How Quantity Takeoff Software Is Changing the Way Contractors Estimate Projects

According to a report by Autodesk and FMI, 90% of contractors report experiencing cost impacts due to flawed project data, often resulting from inaccurate or incomplete takeoffs. 

Manual takeoff methods leave too much room for error and eat up too much time. That’s why contractors are turning to quantity takeoff software to automate and simplify the entire takeoff process.

Whether you’re working on rebar takeoffs for a high-rise or scoping complex MEP drawings with electrical takeoffs, quantity takeoff software can help you bid on more jobs without sacrificing quality and accuracy. 

Let’s take a closer look at how. 

What is Quantity Takeoff Software?

Quantity takeoff software is a digital solution that helps contractors and estimators rise above manual takeoffs. It automates the process of calculating material, labour, and equipment needs, leading to increased accuracy, bidding speed, and cost savings. 

Instead of using printed drawings, scale rulers, and markup tools, contractors can just upload PDFs, trace elements on-screen, and automatically calculate volumes, areas, and counts.

Even though quantity takeoff software makes things easier, modern tools are now taking it a step further. 

Software like Beam AI is automating the takeoff process to the point where it completely eliminates estimator effort.

With Beam AI automated takeoffs, construction teams can: 

• Save up to 90% of their takeoff time 

• Bid on 2x more jobs without expanding their team

• Get bid-ready, QA-checked outputs in 24-72 hours 

• Auto-detect addenda, streamlining revisions, and saving valuable hours

• Easily switch between automated & manual takeoff methods

Now, let’s take a look at how quantity takeoff software is helping contractors bid more jobs and increase revenue potential. 

1. Better Accuracy, Less Rework 

Manual takeoffs are prone to human error, especially on large or complex scopes. Quantity takeoff software ensures consistent accuracy by: 

• Autodetecting scope elements across plan sets 

• Flagging missing or duplicate counts 

• Maintaining a history of all measurements 

• Real-time data enables informed decision-making, accurate cost tracking, and effective resource management 

2. Better Productivity & Time Savings 

Traditional takeoff methods can take hours and even days for complex projects. With quantity takeoff software, estimators can measure, adjust, and submit quotes in a fraction of the time.

This frees up time to focus on other high-priority tasks, such as refining proposals, managing vendors, training, and developing business strategy. 

3. Improved Collaboration 

Cloud-based quantity takeoff software allows multiple team members to access and work on the same takeoff, fostering collaboration and minimizing miscommunication. 

All project stakeholders can access the latest versions of the takeoff, ensuring everyone is on the same page. Moreover, when clear and accurate quantity measurements are available, then communication and coordination between team members becomes easier.

4. Smarter Planning & Cost Control 

Accurate quantities are the foundation for smarter budgets and project planning. Quantity takeoff software helps teams:

• Allocate materials more efficiently

• Reduce over-ordering and on-site waste

• Improve vendor coordination and scheduling

It also enables clearer communication with clients and stakeholders, because every estimate is backed by a traceable, digital takeoff.

5. Scalability 

Quantity takeoff software can help you handle multiple takeoffs without sacrificing accuracy and increasing headcount. This helps construction businesses bid on more jobs, increase revenue potential, and support overall business growth.

The software can create customizable templates and reports, tailoring the software to specific needs and optimizing the estimation process. 

Before You Go 

Takeoffs and estimation do not have to be slow, tedious, and prone to error. Hence, quantity takeoff software is becoming essential in this highly competitive industry. 

Whether you're performing detailed rebar takeoffs or handling large-scale projects with electrical takeoff software, digital tools streamline the takeoff process from start to finish.

AI takeoff software like Beam AI enables GCs, suppliers, and subcontractors to generate accurate quantities across 15+ trades in a fraction of the time it used to take. This not only speeds up bidding but also leads to clearer estimates, better coordination with subs, and more confident project planning.