In construction, accuracy and efficiency can make or break a project. Lumber takeoff—the process of measuring, quantifying, and listing all the lumber required for a project—plays a vital role in cost estimation and material planning. With the industry becoming more competitive, professionals in 2025 are turning to advanced software to handle this task. The right tools not only reduce errors but also speed up the bidding process, improve collaboration, and save money by minimizing waste.

Below, we’ll explore the top tools and software for lumber takeoff in 2025, highlighting their features, benefits, and why they matter for builders, contractors, and estimators.

STACK — Cloud-Based Accuracy and Collaboration

STACK has emerged as one of the leading takeoff platforms in 2025. Its biggest advantage is that it’s entirely cloud-based, meaning teams can collaborate in real-time from anywhere. This makes it an ideal choice for contractors who need flexibility and remote access.

With STACK, users can quickly calculate lumber needs by simply uploading digital blueprints. Its measurement tools are intuitive and accurate, and the platform integrates with cost databases, allowing estimators to turn measurements into complete bids in minutes. Another strength is its scalability—whether you’re handling a single-family house or a commercial project, STACK adapts to your needs.

Beam AI — The Power of Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence has made a huge impact on construction estimating, and Beam AI is one of the most advanced examples. Instead of manually drawing polygons around studs, joists, or beams, Beam AI automatically identifies and measures components from blueprints.

This automation drastically reduces takeoff time, allowing estimators to bid on more projects in less time. Many contractors report cutting hours of work down to minutes. The platform also recalculates instantly if plans change, eliminating the need for tedious rework. Beam AI is perfect for teams that want speed and scalability without sacrificing accuracy.

PrebuiltML — Built by Estimators, for Estimators

PrebuiltML is another standout tool that has carved a niche in lumber takeoff. Unlike many generic software platforms, PrebuiltML was specifically designed with estimators in mind. It offers powerful framing tools for walls, floors, and roofs, as well as a massive product database for lumber and engineered wood.

One of its most useful features is the “Quick Check” function, which verifies that takeoffs are complete before finalizing. This helps catch potential mistakes before they become costly. Because it’s tailored for builders, framers, and lumberyards, PrebuiltML is a favorite among professionals who demand trade-specific accuracy.

PlanSwift — A Trusted Name in Takeoff

PlanSwift has been around for years and remains a trusted tool in 2025. Its strength lies in its simplicity and precision. Estimators can upload digital blueprints, point and click to measure lumber components, and export results instantly.

The software’s drag-and-drop functionality makes it fast to apply assemblies—such as stud walls or roof trusses—directly to drawings. This not only saves time but also ensures consistency across projects. PlanSwift is especially useful for contractors who value a balance between affordability, accuracy, and ease of use.

eTakeoff with AI Enhancements

eTakeoff has leveled up in 2025 with artificial intelligence features that improve both accuracy and speed. Its AI tools can automatically detect areas, lengths, and counts from drawings, while still allowing users to manually adjust when needed. This combination of automation and control is ideal for estimators who want precision without losing flexibility.

Another key advantage is its strong integration with other construction software, making it easier to move data from takeoff into cost estimating or project management systems. For contractors handling complex projects, eTakeoff offers a dependable, modern solution.

TradeTek — Perfect for Lumber Yards and Dealers

TradeTek is unique because it was designed specifically with lumber yards and material dealers in mind. While many tools focus on contractors, TradeTek helps suppliers quickly generate detailed material lists and quotes.

Its customizable assemblies allow users to build templates for common framing structures, speeding up the estimating process. Estimates can be exported to spreadsheets or integrated with inventory and sales systems, making it easy to transition from takeoff to order fulfillment. For businesses that sell lumber directly, TradeTek is a powerful option in 2025.

Hover — Visual Estimating at Its Best

Hover has gained popularity thanks to its visual-first approach. By using 3D modeling and images, it generates material lists without the need for tedious manual calculations. This makes it especially attractive for contractors working on residential projects where visual communication with homeowners is just as important as accuracy.

With Hover, you can take photos of a structure and generate ready-to-use measurements for framing, siding, or roofing. It’s a user-friendly solution that bridges the gap between design and material estimation.

Autodesk Construction Cloud — Enterprise-Level Precision

For larger contractors, Autodesk Construction Cloud is a complete ecosystem that integrates takeoff with project management, cost tracking, and design tools. Its takeoff module allows both 2D and 3D measurements, providing unmatched accuracy.

Because it’s part of a larger platform, Autodesk’s solution is best suited for companies that want all-in-one control. Teams can collaborate across disciplines—designers, estimators, and project managers—ensuring everyone works from the same data. While it may be overkill for small builders, it’s the gold standard for enterprise projects in 2025.

Buildxact — Designed for Small and Medium Builders

Buildxact stands out as one of the most user-friendly platforms for small to mid-sized contractors. It includes pre-loaded cost databases, templates, and takeoff tools that simplify the entire estimating process. Many users report cutting takeoff time by up to 80%.

Because Buildxact is cloud-based, it also supports team collaboration and real-time updates. This makes it an affordable yet powerful choice for builders who need professional-grade accuracy without the complexity of enterprise systems.

Bluebeam Revu — Precision for PDF Workflows

Bluebeam Revu continues to be a go-to tool in 2025 for contractors who work primarily with PDF plans. Its measurement and markup tools are incredibly precise, and it allows users to organize takeoffs with color-coded systems.

One of the biggest benefits of Bluebeam is its ability to link measurements directly into spreadsheets, giving estimators instant cost updates. For teams that want to stick with PDFs while still upgrading their accuracy, Bluebeam remains a top contender.

Summary: Matching the Tool to Your Needs

The best lumber takeoff software in 2025 depends on your priorities:

• For AI-powered speed and automation: Beam AI or eTakeoff

• For trade-specific needs: PrebuiltML or TradeTek

• For simplicity and trust: PlanSwift or Bluebeam Revu

• For collaboration and scalability: STACK or Autodesk Construction Cloud

• For small contractors: Buildxact

• For visual workflows: Hover

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right lumber takeoff tool is about more than software—it’s about setting up your projects for success. In 2025, the construction industry is fast-paced, competitive, and increasingly digital. Whether you need AI-driven automation, collaborative cloud access, or a simple PDF-based solution, there’s a tool designed for your workflow.