. It offers tools like Bid Board Pro for sending invitations to bid (ITBs), tracking responses, and leveling bids, alongside subcontractor qualification and mobile access. Acquired by Autodesk, it excels in large-scale projects with robust integrations to Procore, PlanGrid, and other construction software.
Pros
- Massive database of over 500,000 verified subcontractors for quick sourcing
- Advanced bid leveling and comparison tools that save significant time
- Seamless integrations with Procore, Autodesk BIM 360, and other industry-leading platforms
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users and smaller teams
- Custom pricing can be expensive for low-volume users
- Limited customization options for niche bidding workflows
Best For
Large general contractors and construction managers handling high-volume, complex bidding processes across multiple projects.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing, typically starting at $500-$1,500/month for basic plans, scaling with project volume and advanced features.
Procore
enterpriseOffers a comprehensive bid board and management tools within its construction platform to help subcontractors receive invites and submit competitive bids.
Bid leveling and side-by-side comparison engine that automates analysis of subcontractor bids for apples-to-apples evaluations
Procore is a comprehensive cloud-based construction management platform with a dedicated Bidding tool tailored for subcontractor bidding processes. It enables general contractors to create bid packages, send invitations to bid (ITBs), collect subcontractor bids, perform side-by-side comparisons, and award contracts directly within the system. The software integrates bidding seamlessly with estimating, project management, financials, and document control, providing end-to-end workflow efficiency. Its robust analytics help in bid leveling and decision-making for competitive projects.
Pros
- Powerful bid management with automated ITBs, real-time bid collection, and advanced comparison tools
- Deep integration with Procore's full suite for seamless transition from bid to project execution
- Mobile app support and customizable templates for efficient subcontractor collaboration
Cons
- High cost with custom quote-based pricing that can be prohibitive for small firms
- Steep learning curve due to the platform's extensive features and depth
- Best value requires adopting multiple Procore modules, making it less ideal for standalone bidding
Best For
Mid-to-large general contractors managing complex, high-volume subcontractor bidding across multiple projects who benefit from integrated construction management.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically starting at $375-$600 per user per year plus project volume fees; minimums often exceed $5,000 annually.
ConstructConnect
enterpriseProvides project leads, digital takeoffs, estimating, and bidding software to help subcontractors discover opportunities and prepare winning bids.
Exclusive access to 700,000+ private construction projects annually, sourced directly from general contractors
ConstructConnect is a leading platform for subcontractors seeking bidding opportunities in the construction industry, offering access to an extensive database of over 700,000 private and public projects annually across North America. It provides tools for searching leads, managing bids, downloading plans and specs from a digital planroom, and networking with general contractors. The software streamlines the pre-bid process with features like ITB tracking, quantity takeoff integration, and electronic bid submissions.
Pros
- Vast database of private project leads not available on public sites
- Comprehensive bid management and planroom access
- Strong integrations with popular estimating and takeoff software
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to feature depth
- Pricing can be high for smaller subcontractors
- Occasional complaints about lead quality or duplicates
Best For
Mid-to-large commercial subcontractors focused on proactive lead generation and efficient bid management across multiple trades.
Pricing
Tiered subscriptions (e.g., Essential, Professional, Enterprise) starting around $400-$600/month annually; custom quotes for advanced features.
STACK
specializedCloud-based digital takeoff and estimating platform designed for subcontractors to quickly assemble accurate bids from blueprints.
Free, unlimited digital takeoffs from PDFs with sub-millimeter accuracy and automatic scaling
STACK (stackct.com) is a cloud-based takeoff and estimating platform tailored for construction subcontractors, enabling precise digital measurements from PDF plans and seamless integration with Excel for bid preparation. It streamlines the bidding process by automating quantity takeoffs, generating reports, and facilitating team collaboration on projects. Ideal for trade contractors, it supports both free takeoff tools and paid estimating features to help secure more bids efficiently.
Pros
- Free unlimited takeoff tool for PDF plans reduces entry barriers
- Seamless Excel integration for customizable estimating
- Cloud collaboration allows real-time team access and bidding workflows
Cons
- Limited advanced reporting and analytics compared to enterprise tools
- Steeper learning curve for complex assemblies and custom formulas
- Fewer integrations with accounting or project management software
Best For
Subcontractors and trade contractors focused on quick, accurate takeoffs and Excel-based bidding without needing full enterprise suites.
Pricing
Free for unlimited takeoffs; Pro plan at $2,495/year per user for estimating; Enterprise custom pricing.
Bridgit
specializedSubcontractor collaboration platform with bid management features to track opportunities, submit bids, and manage preconstruction workflows.
Bid leveling tool that automatically normalizes and compares subcontractor bids on standardized criteria for fair, data-driven awards
Bridgit Bid is a subcontractor management platform tailored for construction general contractors, focusing on streamlining the bidding process from invitation to award. It enables users to maintain a qualified subcontractor database, solicit bids electronically, compare proposals side-by-side with standardized leveling tools, and track historical performance data. The software integrates bidding with capacity planning to help forecast subcontractor availability across projects.
Pros
- Centralized subcontractor database with qualification and performance tracking
- Bid leveling and side-by-side comparison for objective evaluation
- Integration with capacity planning for better resource forecasting
Cons
- Pricing is enterprise-focused and opaque without a sales quote
- Moderate learning curve for full utilization of advanced analytics
- Limited standalone use without broader Bridgit ecosystem
Best For
Mid-to-large general contractors handling complex, multi-project subcontractor bidding and qualification needs.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing via sales quote; typically subscription-based starting at several thousand dollars annually depending on user count and projects.
PlanSwift
specializedOn-screen digital takeoff and estimating software that enables subcontractors to perform fast, precise quantity takeoffs for bid preparation.
Drag-and-drop assemblies that automatically calculate quantities and costs as shapes are placed on digital plans
PlanSwift is a desktop-based digital takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction subcontractors to accelerate the bidding process by digitizing blueprints and automating quantity calculations. It allows users to import PDFs, CAD files, or scanned plans, perform point-and-click measurements, and assemble bids using pre-built or custom databases of materials, labor, and costs. The software generates detailed reports and integrates with tools like Excel and QuickBooks, making it a powerhouse for accurate, fast subcontractor estimates.
Pros
- Exceptionally fast point-and-click digital takeoffs from plans
- Highly customizable assemblies and databases for precise bidding
- Robust integrations with Excel, QuickBooks, and other estimating tools
Cons
- Desktop-only software with no cloud or mobile access
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- High upfront perpetual license cost without flexible subscription options
Best For
Experienced subcontractors managing high-volume bids who prioritize speed and accuracy in digital plan takeoffs over cloud collaboration.
Pricing
Perpetual license starting at $1,749 per user, plus optional annual maintenance fees around 20% of license cost.
Bluebeam Revu
specializedPowerful PDF markup and takeoff tool used by subcontractors for accurate quantity extraction and collaboration on bid documents.
Quantity Link, which dynamically links PDF measurements to Excel for instant, editable bid quantity updates
Bluebeam Revu is a robust PDF editing and markup software tailored for the AEC industry, enabling precise digital takeoffs, measurements, and annotations on construction drawings. For subcontractor bidding, it shines in quantity extraction from PDFs, supporting accurate material and labor estimates through tools like measurement logging and Excel integration. While not a full end-to-end bidding platform, it serves as a critical component in the bidding workflow when paired with estimating software.
Pros
- Highly accurate digital takeoff and measurement tools with customizable scales
- Quantity Link for seamless, real-time data export to Excel for bidding calculations
- Studio collaboration for sharing marked-up plans with estimators and teams
Cons
- Lacks built-in bid management, subcontractor outreach, or proposal generation features
- Subscription pricing adds up for small firms without full bidding needs
- Advanced features require significant training for non-expert users
Best For
Subcontractors specializing in digital plan takeoffs who integrate with separate estimating and bidding tools.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at $249/user (Basics), $349 (Core), up to $600+ (eXtreme); perpetual licenses also available from $215-$700.
Sage Estimating
enterpriseRobust estimating software with extensive cost databases to help subcontractors create detailed and competitive bid estimates.
Proprietary Visual Assemblies database that allows drag-and-drop building of complex estimates with pre-built, industry-standard components
Sage Estimating is a robust construction estimating software from Sage that helps subcontractors create accurate, detailed bids using digital takeoffs and a vast national cost database. It supports customizable assemblies, itemized cost breakdowns, and integration with accounting systems for streamlined workflows. Ideal for managing complex subcontractor bidding processes from quantity takeoff to final bid submission.
Pros
- Comprehensive national cost database for accurate pricing
- Powerful customizable assemblies and takeoff tools
- Strong integration with Sage 300 accounting and project management
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Higher cost may not suit small subcontractors
- Interface feels dated compared to modern cloud-native tools
Best For
Mid-sized to large subcontractors handling complex, high-value bids who need enterprise-grade estimating with accounting integration.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing, typically $5,000-$15,000 annually based on users, modules, and deployment (cloud or on-premise); contact Sage for quote.
HCSS HeavyBid
specializedSpecialized bidding and estimating solution for heavy construction subcontractors, focusing on job costing and bid analysis.
Advanced bid leveling and subcontractor comparison engine that automatically normalizes and ranks bids for optimal selection.
HCSS HeavyBid is a robust estimating and bidding software tailored for heavy construction, enabling detailed takeoffs, cost calculations, and bid preparation for complex projects. It excels in managing subcontractor bids through invitation, tabulation, and analysis features, helping users compare and select the best subs efficiently. The platform integrates with accounting systems and other HCSS tools, streamlining preconstruction workflows for general contractors and subcontractors.
Pros
- Comprehensive subcontractor bid management and analysis tools
- Powerful item-based estimating with customizable assemblies
- Strong integrations with accounting and field management software
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface
- High cost may not suit small firms
- Primarily Windows-based with limited mobile capabilities
Best For
Large heavy civil construction subcontractors and general contractors managing multi-million-dollar bids that require detailed analysis and subcontractor coordination.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing, typically starting at $5,000-$15,000 annually depending on users, modules, and customizations.
Trimble eTakeoff
specializedComputer-aided takeoff software that assists subcontractors in performing detailed quantity takeoffs from plans for bid estimation.
Advanced assembly-based takeoffs that automatically calculate totals from grouped measurements
Trimble eTakeoff is a robust digital takeoff software tailored for construction estimators and subcontractors to perform precise quantity extractions from 2D plans, including PDFs, scans, and CAD files. It excels in measuring lengths, areas, counts, and volumes, enabling users to build detailed bid documents with customizable reports and assemblies. While focused primarily on takeoff rather than full estimating, it integrates well with Trimble's ecosystem for streamlined workflows in subcontractor bidding.
Pros
- Exceptionally accurate 2D takeoff tools for complex plans
- Customizable reports and export options for bidding
- Seamless integration with Trimble estimating software like Accubid
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Desktop-centric with limited mobile capabilities
- Higher pricing may not suit very small subcontractors
Best For
Mid-sized subcontractors and estimators handling detailed takeoffs from digital plans who value precision and Trimble ecosystem integration.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at around $1,800 per user for basic takeoff features, scaling up for advanced modules and multi-user licenses.
Conclusion
After examining the top 10 subcontractor bidding tools, BuildingConnected rightfully claims the top spot, streamlining every stage of the bidding process from invitations to submissions. Procore and ConstructConnect follow closely as strong alternatives; Procore offers a comprehensive platform within its construction ecosystem, while ConstructConnect excels with project leads and integrated estimating. Each tool addresses unique needs, but BuildingConnected stands unrivaled for its end-to-end management capabilities.
To elevate your bidding efficiency, start with BuildingConnected and experience seamless coordination between general contractors and subcontractors.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison