PlanSwift takeoff services are for contractors and developers who want the speed of a digitized takeoff without tying up an estimator for two days. You send the plan set, specs, and any addenda; we build the takeoff in PlanSwift, then export it to Excel and PDF organized by CSI MasterFormat division. If you already run PlanSwift in-house, we can work in your file structure or deliver a clean takeoff you import. If you are comparing platforms, our Estimating Software We Work In page covers how PlanSwift differs from Bluebeam Takeoff Services and STACK & On-Screen Takeoff Services.
- Deliverable
- Excel estimate + marked-up PDF plans
- Organized by
- CSI MasterFormat section
- Turnaround
- 24–48 hours for most projects
- Pricing
- ZIP-code-adjusted material and labor pricing
- Software
- Bluebeam Revu, PlanSwift, RSMeans data
We use PlanSwift's digitizer and assemblies to measure directly from the PDF: slab areas, wall lengths, footing counts, pipe runs, duct runs, and device counts. Each quantity is tied to a drawing sheet reference so you can trace any number back to the plan. Waste factors, overhead, and labor can be added as separate lines or baked into unit costs depending on how you price. For residential and light commercial, we may also use RSMeans Cost Estimating data for ZIP-code-adjusted pricing.
Most takeoffs return in 24–48 hours; rush is available if your bid date is close. We mark up the plan set with color-coded overlays so you can see exactly what was measured and where. The deliverable is a working estimate, not a black box. If you are weighing outsourced construction estimating against adding headcount, the same file structure works for both. We also handle outsourced PlanSwift takeoff on IFC files when the model is issued alongside the PDF plans, and we tag quantities with cost codes so your pricing sheet drops straight into your bid package.
What our PlanSwift quantity takeoff covers
We take off all measurable scopes from the architectural, structural, civil, and MEP sheets, then organize them by CSI division. Each line item carries a quantity, unit, and sheet reference. We do not price the work unless you ask for a labor and material breakdown.
Concrete Takeoff
Slab areas, footing volumes, wall lengths, formwork LF, and rebar LB measured from plans.
CY · SF · LF · LBMasonry Takeoff
CMU and brick quantities in SF and M, with grout and reinforcement measured.
SF · M · CY · LBDrywall Takeoff
Gypsum board SF by assembly type, including 1-hour, 2-hour, and shaft wall.
SFRoofing Takeoff
Roofing area in squares, underlayment rolls, and flashing LF measured.
SQ · LFMechanical Takeoff
Ductwork LB and LF by gauge and size, plus insulation SF.
LB · LF · SFElectrical Takeoff
Conduit LF, wire LF by size, and device counts measured.
LF · EASitework Takeoff
Cut/fill CY, curb LF, asphalt SF, and striping LF measured.
CY · LF · SFStructural Steel Takeoff
Steel tonnage by member type and connection count measured.
TON · EAWhat every planswift takeoff takeoff includes
- Digitizer measurement of slab, wall, roof, and ceiling areas in SF
- Linear feet for footings, walls, piping, conduit, curb, and trim
- Counts for doors, windows, fixtures, equipment, columns, and footings
- Concrete volume in CY with formwork LF and rebar LB
- Structural steel tonnage by member type and connection count
- CMU and brick quantities in SF and M with grout and reinforcement
- Gypsum board SF by assembly type (1-hour, 2-hour, shaft wall)
- Roofing area in squares with underlayment rolls and flashing LF
- Ductwork LB and LF by gauge and size, plus insulation SF
- Electrical conduit LF, wire LF by size, and device counts
- Sitework cut/fill CY, curb LF, asphalt SF, and striping LF
- Marked-up plan set with color-coded overlays and sheet references
How we build an outsourced PlanSwift takeoff
- Plan set intake and sheet indexWe log every sheet in the set — architectural, structural, civil, mechanical, electrical, plumbing — and note the latest revision date. If addenda are present, we replace superseded sheets before digitizing. You get a sheet index in the Excel file so you can confirm nothing was missed. This step also flags missing sheets that affect scope, such as a missing door schedule or foundation plan, so you can request them before we start measuring.
- Digitizer setup and scale checkWe import the PDF into PlanSwift, set the scale from the graphic scale bar or a known dimension, and verify against a second sheet. If the scale is off, we correct it before measuring. This step prevents the most common takeoff error: quantities that are uniformly wrong because the scale was misread. We also check that the PDF is vector, not scanned, because a raster image can shift dimensions by 1–2% and throw off large area measurements.
- Assembly build for repeated conditionsFor repetitive scopes — typical wall types, door types, footing types — we build assemblies in PlanSwift that combine multiple line items into one measurement. A 2-hour gypsum board assembly, for example, includes board, studs, track, insulation, and firestopping. This reduces mouse clicks and keeps the takeoff consistent across the project. We also link assemblies to CSI codes so the export lands in the right division without manual sorting.
- Measurement by CSI divisionWe measure in a set sequence: sitework, concrete, masonry, steel, carpentry, thermal and moisture, openings, finishes, specialties, equipment, plumbing, HVAC, electrical. Each measurement is color-coded on the plan set. We check wall heights against section details and door counts against the door schedule before moving to the next division. This sequence catches cross-division dependencies, such as blocking in Division 06 that supports Division 08 hardware.
- Waste, overlap, and waste-factor applicationWe apply waste factors as separate lines so you can adjust them. Typical factors: 5–10% on tile, 10% on roofing, 5–8% on flooring, 2–5% on gypsum board. We also deduct openings over 10 SF from wall areas and add back corner waste where the detail requires it. For concrete, we note the difference between formwork contact area and volume, and we do not double-count formwork at inside corners.
- Export and markup packageThe takeoff exports to Excel with columns for CSI code, description, quantity, unit, and sheet reference. The PDF includes the marked-up plan set with color-coded overlays. We also provide a summary tab by division so you can roll up costs quickly. The Excel file uses formulas so you can change a waste factor and see the total update without re-entering quantities.
- Revision delta on addendaIf addenda change dimensions or details after the initial takeoff, we measure only the delta and provide a change log. This keeps your bid current without re-measuring the entire project. The change log shows old quantity, new quantity, and difference by line item. We also flag any new scope introduced by the addendum, such as added equipment or revised wall types, so you can price it separately.
What we need from you
- Plan setArchitectural, structural, civil, and MEP sheets in PDF. Vector PDFs scale more accurately than scanned images.
- SpecificationsProject manual or spec sections so we can match assembly types, material grades, and installation requirements.
- AddendaAny issued addenda or bulletins that change dimensions, details, or schedules. We replace superseded sheets.
- Scope listA list of divisions you want us to measure, especially if you are subcontracting and only need your trade.
- Unit preferencesIf your pricing format uses specific units — SFCA for formwork, MBF for lumber — tell us and we will convert.
- Bid dateYour deadline so we can schedule the takeoff and flag any rush charges before we start.
Sample PlanSwift material takeoff format
This is an illustrative excerpt from a mid-size commercial project. Quantities are rounded and do not include waste factors.
| Section | Line item | Qty | Unit | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 03 30 00 | Slab-on-grade, 6" thick, 4,000 psi | 18,400 | SF | S-101 |
| 03 20 00 | Rebar, #4, slab reinforcing, 12" o.c. each way | 12,800 | LB | S-101 |
| 04 20 00 | CMU wall, 8" normal weight, grouted at 32" o.c. | 6,200 | SF | A-201 |
| 09 21 00 | Gypsum board, 5/8" Type X, 1-hour assembly | 14,500 | SF | A-301 |
| 23 31 00 | Ductwork, galvanized, 24" × 12", 20 gauge | 3,400 | LB | M-401 |
| 26 05 00 | Conduit, EMT, 3/4" | 2,100 | LF | E-501 |
| 05 12 00 | Structural steel, W12×26 beams | 8,400 | LB | S-301 |
| 08 11 13 | Hollow metal door frame, 3'-0" × 7'-0" | 42 | EA | A-601 |
| 09 30 00 | Ceramic tile, floor, 12" × 12" | 1,850 | SF | A-701 |
| 22 11 00 | Pipe, Type L copper, 1" | 620 | LF | P-801 |
| 31 23 00 | Trench excavation, 4' deep | 380 | CY | C-101 |
| 26 51 00 | Light fixture, 2' × 4' LED, recessed | 96 | EA | E-601 |
Units of measure in a PlanSwift takeoff
PlanSwift measures in the units native to each trade. We convert to the units your pricing format expects.
| Item | Unit | How it's measured |
|---|---|---|
| Slab-on-grade | SF | Area measured at the inside face of perimeter forms, excluding openings over 10 SF |
| Continuous footing | LF | Centerline length along foundation plan, with cross-section dimensions from details |
| Spread footing | EA | Count from foundation plan, with size and depth noted from schedule |
| Concrete wall | SF | Elevation area from top of footing to underside of framing, minus openings |
| Structural steel | TON | Member weight from shape tables, plus connection plate and bolt weight |
| CMU wall | SF | Net area from floor to underside of deck, minus openings, by thickness |
| Gypsum board | SF | Wall and ceiling area by assembly type, with 10% waste factor applied separately |
| Ductwork | LB | Weight from gauge and size tables, plus insulation SF and hanger count |
| Pipe | LF | Centerline run from plan, by material and diameter, plus fittings count |
| Conduit | LF | Centerline run from electrical plan, by trade size and type |
| Asphalt paving | TON | Area × thickness × unit weight, with compaction factor noted |
| Paint | GAL | Area divided by coverage rate from manufacturer data, by coat |
Worked example: gypsum board takeoff for a small office fit-out
This example walks through a gypsum board takeoff for a 2,000 SF office fit-out. Dimensions are illustrative and do not represent any specific project. The takeoff follows CSI Division 09 21 00 and 09 29 00. We measure wall area, deduct openings, add waste, and convert to sheets.
Step 1: Measure wall lengths and heights
- From the floor plan, measure interior partition lengths: 320 LF.
- Wall height: 10'-0" from finished floor to underside of deck (confirmed on section A-401).
- Gross wall area = 320 LF × 10 FT = 3,200 SF.
Step 2: Deduct openings
- Door openings: 6 doors, each 3'-0" × 7'-0" = 21 SF each. Total = 126 SF.
- Window openings: 4 windows, each 4'-0" × 5'-0" = 20 SF each. Total = 80 SF.
- Total deductions = 206 SF.
- Net wall area = 3,200 SF − 206 SF = 2,994 SF.
Step 3: Identify wall types and assemblies
- Type A: 5/8" Type X gypsum board on both sides of 3-5/8" metal studs, 1-hour rated. Area: 1,800 SF (net).
- Type B: 5/8" moisture-resistant gypsum board on one side, 5/8" regular on the other, 2-hour rated. Area: 1,194 SF (net).
- Total net area = 2,994 SF.
Step 4: Apply waste factor
- Typical waste for gypsum board: 10% (industry standard for cutoffs and damage).
- Type A waste = 1,800 SF × 0.10 = 180 SF.
- Type B waste = 1,194 SF × 0.10 = 119.4 SF.
- Total with waste = 2,994 SF + 299.4 SF = 3,293.4 SF.
Step 5: Convert to sheets
- Standard sheet size: 4' × 12' = 48 SF per sheet.
- Type A sheets = (1,800 + 180) ÷ 48 = 41.25 → 42 sheets.
- Type B sheets = (1,194 + 119.4) ÷ 48 = 27.36 → 28 sheets.
- Total sheets = 70 sheets.
Step 6: Add accessories
- Joint compound: estimate 1 gallon per 100 SF of board. 3,293 SF ÷ 100 = 33 gallons.
- Tape: 1 roll per 500 SF. 3,293 ÷ 500 = 7 rolls.
- Screws: 1 box per 1,000 SF. 3,293 ÷ 1,000 = 4 boxes.
Step 7: Check for missing items
- Blocking at fire-rated penetrations: 12 locations (from wall type details).
- Corner bead: 320 LF of outside corners (measured from plan).
- Acoustical sealant: 320 LF at top and bottom plates.
We deliver this takeoff in Excel with separate lines for board, waste, joint compound, tape, screws, corner bead, and sealant, each with a sheet reference. The waste factor is a separate line so you can adjust it to your pricing method.
What drives the cost of PlanSwift takeoff outsourcing
Relative impact on a typical estimate for this trade, based on estimator judgment. Select a bar for details.
Sheet count and complexity
A 40-sheet set with dense MEP plans takes longer than a 10-sheet residential set. We price by the number of sheets that require measurement, not by project value. A sheet with a single floor plan and a few details is faster to measure than a sheet with overlapped architectural, structural, and MEP backgrounds that require layer isolation.
A 40-sheet set with dense MEP plans takes longer than a 10-sheet residential set. We price by the number of sheets that require measurement, not by project value. A sheet with a single floor plan and a few details is faster to measure than a sheet with overlapped architectural, structural, and MEP backgrounds that require layer isolation.
If you only need Division 09 finishes, the takeoff is faster than a full architectural, structural, and MEP takeoff. We scope the work to the divisions you request. A single-division takeoff still includes the same sheet references and waste lines, but we skip the setup time for assemblies outside your scope.
Projects with many unique wall types, door types, or equipment schedules require more assembly setup. We build assemblies once and reuse them across the project. A building with 15 wall types takes longer to set up than one with 4, because each assembly needs its own layer, CSI code, and component list before measurement begins.
Addenda that change dimensions or details require a delta takeoff. We measure only the changed areas, but the change log adds time. If an addendum replaces a floor plan, we compare the old and new sheets, measure the delta, and update the affected assemblies without re-measuring unchanged areas.
Standard turnaround is 24–48 hours for most projects. Rush turnaround is available and priced higher because we reassign staff to meet your bid date. Rush work is scheduled in the order received, and we confirm the deadline before starting so you know whether the date is achievable.
A conceptual takeoff for budgeting may only need major quantities, while a bid-level takeoff needs every line item, including blocking, sealants, and hangers. We adjust the measurement depth to match your purpose. Bid-level takeoffs include sheet references for each line so you can trace any quantity back to the plan.
Vector PDFs scale accurately and allow snap-to-endpoint measurement. Scanned or raster PDFs require manual scaling and can introduce 1–2% error on large areas. If you send CAD files, we can extract quantities directly, which reduces measurement time but requires a layer standard we can map to CSI divisions.
Common scope gaps we catch in a bid package
These are the items that most often go missing in a PlanSwift takeoff. We check for them before the file leaves our desk.
- Wall height and drop assumptions: ceiling heights change gypsum board and paint SF. We verify against reflected ceiling plans and section details. If a corridor has a 9' ceiling but the wall extends to 10' deck, we measure the full height.
- Slab thickening and turned-down edges: these appear on foundation plans as thickened slabs or grade beams. We measure them separately from the slab area. Missing them understates concrete volume and formwork LF.
- Blocking and backing at rated assemblies: fire-rated walls need blocking at penetrations. We count it from the wall type details. This item hides in the wall section and is often skipped when only plan views are measured.
- Overhead and waste on tile, roofing, and flooring: typical waste factors are 5–10% on tile, 10% on roofing, 5–8% on flooring. We apply them as separate lines. Without them, your material order will fall short on complex layouts.
- Door and window jamb depth: jamb extensions and sill pans are often missed. We check the window schedule and details for these items. They hide in the window schedule notes and are easy to overlook when counting units only.
- Equipment pads and curbs: mechanical equipment often sits on housekeeping pads. We count them from the mechanical plans. They are shown as small rectangles on the plan but rarely listed in the equipment schedule.
- Pipe insulation, hangers, and seismic bracing: these are shown on MEP plans but rarely measured. We include them in the takeoff. They hide in the specifications and on detail sheets, not on the main piping plan.
- Sealants and air/vapor barrier transitions: these appear in wall sections and details. We measure linear feet at transitions. They are not shown on floor plans, so they are missed unless the estimator reads the sections.
- Rough opening dimensions: nominal unit sizes differ from rough openings. We check the door and window schedules for correct dimensions. A 3'-0" door needs a 3'-2" rough opening, and missing that difference affects framing and header counts.
- Site utilities and trenching: these are on civil plans and often missed in building takeoffs. We measure trench length and depth. They are separated from the building sheets and can be overlooked when the takeoff is scoped to architectural only.
- Temporary protection and final cleaning: these are in Division 01 and often overlooked. We flag them for your GC general conditions. They are not shown on drawings, so they must be added from the specification.
- Plan revision deltas: addenda change dimensions. We track the delta and provide a change log so your bid stays current. Without it, you may price an old dimension and lose the bid or absorb the difference.
Material choices that change the PlanSwift takeoff
The material you choose changes the unit of measure, waste factor, and measurement method. This table shows common examples across divisions.
| Material | CSI section | Unit of measure | Waste factor (typical) | Takeoff method note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gypsum board, standard 1/2" | 09 29 00 | SF | 10% | Measure wall and ceiling area; deduct openings >10 SF. |
| Gypsum board, 5/8" Type X | 09 21 00 | SF | 10% | Same as standard, but verify assembly rating and layer count. |
| CMU, lightweight | 04 20 00 | SF | 5% | Measure net wall area; count grout cells and reinforcement separately. |
| CMU, normal weight | 04 20 00 | SF | 5% | Same as lightweight, but check structural requirements for grout fill. |
| PVC pipe | 22 11 00 | LF | 5% | Measure centerline run; count fittings separately by type and size. |
| Copper pipe, Type L | 22 11 00 | LF | 5% | Measure centerline run; add for fittings and valves per schedule. |
| TPO roofing membrane | 07 54 00 | SF | 10% | Measure roof area; add for perimeter, penetrations, and flashing. |
| Modified bitumen roofing | 07 52 00 | SF | 10% | Measure roof area; include base sheet, cap sheet, and flashing. |
| Ceramic tile, floor | 09 30 00 | SF | 5–10% | Measure floor area; add for cuts, borders, and pattern waste. |
| Structural steel, W-shapes | 05 12 00 | TON | 2% | Measure member length; convert to weight using AISC tables. |
| Ductwork, galvanized | 23 31 00 | LB | 5% | Measure duct area; convert to weight using SMACNA gauge tables. |
| EMT conduit | 26 05 00 | LF | 5% | Measure centerline run; count fittings, boxes, and supports separately. |
Codes and standards that affect a PlanSwift takeoff
Model codes (IBC/IRC/IECC/NEC/IPC/NFPA etc. that apply to this trade and which provisions change quantities)
The International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC) set occupancy classifications, fire ratings, and egress requirements that directly change wall types, door counts, and shaft sizes. For example, a 1-hour rated corridor requires specific gypsum board assemblies, which increases board thickness and layer count. The IECC governs insulation R-values and window U-factors, affecting insulation SF and window specifications. The NEC dictates conduit fill and wire sizing, which changes conduit LF and wire LF. The IPC and NFPA 13 set plumbing fixture counts and sprinkler coverage, affecting pipe LF and head counts. Always confirm the adopted code edition with the local building department, as editions vary by state and jurisdiction.
Industry standards (ACI, ASTM, SMACNA, GA, NRCA, etc. relevant to this trade)
ACI 318 governs concrete strength and reinforcement, which affects rebar LB and concrete CY. ASTM C754 covers gypsum board application, including screw spacing and joint treatment, which influences accessory quantities. SMACNA standards define duct gauge and reinforcement, changing ductwork LB and hanger counts. GA-216 provides gypsum board installation guidelines, impacting waste factors and joint compound quantities. NRCA guidelines for roofing systems dictate underlayment and flashing requirements, affecting roofing squares and flashing LF. These standards are referenced in specifications and must be read to ensure the takeoff matches the required installation method.
Specification sections (the CSI sections an estimator must read and what in them changes cost)
Specification sections in Division 01 (General Requirements) often include temporary protection and final cleaning, which are not shown on drawings but must be added to the estimate. Division 03 sections specify concrete mix designs and curing methods, affecting material costs. Division 04 sections detail masonry reinforcement and grouting, changing rebar and grout quantities. Division 09 sections list gypsum board types, levels of finish, and acoustical requirements, which impact board SF and accessory counts. Division 22 and 23 sections specify pipe materials, insulation, and duct sealing, affecting LF and SF quantities. Always cross-reference the specifications with the drawings to catch discrepancies.
Local amendments (why adopted editions and amendments vary, and to confirm with the local building department)
Local jurisdictions often amend model codes, changing requirements for fire ratings, energy efficiency, and seismic bracing. For example, California's Title 24 energy code exceeds IECC requirements, increasing insulation and window performance specifications. Seismic zones in the western U.S. require additional bracing for piping and ductwork, adding hangers and seismic restraints to the takeoff. Some cities require sprinkler systems in residential buildings, adding pipe LF and head counts. Because amendments vary, you must confirm the adopted code edition and local amendments with the local building department before finalizing your takeoff. We flag potential code-driven items but cannot guarantee compliance without jurisdiction-specific confirmation.
Who uses our PlanSwift estimator for contractors
General contractors
You need a complete takeoff to build your bid. We deliver by CSI division so you can roll up costs and compare subcontractor quotes line by line.
Subcontractors
You bid one trade and need accurate quantities fast. We take off only your divisions and deliver in your pricing format, often within 24 hours.
Developers
You need a budget before design is complete. We take off what is available and flag missing information so you know what to expect in the next design phase.
Architects
You want a quantity check on your own design. We provide a third-party takeoff that can validate your cost model or catch drawing inconsistencies.
Owners
You are comparing bids and need an independent quantity baseline. Our takeoff gives you a neutral set of numbers to evaluate contractor proposals.