Frequently Asked Questions

Concrete takeoff software is a tool that lets estimators measure quantities from PDF construction drawings. You trace lengths and areas directly on the plan, then the software calculates concrete volume in m³, granular base quantities, and rebar tonnage using thickness variables and assembly templates.

To calculate asphalt tonnage: (1) set the drawing scale using two known points, (2) trace the paving area as a polygon, (3) apply an asphalt assembly template with HL-3 and HL-4 layer thicknesses, (4) the software multiplies area × thickness × density (typically 2.4 t/m³). BidScoper automates this workflow.

Yes. BidScoper supports multiple viewport scales per page. Define rectangular viewport regions and calibrate each independently with the two-point tool. Measurements within each viewport automatically use the correct scale.

Yes. Metres for length, m² for area, m³ for volume, tonnes for mass. Thicknesses entered in mm, stored in metres. Ideal for Canadian construction projects.

A polyline traces an open path → total length in metres (curbs, piping). A polygon traces a closed shape → enclosed area in m² minus cutout holes (sidewalks, parking lots, pads).

Free trial: 3 projects, 5 exports/month. Pro: unlimited projects and exports. No credit card required for the trial.

No. Entirely cloud-based, runs in your browser. No desktop install, no plugins, no Java/Flash. Works on Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge.

Assembly templates are pre-configured formulas converting a measured area/length into material quantities. E.g., Concrete Sidewalk 32 MPa: area → concrete volume + granular A + optional rebar. Includes templates for sidewalks, ramps, asphalt HL-3/HL-4, and removal.

PlanSwift is a Windows desktop application ($2,000–$5,500/yr per seat). BidScoper runs in your browser — no install, no Windows requirement, no VPN for remote access. BidScoper focuses on concrete and asphalt with purpose-built assembly templates, metric-first units, and Canadian data residency. PlanSwift is a general-purpose takeoff tool that requires manual formula configuration.

Bluebeam Revu is a PDF markup and collaboration tool used across all construction disciplines. BidScoper is purpose-built for quantity takeoff — specifically concrete and asphalt estimating. Where Bluebeam gives you general measurement tools, BidScoper gives you assembly templates that automatically compute volumes (m³), tonnages, and granular base quantities from a single area measurement.

Projects are associated with your organization. Any team member in your organization can access shared projects. Cloud-based storage means everyone sees the same measurements and computed outputs — no emailing files back and forth.

Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge — any modern browser on Windows, Mac, Linux, or Chromebook. No plugins or extensions required. PDF rendering uses PDF.js, the same engine built into Firefox.

BidScoper uses Cloudflare infrastructure with data residency in Canada. Your plan sets, measurements, and computed outputs are stored in Canadian data centres. This is important for municipal contracts and government-funded projects that require Canadian data residency.

Sign up with your email — no credit card required. You get 3 projects and 5 exports per month. All measurement tools and assembly templates are included. When you need more, upgrade to Pro for unlimited projects and exports.

Not directly. BidScoper uses its own measurement and assembly template system. However, you can upload the same PDF plan sets and create takeoffs with BidScoper’s tools. Most users find the browser-based workflow faster than re-creating in PlanSwift.

Your existing projects and measurements remain accessible — you can still view and export them. To create new projects beyond the trial limit, upgrade to Pro. No data is deleted when you hit the trial limit.