When AEC projects go off track, it’s rarely just one big thing. Typically, it’s often the sum of small estimating errors, slow takeoffs, missed revisions, and poor coordination. For example, ever stare at a mound of spreadsheets wondering if your material quantities are accurate? You’re not alone. Without the right construction estimating software in place, construction planning and disciplined costing turn into a guessing game. And the fallout can stretch across budgets, timelines, and trust between stakeholders.
In the AEC industry, cost estimation is part of 5D BIM. While 3D BIM includes the geometry and 4D adds time/scheduling data, 5D BIM integrates cost data directly into the BIM model, enabling more accurate and dynamic cost estimation throughout the project lifecycle. Simply put, software for estimation and costing in construction or civil engineering is the tool that brings the fifth dimension (the cost) to life in BIM.
So, what are the cost estimation tools that you can use to complete the BIM process?
Bluebeam Revu
In many construction projects, Blubeam Revu comes to simplify the everyday estimating grind with powerful and intuitive markup tools. It’s especially known for its smooth PDF-based workflows.
Estimators and quantity surveyors frequently use Bluebeam. Why? To support construction teams with accurate takeoff operations using flexible software on 2D drawings with ease.
The platform also supports real-time collaboration, so estimators and project managers can work together without version headaches. Bluebeam’s Quantity Link also integrates with Excel, making it easy to update bid calculations without double entry.
It’s no surprise that Revu is a favourite among Australian cost planners. It reduces friction in early-stage estimating. So, Revu can helps eliminate basic errors, and speeds up workflows without requiring a steep learning curve. For many teams, it’s the go-to companion for more advanced cost estimation tools.
Autodesk Takeoff
Autodesk Takeoff is cloud based and supports construction estimating workflows through integrated software. It’s a key part of the Autodesk Construction Cloud platform. Professional estimators and preconstruction teams are its main users.
Your teams can collaborate from anywhere with live updates and centralised documentation. Unit rates can be added to generate early-stage conceptual estimates right inside the platform.
This dual-input method ensures scope clarity, especially for larger, BIM-heavy projects. If you’re managing multiple takeoff sources across disciplines, Autodesk Takeoff reduces error risk and builds consistency.
When paired with Interscale’s BIM-ready workflows, it forms a strong foundation for scalable estimating systems that support design and delivery teams alike.
Autodesk Revit (with Cost Plugins)
The strength of Revit for cost estimation software lies in its rich building component data. But you need to pair with the right plugins.
For example, several AEC firms often use plugins like CostX or even custom Dynamo scripts. All to link Revit models with costing templates.
This connection turns the 3D design into a live source of cost truth. For early-stage planning, you can use model massing to generate rough estimates with historical rates, which is ideal for feasibility checks.
For reference on BIM software, kindly check our review of the best BIM software in 2025 list here.
Navisworks
Navisworks earns its place in the estimating toolbox for one big reason: aggregation. It allows estimators to pull together Revit, CAD, and other formats into one federated model. From there, the Quantification module lets you measure directly from the combined model. And there’s no jumping between platforms.
Navisworks supports both 2D and 3D takeoffs, assisting building teams with cost estimating inside a single federated environment.. Plus, it works well for projects involving clash detection and coordination.
Navisworks also allows the use of custom catalogues to organise items. As designs evolve, Navisworks can update quantities by refreshing the model, a key practice in BIM-based estimating. For us, Navisworks is a robust way to merge design and cost.
RIB CostX
RIB CostX is an all-in-one platform that handles both 2D and 3D takeoffs, complete with automated costing, linked workbooks, and detailed reporting. This is why CostX is a favourite among quantity surveyors and commercial contractors.
You can import BIM models or PDF drawings, extract quantities, and apply rates from internal cost libraries.
What sets CostX apart is its responsiveness. What sets CostX apart is its responsiveness. When you change a model, the cost updates cascade across your estimate.
For firms handling large, complex builds, CostX offers transparency, accuracy, and real-time cost management.
Procore Estimating
Procore Estimating, formerly Esticom, is ideal for contractors who want estimating baked into their project platform. It covers digital takeoffs, auto-count, and real-time bid generation.
Once the estimate is finalised, you can sync it with your broader Procore financials. That means fewer data handovers, fewer copy-paste errors, and a clear path from tender to contract execution.
While it’s not as BIM-rich as other tools, it’s highly effective for trade contractors and builders already using Procore. For these teams, the value lies in speed, integration, and simplicity.
Buildxact
Buildxact makes estimating more accessible to residential builders and renovators. It’s designed for simplicity. In our experience, Buildxact is designed for simplicity. Just upload your plans, click to take off quantities, and build your cost estimate directly from those inputs.
The software includes templated pricing, supplier list integration, and built-in quoting tools. It even connects to accounting systems like Xero or MYOB for budget control down the line.
Many small businesses find that Buildxact helps them ditch spreadsheets without sacrificing control. It’s local, straightforward, and supported in Australia. This is a big consideration when you’re not running a full BIM department.
How Much Does Estimating Software Cost?
The cost of these 7 construction estimating software above all comes down to your best fit. Your ideal software will depend on how your team works, what stage you’re at with BIM adoption, and where you see your business heading. Our suggestion it’s worth trialling a few before making the call. Let’s break down the cost of each construction estimating software in Australia into the table below:
| Software | Pricing | Our review |
|---|---|---|
| Bluebeam Revu | A$451 to A$737 per user per year | Ideal for quick, flexible takeoffs. Offers three tiers—Basics, Core, and Complete—making it a solid fit for teams needing simple markups or more advanced workflows. |
| Autodesk Takeoff | A$ 1,965 per year | Best for teams handling both 2D and 3D takeoffs. A unified platform that suits firms actively working with BIM models alongside traditional drawings. |
| Autodesk Revit | A$4,585 per yearA$575 per monthA$460/100 tokens | A design-first tool that becomes a powerful estimating engine when paired with plugins or 5D BIM workflows. Great for teams ready to link design and cost data. |
| Navisworks Manage | A$4,325 per yearA$540 per monthA$460/100 tokens | Built for complex projects with many moving parts. Excels in aggregating models from different disciplines and running detailed quantity takeoffs. |
| RIB CostX | Custom quote-based | High upfront cost, but no ongoing subscription. Suited to firms ready for advanced 5D BIM estimating and looking for a long-term, integrated solution. |
| Procore Estimating | Custom quote-based | Estimating built into your project management suite. If you’re already using Procore, this connects quoting to your broader delivery workflows. |
| Buildxact | Entry: A$2,491 per yearPro: A$4,163 per yearTeams: A$6,670 per year | Simple, cloud-based estimating for residential builders and small contractors. Offers local support and scales with your business. |
Please note, the pricing in the table comparison above is per May 2025. The pricing may vary depending on your region, time, subscription term, and product options. We encourage you to visit the official software website to confirm the latest prices. Or you can contact Interscale for a reliable cost in the Australian context.
Why Is Interscale Your Best Option for BIM Management Services in Australia?
Choosing the right construction estimating software can tighten your margins, reduce rework, and give you back time to focus on what matters. But the best outcomes don’t come from software alone. They come from how well it’s embedded into your workflow.
That’s why you can consider Interscale BIM management service as your support system. We can help you implement cost estimation software, assist with licensing, financing, and training. Or maybe you want to integrate 5D BIM processes with other tools? Or create a custom dashboard? Interscale can help with all of that.
To verify how we work, let’s talk. We offer a free discussion session with our specialist. You can book a free discussion session via Calendly here.
