Side by side
- A takeoff answers how many and how much. An estimate answers what it costs.
- A takeoff comes from the plans and the spec. An estimate comes from the takeoff and your prices.
- A takeoff error is a missed or miscounted item. An estimate error is a wrong price or rate.
Why the difference matters
A wrong price makes one line wrong. A missed item makes the whole bid wrong, and you find out after you win the job. That is why the takeoff deserves a second check.
Guides · Updated 11 Nov 2026