If you’ve ever found yourself buried in blueprints, highlighter in one hand and calculator in the other, chances are you’ve also muttered, “There has to be a better way.”
Spoiler alert: there is.
Digital takeoffs are transforming the way contractors, estimators and builders approach the bidding process. And if you’re still stuck with old-school methods, you’re not just wasting time – you’re probably leaving money on the table.
Let’s talk about how switching to digital takeoffs and the right estimating software (like Square Takeoff) can help you bid faster, smarter and with way less stress.
The problem with traditional bidding
Manual takeoffs are … well, manual. That means:
- Printing or plotting plans (cha-ching)
- Measuring line by line (hello, ruler fatigue)
- Flipping back and forth between pages
- Double-checking math (and still finding errors later)
- Scrambling to update quantities when the architect sends “just one more” revision
This process doesn’t just drain your time – it increases the chance of human error. And in construction, small mistakes can lead to big costs.
What are digital takeoffs?
Digital takeoffs let you perform measurements directly from digital blueprints on your computer or tablet. With the right estimating software, you can:
- Measure areas, lengths and volumes with a few clicks
- Instantly calculate material quantities and costs
- Save and reuse templates for repeat projects
- Easily make adjustments when plans change
- Share takeoffs with your team in real time
Translation? Less guesswork, more go time.
How digital takeoffs speed up the bidding process
Ready to win more jobs in less time? Here’s how digital takeoffs help you shift into high gear.
1. No more printing plans
With digital tools, you can upload PDFs or digital drawings directly – no trips to the print shop, no wasted paper and no oversized roll of plans taking up your front seat.
2. Faster measurements
Click, drag, done. Measuring with Square Takeoff is as easy as point and click. And bonus: it’s more accurate than the human eyeball.
3. Built-in calculations
When your takeoff is linked to pricing, you don’t need to break out the calculator or spreadsheet. Your estimating software does the math for you, instantly converting measurements into costs.
4. Templates and shortcuts
Do a lot of the same types of projects? You can create templates that speed up your takeoff process even more. It’s like having a fast-forward button for your bids.
5. Easy edits and revisions
When plans change (and they always do), it’s no sweat. With digital takeoffs, you can quickly adjust quantities without starting over. That means faster turnaround on updates and happier clients.
6. Work from anywhere
Whether you’re in the office, at home, or on-site, cloud-based estimating software like Square Takeoff lets you access your takeoffs from anywhere. All you need is a device and internet connection.
Why Square Takeoff?
There are plenty of tools out there, but Square Takeoff was designed with real contractors and estimators in mind. It’s built to be powerful – but also intuitive – so you don’t need to be a tech wizard to use it.
With Square Takeoff, you get:
- Easy-to-use interface (goodbye, 20-tab spreadsheets)
- Custom pricing databases
- Real-time collaboration tools
- Project management integration
- Fast, accurate takeoffs that make your bids stand out
Start bidding smarter today
The bidding process shouldn’t feel like a race against the clock. With digital takeoffs and smart estimating software like ours, you can move faster, bid more accurately and win more work – without burning yourself out.
Ready to see how much time you can save? Start your FREE 14-day trial of Square Takeoff today!