Top 5 Construction Estimating Services for Contractors
Have you ever struggled with inaccurate cost estimates that eat into your profits? Or spent hours crunching numbers only to lose bids to competitors with more precise calculations? Construction estimating services can be game-changers, helping contractors streamline their bidding process, reduce errors, and maximize profitability.
With so many options available, picking the right one can feel overwhelming—especially if you’re new to estimating software. That’s why we’ve done the heavy lifting for you! Below, we break down the top five construction estimating services that can help you work smarter, not harder, and win more projects.
1. STACK
Imagine having all your estimating tools in one place, accessible from anywhere—whether you’re at the job site, in the office, or working remotely. STACK is a cloud-based estimating powerhouse that gives contractors the ability to perform accurate takeoffs, generate cost estimates, and collaborate with their teams seamlessly. It comes with pre-built material databases and integrates smoothly with project management tools, helping you save time and eliminate guesswork. If you want to bid smarter and stay ahead of the competition, STACK is an excellent choice.
Key Features:
Cloud-Based Accessibility for Remote Work
Ever had to make last-minute changes to an estimate while away from the office? With STACK’s cloud-based platform, you can access your estimates from anywhere—whether you’re on-site, at home, or meeting with clients. This means no more scrambling to find files or worrying about outdated spreadsheets. Everything stays updated and accessible in real time.
Pre-Built and Customizable Material Databases
Say goodbye to manually entering material costs every time you create an estimate. STACK comes with an extensive pre-built material database, saving you time and effort. Plus, you can customize it to match your preferred suppliers and pricing, ensuring your estimates remain accurate and aligned with your business needs.
Seamless Integration with Project Management Tools
STACK doesn’t just help with estimating—it also integrates effortlessly with popular project management software like Procore and Buildertrend. This means your estimates can smoothly transition into actual projects, keeping everything streamlined and reducing the risk of miscommunication between your estimating and execution teams.
Collaboration Tools for Teams
Need your team to work together on an estimate? STACK allows multiple users to collaborate in real time, so estimators, project managers, and even clients can review estimates and make necessary adjustments instantly. This feature helps speed up approvals, ensures accuracy, and keeps everyone on the same page.
Best For: Whether you’re a general contractor juggling multiple projects, a subcontractor needing precise material calculations, or a home builder aiming for cost-effective planning, STACK has got you covered. Its powerful takeoff capabilities and seamless integrations make it an ideal choice for professionals who want accuracy, efficiency, and collaboration all in one place. If you’re looking to level up your estimating game and gain a competitive edge, STACK is definitely worth considering.
2. PlanSwift
Imagine being able to complete takeoffs with just a few clicks—PlanSwift makes it that simple! This user-friendly estimating software is perfect for contractors who want to measure blueprints digitally and calculate material costs quickly. With its drag-and-drop functionality, you can mark up plans effortlessly, saving time and reducing errors. Plus, its customizable templates and seamless Excel integration make it an excellent choice for contractors who need a flexible and efficient estimating solution. If you’re looking for an easy-to-use tool that speeds up the bidding process, PlanSwift is a must-have.
Key Features:
Drag-and-Drop Functionality for Easy Takeoffs
Tired of manually measuring and calculating takeoffs? PlanSwift’s drag-and-drop feature makes the process smooth and hassle-free. Just point, click, and drag on your digital blueprints to measure materials and labor costs in seconds. This means fewer errors and more accurate estimates, helping you win bids with confidence.
Customizable Templates for Different Project Types
No two projects are the same, and that’s where PlanSwift’s customizable templates come in handy. Whether you’re working on residential, commercial, or specialty projects, you can create and reuse templates that fit your specific needs. This saves time and ensures consistency across all your estimates.
Quick Material and Labor Cost Calculations
PlanSwift takes the guesswork out of cost estimation. With real-time calculations, you can input material and labor costs, and the software will instantly generate an accurate estimate. This feature is perfect for contractors who need to adjust pricing on the go or quickly compare different scenarios.
Integration with Excel and Other Software
Already using Excel or other project management tools? No problem! PlanSwift integrates seamlessly with Excel, allowing you to export estimates, modify data, and create detailed reports with ease. This connectivity ensures that your estimating workflow stays efficient and adaptable to your business processes.
Best For: Contractors who need a user-friendly solution for performing digital takeoffs and cost estimation.
3. ProEst
Picture a powerful estimating tool that not only crunches numbers but also streamlines your entire bidding process—ProEst does just that! Designed for mid-sized to large construction firms, this cloud-based software offers a centralized database, ensuring that your pricing and labor costs stay accurate and up to date. With its robust integration capabilities, you can connect ProEst with accounting and project management tools, making the transition from estimation to execution seamless. If you’re looking for a data-driven solution that helps you analyze costs, generate reports, and boost efficiency, ProEst is a solid choice.
Key Features:
Cloud-Based Platform for Easy Access
Gone are the days of being tied to a single office computer for estimating. With ProEst’s cloud-based system, you can access your estimates from anywhere, whether you’re in the field, at home, or on the go. This flexibility ensures that you stay connected to your data and can make real-time updates whenever necessary.
Integration with Accounting and Project Management Tools
Managing costs effectively means having seamless communication between estimating, accounting, and project management teams. ProEst integrates with popular platforms like QuickBooks, Procore, and Sage, ensuring smooth data flow and reducing duplicate entries. This integration helps keep financials accurate and projects running smoothly from bid to completion.
Detailed Cost Analysis and Reporting Features
ProEst doesn’t just generate estimates—it helps you analyze costs in detail. With built-in reporting features, you can break down material, labor, and overhead costs, helping you identify potential savings and improve profitability. These insights allow contractors to make data-driven decisions that enhance efficiency and competitiveness.
Centralized Database for Pricing and Labor Costs
Keeping up with fluctuating material prices and labor costs can be a challenge. ProEst simplifies this by offering a centralized, up-to-date database that ensures accuracy in your estimates. You can customize pricing based on suppliers, location, and project type, making it easier to maintain consistency and precision across all your bids.
Best For: If you’re running a mid-sized to large construction firm and need an estimating solution that grows with your business, ProEst is an excellent choice. Its advanced reporting tools and seamless integrations make it perfect for firms that require detailed cost analysis, streamlined workflows, and collaboration across multiple teams. Whether you’re bidding on large-scale projects or managing multiple estimates at once, ProEst helps you stay organized and competitive in the industry.
4. Clear Estimates
Ever wish estimating could be as easy as plugging in a few details and getting an accurate cost breakdown? That’s exactly what Clear Estimates offers! Designed for small to mid-sized contractors, this software takes the complexity out of cost estimation with its pre-loaded material and labor database. Whether you’re a remodeler, handyman, or general contractor, Clear Estimates allows you to generate professional, detailed estimates in minutes—helping you win more bids and keep projects profitable. Clear Estimates is ideal for small to mid-sized contractors who need an affordable yet robust estimating solution.
Key Features:
Pre-Loaded Database with Material and Labor Costs
Imagine having instant access to a well-organized database of up-to-date material and labor costs—no more flipping through supplier catalogs or guessing pricing! Clear Estimates comes pre-loaded with an extensive database, making it easy to generate accurate estimates without the hassle of manually entering costs for every project.
Quick Estimate Generation with Customizable Templates
Tired of starting from scratch every time you create a new estimate? With Clear Estimates, you can use pre-built templates tailored for different project types, from kitchen remodels to full home renovations. These templates not only save time but also ensure consistency across all your estimates, making them look professional and well-structured.
Integration with QuickBooks for Seamless Invoicing
Managing estimates and invoices separately can be a headache, but Clear Estimates eliminates that problem by integrating seamlessly with QuickBooks. Once your estimate is finalized, you can quickly convert it into an invoice without manually re-entering data, keeping your workflow smooth and efficient.
Easy-to-Use Interface for Beginners
Not a tech expert? No problem! Clear Estimates is designed with simplicity in mind, featuring an intuitive interface that makes navigating the software a breeze. Whether you’re a seasoned contractor or just starting out, you’ll find it easy to create estimates, adjust pricing, and generate professional reports with minimal effort.
Best For: If you’re a small contractor, remodeler, or handyman looking for an easy-to-use and budget-friendly estimating solution, Clear Estimates is a fantastic choice. It’s perfect for those who want to create professional, accurate estimates without getting bogged down by complex software. With its pre-loaded cost database, QuickBooks integration, and user-friendly interface, it simplifies estimating so you can focus on growing your business and winning more jobs.
5. Esticom
Struggling with manual takeoffs and inaccurate estimates? Esticom has your back! This cloud-based estimating and takeoff solution is built specifically for trade contractors, making it easy to measure blueprints, calculate material costs, and generate precise bids—all in one place. Whether you’re in electrical, plumbing, HVAC, or another specialty trade, Esticom streamlines the estimating process with an intuitive interface and real-time collaboration features, helping you work smarter and win more projects. Esticom is a cloud-based estimating and takeoff solution designed specifically for trade contractors.
Key Features:
Intuitive Interface for Quick Learning
No one likes a steep learning curve, especially when time is money. Esticom is designed with simplicity in mind, making it easy for contractors to navigate and start creating estimates right away. Whether you’re new to estimating software or an experienced contractor looking for efficiency, Esticom ensures a smooth user experience without the frustration of complex setups.
Integrated Takeoff and Estimating Tools
Forget switching between different platforms for takeoffs and estimates—Esticom combines both in one streamlined solution. You can upload blueprints, measure areas, and automatically convert takeoff data into detailed cost estimates. This all-in-one functionality not only saves time but also improves accuracy, helping you submit competitive bids with confidence.
Cost Database with Customizable Pricing
Material prices fluctuate, and every contractor has preferred suppliers. Esticom’s built-in cost database allows you to adjust pricing based on real-time market rates and customize it to fit your specific vendor costs. This means no more guesswork—just precise estimates that reflect current material and labor expenses.
Cloud-Based Collaboration for Teams
If you’re working with a team, Esticom makes collaboration effortless. Since it’s cloud-based, multiple users can access and work on estimates in real time from different locations. This feature is perfect for businesses with remote teams or contractors who need to coordinate with estimators, project managers, and clients seamlessly.
Best For: Electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and specialty contractors who need an estimating tool tailored to their trade.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right construction estimating service depends on your specific needs, budget, and project size. If you need an all-in-one solution, STACK or ProEst might be your best bet. For contractors looking for user-friendly and cost-effective options, PlanSwift or Clear Estimates are excellent choices. And if you specialize in trade work, Esticom offers tailored estimating features. By investing in the right estimating software, you can save time, reduce errors, and boost your profitability.
Which construction estimating service do you use? Share your thoughts in the comments below!