Definitions
Quantity takeoff (QTO): a measured list of every material and work item shown on the drawings and in the specifications, with quantities and units. It answers how much.
Cost estimate: a priced document that converts quantities into cost using material prices, labor productivity and rates, equipment, subcontractor prices, general conditions, overhead, profit and taxes. It answers how much will it cost.
Side-by-side comparison
| Quantity takeoff | Cost estimate | |
|---|---|---|
| Output | Quantities and units | Dollars by line item and total |
| Includes labor | No | Yes, hours and cost |
| Includes material prices | No | Yes |
| Includes overhead and profit | No | Yes |
| Typical users | Subcontractors, suppliers, contractors with in-house pricing | GCs, owners, developers, lenders, architects |
| Effort | Lower | Higher |
| Fee | Lower | Higher |
When a takeoff is enough
- You are a subcontractor with strong historical labor productivity.
- You have current supplier pricing and want to apply it yourself.
- You need a material list to send to a supplier for pricing, such as a framing and lumber list.
- You need to check quantities in a bid form or an owner's estimate.
Order a quantity takeoff.
When you need a full estimate
- You are a GC preparing a lump-sum or GMP bid with many trades.
- You are an owner or developer setting a budget or checking a contractor's price.
- You need a lender-ready cost breakdown.
- You are bidding work outside your usual market and lack current pricing.
Order a construction cost estimate. If design is incomplete, start with a preliminary budget estimate.
Common takeoff units
| Trade | Units |
|---|---|
| Concrete | CY, SF of forms, tons of rebar |
| Earthwork | CY (bank, loose, compacted) |
| Masonry | SF, unit counts |
| Framing | LF, pieces, SF of sheathing |
| Roofing | Squares (100 SF), LF of ridge and flashing |
| Drywall and paint | SF |
| Flooring | SF or SY |
| Piping and conduit | LF by size |
| Ductwork | Pounds by gauge |
| Fixtures, doors, devices | Each |
Try our free concrete calculator to see how a basic takeoff calculation works.
How estimate accuracy relates to the drawings
AACE International classifies estimates by design maturity, from Class 5 at concept to Class 1 at completed design. A takeoff from construction documents supports a Class 2 or Class 1 estimate; a takeoff from schematic drawings cannot be more accurate than the drawings themselves.
Common takeoff errors
- Missing items shown only in details, sections or schedules.
- Not applying addenda.
- Double-counting at intersections.
- Applying the wrong waste factor or none at all.
- Using default footing depths instead of the local frost depth, a common error in northeast Kansas. See concrete estimating.
Bottom line
If you price your own work, buy a takeoff. If you need the number, buy an estimate. Not sure? Send your plans and we will recommend the lighter option that still meets your needs.
Frequently asked questions
Is a takeoff the same as an estimate?
No. A takeoff is the measured quantity list. An estimate prices those quantities. Every estimate contains a takeoff, but a takeoff alone has no prices.
Which is cheaper, a takeoff or an estimate?
A takeoff is usually less expensive because it does not include labor productivity, material pricing or markups.
What units are used in a takeoff?
Common units include cubic yards for concrete and earthwork, square feet for slabs, drywall and paint, linear feet for walls, pipe, conduit and trim, squares for roofing, tons for steel and rebar, and each for fixtures, doors and devices.
Can a takeoff be used for a bid?
Yes, if you apply your own prices. Many subcontractors order takeoffs and price them with their own crew rates and supplier quotes.
Sources and further reading
- AACE International Recommended Practice 18R-97: Cost Estimate Classification System
- Construction Specifications Institute, MasterFormat
This guide is general information for estimating and bidding, not tax or legal advice. Confirm requirements with the agency or jurisdiction that governs your project.