Estimating · 8 June 2026
Takeoff vs. Full Estimate: What's the Difference?
A takeoff is quantities. An estimate is quantities plus rates. Which one subcontractors need, which one builders need, and why it matters before you tender.
What is a material takeoff (MTO)?
A material takeoff (often just called a "takeoff") is the process of measuring and listing the exact physical quantities of materials required from a set of construction drawings. The output is a Bill of Quantities (BOQ) showing measurements like cubic metres of concrete, square metres of formwork, or tonnes of steel. A pure takeoff provides the quantities but does not attach dollar values to them.
What is a construction estimate?
A construction estimate takes the quantities generated in the takeoff and applies pricing to them to determine the total cost of the project. An estimate applies rates for materials, labour, equipment hire, wastage, preliminaries, and the builder's margin.
Which one do subcontractors need?
- Subcontractors (e.g., Concreters, Formworkers): Usually require a Takeoff. They know their own hourly labour rates and supplier material discounts better than anyone else. They need an accurate list of quantities (the BOQ) so they can apply their own rates and submit a competitive tender.
- Builders and Developers: Usually require a Full Estimate (or Budget Estimate). They need to know the total financial cost of the project to secure funding or test feasibility before going out to tender.
At HYKSOS, we provide unpriced takeoffs for subcontractors who want to apply their own rates, and fully priced Class 3 Budget Estimates for developers testing feasibility.