A quantity takeoff (or material takeoff) is the process of measuring and counting everything required to build a project from the drawings and specifications. It produces the quantities that the estimator then prices with labor, equipment, subcontract and overhead costs. Accurate quantities are the single biggest factor in an accurate bid.
Takeoff vs estimate
The takeoff answers “how much?” — square feet of wall, cubic yards of concrete, linear feet of conduit, count of doors. The estimate answers “how much will it cost?” by applying unit costs, productivity, markups and allowances. You can order a takeoff alone, or a complete priced estimate.
Methods of takeoff
- Manual takeoff: measuring printed drawings with a scale and tallying on worksheets.
- Digital (on-screen) takeoff: measuring PDF or CAD drawings in software such as PlanSwift or Bluebeam Revu, which calculates areas, lengths and counts and keeps a marked-up record.
- Model-based takeoff: extracting quantities from a BIM model, which still needs checking against the contract documents.
Units of measure
Use the unit the trade prices in: square feet (SF) for walls and finishes, linear feet (LF) for pipe and trim, cubic yards (CY) for concrete and earthwork, each (EA) for fixtures and devices, tons or pounds for steel and rebar, squares (SQ, 100 SF) for roofing and lump sum (LS) where appropriate. Keep conversions explicit.
Organizing the takeoff
Organize by CSI MasterFormat division, trade package or building area. A consistent structure makes review, alternates and bid leveling much easier, and lets you re-price when addenda change quantities. See our overview of CSI divisions 01–33.
Waste, overage and deductions
Waste factors reflect cuts, breakage and layout. They vary by material, pattern and installer; state them openly so they can be adjusted. Deduct openings only when the specification or your pricing practice calls for it, and add corners, returns and accessories that plan areas do not show.
Common takeoff errors
- Measuring from a superseded drawing revision or missing an addendum.
- Scale errors — always verify the drawing scale against a known dimension.
- Double-counting areas that appear on multiple sheets or details.
- Missing scope shown only in specifications, notes or schedules.
- Ignoring height, depth and thickness when converting area to volume.
- Leaving out alternates, allowances and unit-price quantities.
Quality control: a second review
Have a second estimator check totals against rules of thumb (for example, cost per square foot or concrete per square foot of slab) and trace a sample of counts back to the marked-up plans. At Bid Sharp every takeoff is reviewed before delivery.
Choosing the right level of detail
Conceptual estimates may use only gross areas. Detailed bid estimates need assembly-level takeoff with wall types, openings, finishes and accessories. The level of detail should match the stage of the design and the decision being made — and it should be stated in the estimate.
Takeoff and the bid form
Quantities for base bid, alternates and unit-price items should be kept separate and tied to the bid form lines. When the owner later adjusts unit prices, the original quantities remain traceable. Keep a record of the drawing revision used for every takeoff.
Order a takeoff
Bid Sharp's quantity takeoff services cover every CSI division with marked-up plans and Excel output. Upload your plans for a free quote.
Takeoff terminology quick reference
Gross area is the total measured area before deductions; net area is after deducting openings; waste is the allowance for cutting and breakage; overage covers extra material for repairs. Keep each shown separately so quantities remain easy to audit. See the glossary for more terms.
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Frequently asked questions
What is a material takeoff?
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A material takeoff is the measured list of quantities taken from the plans — areas, lengths, volumes and counts — that an estimator prices.
Which software is used for takeoffs?
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Estimators commonly use digital takeoff software such as PlanSwift and Bluebeam Revu, plus spreadsheets for pricing.
How accurate is a takeoff?
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Accuracy depends on drawing quality, scope clarity and review. A second-estimator check and traceable marked-up plans improve reliability.
Written by the Bid Sharp Estimating Team
Bid Sharp provides construction estimating, quantity takeoff, structural and permit drawings, shop drawings and scheduling for contractors across the United States. This article is general information, not legal or engineering advice.
