Choosing the right electrical estimating software is one of the most important decisions a contracting firm makes. The two dominant platforms — Trimble Accubid and ConEst IntelliBid — each have strengths that suit different types of work and business models.
If you are outsourcing your estimating, the software your estimator uses matters just as much as the software you use internally. This guide compares Accubid and ConEst IntelliBid to help you make an informed choice — and explains what to look for in an outsourced estimator who works in your platform.
Trimble Accubid Overview
Trimble Accubid is the most widely used electrical estimating software in the United States, particularly among commercial and industrial electrical contractors. It is available in two versions: Accubid Classic (desktop) and Accubid Anywhere (cloud-based).
Accubid Strengths
- Industry-standard labor databases: Accubid includes comprehensive labor databases calibrated by region, making it easier to produce consistent estimates across projects
- Assembly-based estimating: Pre-built assemblies for common electrical installations speed takeoff and ensure consistent labor factoring
- RSMeans integration: Built-in RSMeans pricing data for materials and labor, updated regularly
- Change management: Robust tools for tracking revisions, addenda, and scope changes across the estimating process
- Reporting and proposals: Built-in proposal and report generation that produces client-ready bid packages
- Multi-user collaboration: Accubid Anywhere enables cloud-based collaboration across teams and offices
Accubid Considerations
- Learning curve: Accubid has a steeper learning curve than some alternatives, requiring dedicated training
- Cost: Licensing costs are higher than some competing platforms, particularly for multi-seat deployments
- Customization depth: While powerful, deep customization requires experience and understanding of the systems architecture
ConEst IntelliBid Overview
ConEst IntelliBid is a leading estimating platform favored by many commercial electrical contractors, particularly those with complex project requirements and large material databases.
IntelliBid Strengths
- Extensive material database: IntelliBid includes one of the most comprehensive material databases in the industry, with extensive manufacturer and supplier pricing
- Flexible assembly structures: Highly customizable assembly structures that can be tailored to your specific estimating standards
- Advanced reporting: Powerful reporting tools with customizable templates for proposals and cost breakdowns
- Integration capabilities: Strong integration with accounting, project management, and procurement systems
- SQL architecture: IntelliBid SQL edition provides robust data management for large-scale operations
IntelliBid Considerations
- Market share: IntelliBid has a smaller market share than Accubid, which can affect subcontractor and partner compatibility
- Training requirements: Like Accubid, IntelliBid requires dedicated training to use effectively
- Database maintenance: Keeping the material database current requires ongoing attention
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Factor | Trimble Accubid | ConEst IntelliBid |
|---|---|---|
| Market share | Largest in US electrical estimating | Strong commercial presence |
| Labor database | Comprehensive, regional | Comprehensive, customizable |
| Material database | Good (via RSMeans) | Extensive, manufacturer-rich |
| Assembly structures | Pre-built, customizable | Highly customizable |
| Reporting | Strong | Very strong |
| Cloud version | Accubid Anywhere | IntelliBid SQL |
| Learning curve | Moderate-steep | Moderate-steep |
| Best for | Commercial, industrial, all sizes | Commercial, complex projects |
What This Means for Outsourced Estimating
When you outsource electrical estimating, software compatibility matters for three reasons:
1. Data Transfer
Estimators who use your software can deliver import-ready files. This eliminates manual data entry and reduces the risk of transfer errors.
2. Labor Unit Alignment
Estimators who understand your software labor database can calibrate their estimates to match your labor factors. This produces estimates that are consistent with your in-house work.
3. Workflow Integration
Estimators who work in your platform understand your assembly structures, pricing methodology, and reporting requirements. This reduces review time and speeds bid submission.
How to Choose an Outsourced Estimator for Your Software
When evaluating outsourced estimating firms, ask these questions:
- Do they use our software? Firms that use Accubid or IntelliBid will deliver more compatible estimates.
- Can they match our labor factors? Estimators should be able to calibrate to your specific labor units and regional factors.
- Can they deliver import-ready files? Look for firms that deliver Excel files formatted for your software import requirements.
- Can they match our assemblies? Estimators should understand your assembly structures and organize takeoffs accordingly.
Apex Electric Estimating Inc works in both Accubid and ConEst IntelliBid, delivering software-compatible takeoffs that integrate directly into your workflow. Contact us to discuss your specific software requirements.
Conclusion
Both Accubid and ConEst IntelliBid are powerful estimating platforms with distinct strengths. The right choice depends on your project types, team size, and estimating preferences. When outsourcing, choose an estimator who works in your software to eliminate friction and speed bid delivery.
Need an estimator who works in your software? Apex Electric Estimating Inc delivers Accubid-compatible and IntelliBid-compatible takeoffs. Contact us for a free quote.