Construction Bidding Software Face-Off: ProCore vs BuilderTrend

Construction bidding software has transformed the way contractors secure high-value projects in today’s competitive market. The construction industry’s success depends heavily on precise estimating. Real-life case studies demonstrate that contractors who use such software see better profits and efficiency at the time they manage their projects.

Our experience shows how construction estimating software enables contractors to create and organize estimates faster. This saves valuable time and resources. These digital tools have made construction activities more efficient by improving productivity and simplifying procedures. The choice between industry innovators like ProCore and BuilderTrend can be tough for construction professionals, even though many options exist.

This complete comparison will help you understand how these two popular platforms match up against each other for 2025. You might run a small contracting business or handle large-scale projects. We’ll guide you to pick the solution that best lines up with your specific needs, workflow requirements, and budget constraints.Construction Bidding Software

User Interface and Ease of Use in Construction BiddingSoftware

Your construction bidding software’s interface can affect daily productivity and team adoption rates by a lot. Procore and BuilderTrend each take their own approach to user experience, with key differences in dashboard layouts, learning requirements, and mobile capabilities.

Dashboard Design: Procore vs BuilderTrend

Procore offers a detailed interface built for complex construction operations. Its dashboards have that give stakeholders up-to-the-minute insights into project health, progress, and risks customizable views [1]. The platform excels at combining task management with project data to create a complete view that lines up tasks with project milestones. Procore’s interface works great for commercial, industrial, and residential construction projects. Construction Bidding Software

BuilderTrend takes a simpler approach with its easy-to-use interface [2]. The dashboard has an approachable UI with everything needed for project tracking and simple collaboration [2]. Users get straightforward tools like Gantt chart scheduling, daily logs with weather tracking, to-do lists, and a client communication portal. This optimized approach works great for smaller teams and residential builders who need core features without extra complexity.

Learning Curve: Onboarding Time and Training

These platforms offer different implementation experiences. BuilderTrend users often find it easier to get started thanks to its easy-to-use interface and straightforward features [3]. The platform gives you dedicated onboarding coaches and account managers who help with setup and training for the first 90 days.

Procore needs more setup and configuration time because of its detailed capabilities [3]. The platform has 24/7 support and extensive training resources, but many users find it challenging at first. One reviewer pointed out that Procore’s biggest weakness is how intimidating it can be due to its extensive feature set [2]. Many companies invest in special onboarding and training programs to help their teams adapt [3].

Both platforms give great support. BuilderTrend has 24/7 access to their self-guided Help Center with videos, tutorials, and FAQs, plus a Learning Academy with certification programs [3]. Procore provides enterprise-level support through structured certification and training, including self-paced courses and role-specific certifications [3].

Mobile App Experience: Field Access and Usability

Mobile functionality plays a significant role for construction teams in the field. Procore’s mobile application stands out with its detailed feature set [3]. The app has:

Advanced photo management capabilities
Detailed safety inspection tools
Real-time document markup features
Project updates and collaboration tools

Procore’s mobile solution lets field teams handle complex tasks right from job sites. They can capture and share data without going back to the office [3]. Workers can update tasks, add photos, and communicate on the move [4]. Construction Bidding Software

BuilderTrend’s mobile approach focuses on simplicity and core functionality [3]. It has essential tools like daily logs, time clock, to-do management, scheduling, and file access [2]. The app also includes GPS tracking for geofencing, so crew members can only clock in when they’re physically onsite [2]. While it has fewer features than Procore, BuilderTrend’s mobile solution works well for residential builders and smaller commercial contractors [3].

Customization and Templates

Professional templates and customization options determine the success of construction bidding software. They directly affect how contractors present themselves to potential clients. Knowing how to create professional, branded proposals quickly can mean the difference between winning and losing valuable projects.

Proposal Templates: Prebuilt vs Custom Options

BuilderTrend excels with its that work perfectly as starting points for professional proposals detailed pre-designed templates[5]. These templates provide structure and can be modified to line up with your specific requirements [5]. Contractors get the best of both worlds – efficient templates and personalization options needed for unique projects. Construction Bidding Software

BuilderTrend’s proposal system shines with its . Users can pull estimate data directly into proposals and create polished documents without switching between different systems smooth integration with estimating tools [5]. This integration makes the entire bidding process more efficient and reduces errors while saving valuable time.

Both platforms understand the need for solid proposal foundations that adapt to company-specific needs, though specific details about ProCore’s template offerings aren’t available in the factual information.

Branding Capabilities: Logo, Colors, and Layouts

First impressions matter in construction bidding. Branding capabilities play a significant role. BuilderTrend stands out by offering extensive personalization options that highlight your brand identity [5]. Users can add their logos, company colors, and preferred layouts to create consistent, professional-looking proposals.Construction Bidding Software

The platform lets users add graphics and visual elements to boost proposal appeal [5]. These branding features serve a strategic purpose and help turn leads into secured jobs by showing a polished, professional image to potential clients [5].

Small contractors can now produce proposals that look just as professional as those from larger competitors. They don’t need to invest in separate design software or services.

Template Flexibility for Different Project Types

BuilderTrend’s template system adapts to construction projects of all types. This feature makes it incredibly valuable. Users can tailor proposal templates specifically for remodels, custom builds, additions, and other project types [5]. Contractors save time because they don’t need to create new proposals from scratch for each project category.

BuilderTrend allows detailed customization of individual elements within proposals. Users can adjust line items, terms, allowances, and branding to match each client and project type [5]. A bathroom renovation proposal might include specific allowances for fixtures, while a custom home build proposal would feature completely different sections.

The platform solves a common challenge in construction bidding – explaining different types of projects clearly to clients with varying industry knowledge. Customized templates for specific project types help present information in the most relevant format. This approach improves client understanding and increases the chances of proposal acceptance.Construction Bidding Software

Collaboration and Communication Tools

Image Source: ProjectManager

Communication makes construction projects successful and builds effective collaboration. Procore and BuilderTrend each take unique approaches to connect teams, clients, and subcontractors through their construction bidding software platforms.

Real-Time Editing: Multi-User Access

Construction bidding software needs uninterrupted real-time editing capabilities to work well. BuilderTrend excels by putting all activities in one place. Team members can work together without version control issues. You won’t have to wait for others to finish before making your contributions.Construction Bidding Software

Procore uses a different strategy with centralized project execution. All activities, documents, and communication flow through a single system. The platform makes complex workflows easier by giving everyone appropriate access for live updates. In spite of that, users say Procore’s many features can be harder to learn than simpler alternatives [6].

Both platforms let administrators control who can view, edit, or approve different system elements through role-based permissions. This detailed control stops unauthorized changes while keeping the collaborative workflow needed for successful construction bidding.

Internal Messaging and Notifications

BuilderTrend’s communication tools create a central hub where nothing gets missed. The platform has:

that keeps everyone in the loop BuilderTrend Chat for instant team messaging [1]
Direct messages that connect to existing email accounts [1]
Custom notification options through email, text, or push alerts [7]

BuilderTrend’s job-based communication organization stands out [7]. Important messages won’t get buried in busy inboxes. The Messages feature works like email but focuses on project communication. Users can write new messages, pick recipients, add subjects, and send notes—all within specific jobs [7].

Procore also brings communication together but focuses more on linking it to project documentation and workflows. This creates better connections between discussions and actual work, though setting it up takes more time.

Client and Subcontractor Communication Features

The biggest difference between these platforms shows in how they handle external stakeholder communication. BuilderTrend has complete client and subcontractor communication tools:

A Customer Portal gives clients live project updates, messaging, and electronic signing [6]
Subcontractor/Vendor profiles with custom feature access [8]
Permissions Wizard lets builders control what clients, subs, and team members see [1]
Subcontractors can comment on allowed features, handle RFIs, and access approved documents [8]

Active subcontractors in BuilderTrend can communicate entirely through the platform [8]. This keeps everything in one place instead of scattered across texts and emails.Construction Bidding Software

Procore’s external communication tools take a different approach. Its mobile app helps field workers, subcontractors, and project managers update tasks, add photos, and communicate on site [4]. Some users mention occasional technical issues with mobile features that can affect field communication [4].

Construction companies managing complex projects with many stakeholders find these communication tools are a great way to get better results than traditional methods. Both systems eliminate communication gaps in construction projects by bringing everyone onto a single platform – from office staff to field workers to clients.

Estimating and Bidding Capabilities

Precise estimating makes all the difference between making money or losing it on big construction projects. Procore and BuilderTrend both provide tools to make this vital process efficient, but they handle estimating and bid management quite differently.

Cost Estimating Tools: Line Items and Assemblies

BuilderTrend prioritizes speed and efficiency with estimating tools made specifically for builders who work on similar residential projects. The platform makes early-stage budgeting simple through features like that compares actual expenses to original estimates. It also has prebuilt templates that speed up estimate creation real-time job costing [3]. This works great for contractors who handle similar projects and need quick estimates.

Notwithstanding that, BuilderTrend struggles with more complex projects. The platform doesn’t have custom line item structures or grouped categories based on phase or cost type. It also can’t handle conditional pricing logic for scope changes or advanced markup rules [3]. This becomes a problem for high-end custom homes, commercial work, or remodels where requirements keep changing.Construction Bidding Software

Procore offers better preconstruction features through its dedicated Preconstruction suite. Its estimating module has advanced features built for complex commercial projects that blend naturally with other project phases [3]. Procore’s estimating tools connect directly to bid management. This creates a single workflow that helps large-scale projects where teams need speed, accuracy, and good coordination.

Takeoff Integration: Manual vs Automated

The way takeoff and estimating work together plays a big role in how efficient construction bidding software can be. Procore excels with cloud-based takeoff tools that connect directly to plans and drawings [3]. This helps data flow naturally between takeoff and estimate creation, which cuts down on repeated work and possible mistakes.

BuilderTrend’s takeoff features aren’t as strong. It lacks dynamic measurement tools that automatically update quantities and pricing [3]. Contractors working on complex projects that need exact material calculations might find this limiting.Construction Bidding Software

Bid Tracking and Management Features

Each platform has its own bid management tools with different strengths. BuilderTrend makes bid tracking simple. Users can:

Send bid invites to multiple subcontractors
Attach relevant drawings and specifications
Compare responses side-by-side
Convert accepted bids directly into purchase orders or contracts [9]

Procore uses a simple “create, invite, convert” approach to manage bids. Users can create bids quickly with auto-filled project information and watch all bid activity from one dashboard [10]. They can compare bids side-by-side and turn winning bids into subcontracts or purchase orders with just one click.

Of course, this saves a lot of time—one company found that Procore’s bidding tool turned three days of work into just five hours [10]. The system keeps all bidding in one place, which gives better visibility and stops common issues like lost documents and duplicate work during handoffs [10].

The choice between these tools depends on what you need. BuilderTrend works well for residential contractors who need something straightforward. Procore shines with complex commercial projects that need detailed takeoffs and complete bid management.Construction Bidding Software

Integrations and Workflow Automation

The strength of construction bidding software lies in its ability to connect with other business systems. Procore and BuilderTrend each take different approaches to integration and automation based on their target markets.

Accounting Software Integration: QuickBooks, Xero, Sage

BuilderTrend connects with accounting tools that contractors of all sizes commonly use. The platform’s allow smooth financial data transfer direct integrations with QuickBooks and Xero[2]. Users can also import Excel documents and link with specialty tools like Contractor’s Office to estimate costs [2]. This straightforward approach keeps things simple while working with key financial systems. Construction Bidding Software

Procore takes integration to an enterprise level. The platform goes beyond simple accounting connections by supporting sophisticated ERP systems and providing complete API access with extensive development resources [2]. Users can connect with Oracle NetSuite, QuickBooks, Sage, Viewpoint Spectrum, Workday, Yardi, MRI, and Acumatica [11]. This strong ecosystem makes Procore valuable especially when you have larger organizations managing complex financial operations across multiple projects.

CRM and Project Management Sync

Both platforms understand how bidding and estimating need to work with broader project management and client relationship tools. BuilderTrend creates a unified experience within its own ecosystem from the first bid through project completion.

Procore’s embedded apps marketplace features partner-developed solutions that expand functionality [2]. This marketplace lets users build custom workflows that link bidding with CRM tools, scheduling systems, and specialized construction applications.Construction Bidding Software

Automation Rules and Triggers

Integration shows its true value through workflow automation. Connected accounting systems in both platforms eliminate duplicate entries and minimize errors [11]. Procore syncs data in real-time so field teams can access current cost information [2]. Teams make better decisions throughout the bidding and project management process as a result.Construction Bidding Software

BuilderTrend focuses on making smaller teams more efficient with its automation features. The system updates financials from the field automatically, syncs payment details, and converts approved bids into contracts [3]. These features optimize workflows for residential contractors who need reliability over complex enterprise features.

Pricing, Support, and Scalability

Cost often determines the final choice of construction bidding software, even after looking at all technical features.

Pricing Models: Subscription vs Custom Quote

BuilderTrend employs a tiered pricing structure that starts at USD 299.00 monthly for the Core plan. Pro and Premium plans cost USD 499.00 and USD 799.00 respectively [2]. All BuilderTrend plans are available to unlimited users, which makes them perfect for small companies looking to grow their teams [2].

Procore takes a different approach with custom pricing based on yearly construction volume. Small companies might pay around USD 375.00 monthly, while larger operations could see bills running into thousands per month [2]. The pricing gets more complex because Procore sells separate modules for different functions [12].Construction Bidding Software

BuilderTrend costs much less than Procore, which makes it a better choice for budget-conscious businesses [13].

Customer Support: Live Chat, Training, and Resources

Both platforms offer strong support systems. BuilderTrend’s support package has a dedicated team, 24/7 Help Center, Learning Academy, Buildertrend University and Onsite Consulting [13]. Teams can complete certification programs and role-based training at their own speed [2].Construction Bidding Software

Procore matches this with enterprise-level support through well-organized certification and training systems. Users get complete self-paced courses and role-specific certifications for project managers, subcontractors and architects [2]. The customer support team helps through live chat during business hours (2 AM – 5 PM CST and 9 AM – 12 AM CET) [14].

BuilderTrend’s customer support ranks higher with a 4.7/5 score compared to Procore’s 4.5/5 rating [4].

Scalability: Small Contractors vs Large Enterprises

Your company’s size and growth plans should guide your choice. Procore shines with large-scale commercial projects that need multiple stakeholders and complex workflows [2]. Large operations benefit from its advanced features and extensive customization options.Construction Bidding Software

BuilderTrend works better for residential builders and smaller commercial contractors [2]. Its user-friendly interface and focused features help teams work efficiently without getting lost in unnecessary complexity.Construction Bidding Software

Comparison Table

Feature Category	ProCore	BuilderTrend
Starting Price	~$375/month (volume-based)	$299/month (Core plan)
User Interface	Complex, detailed dashboard	Simple, easy-to-use interface
Learning Curve	Extensive setup time, steeper learning curve	Smoother startup, easier to learn
Mobile App Features	– Advanced photo management- Detailed safety inspection tools- Document markup in real-time- Project updates	– Daily logs- Time clock- To-do management- GPS tracking/geofencing
Support Options	– 24/7 support- Self-paced courses- Role-specific certifications	– 24/7 Help Center- Learning Academy- 90-day onboarding coach- Onsite consulting
Estimating Capabilities	– Advanced preconstruction suite- Complex project handling- Integrated cloud-based takeoff	– Simple estimating tools- Job costing in real-time- Limited takeoff capabilities
Accounting Integrations	Oracle NetSuite, QuickBooks, Sage, Viewpoint Spectrum, Workday, Yardi, MRI, Acumatica	QuickBooks, Xero
Target Market	Large enterprises, complex commercial projects	Small-medium contractors, residential projects
Customer Support Rating	4.5/5	4.7/5
User Pricing Model	Custom quotes based on volume	Unlimited users included

Conclusion

A detailed comparison between ProCore and BuilderTrend shows some notable differences that’ll help you make the right choice. BuilderTrend stands out as a better option for residential builders and small commercial contractors. Its easy-to-use interface and lower pricing at $299 per month with unlimited users makes it a great choice for growing companies watching their budget.

ProCore costs more with its volume-based pricing, but it delivers enterprise-level features built for complex commercial projects. The platform handles complicated workflows between multiple stakeholders really well. This justifies its higher price tag for bigger operations that manage high-value projects.

The time it takes to learn each system is worth thinking about. Teams pick up BuilderTrend faster thanks to its user-friendly design and 90-day coaching support. ProCore packs more power but needs more time and training upfront before teams can use all its features well.

Both systems know construction teams need good mobile features. BuilderTrend keeps it simple with daily logs and time tracking. ProCore goes further with advanced field tools like detailed safety checks and real-time document editing.

Your business’s needs should guide your choice. BuilderTrend gives small to mid-sized residential contractors everything they need without extra complexity or cost. Large commercial operations with multiple complex projects will benefit from ProCore’s feature-rich platform, even with its steeper learning curve and higher cost.

These platforms work better than old paper-based bidding methods. The right bidding software will make operations more efficient, cut down errors, and help you win better projects. Your company’s size, project complexity, and growth plans matter more than what others in the industry are doing or recommending.

Key Takeaways

Choosing the right construction bidding software depends on your company size, project complexity, and budget constraints. Here’s what construction professionals need to know about these two leading platforms:

• BuilderTrend wins on affordability and simplicity – Starting at $299/month with unlimited users, it offers intuitive interfaces perfect for residential builders and smaller contractors.

• ProCore excels for complex commercial projects – Despite higher costs (~$375+ monthly), it provides enterprise-grade features ideal for large-scale operations with multiple stakeholders.

• Mobile functionality differs significantly – BuilderTrend focuses on essential field tools like time tracking, while ProCore offers advanced features including safety inspections and document markup.

• Learning curves vary dramatically – BuilderTrend provides smoother onboarding with 90-day coaching, whereas ProCore requires substantial training investment due to its comprehensive feature set.

• Integration capabilities reflect target markets – BuilderTrend connects with QuickBooks and Xero for small businesses, while ProCore supports enterprise ERPs like Oracle NetSuite and Sage.

The decision ultimately comes down to matching software capabilities with your specific business needs rather than choosing the most feature-rich option available.

FAQs

Q1. Which software is better for small residential contractors: ProCore or BuilderTrend? BuilderTrend is generally better suited for small residential contractors. It offers a more user-friendly interface, lower pricing starting at $299/month with unlimited users, and features tailored to residential projects. The platform provides a smoother learning curve and onboarding process, making it ideal for smaller teams.

Q2. How do the mobile app capabilities differ between ProCore and BuilderTrend? ProCore’s mobile app offers more advanced features like detailed safety inspection tools and real-time document markup. BuilderTrend’s app focuses on essential field functions such as daily logs, time clock, and to-do management. It also includes GPS tracking for geofencing, which is particularly useful for smaller crews.

Q3. What are the main differences in pricing models between ProCore and BuilderTrend? BuilderTrend uses a tiered pricing structure starting at $299 monthly for the Core plan, with all plans including unlimited users. ProCore employs a custom pricing model based on annual construction volume, starting around $375 monthly for very small companies but potentially reaching thousands per month for larger operations.

Q4. How do the estimating capabilities compare between the two platforms? ProCore offers more robust preconstruction capabilities through its dedicated Preconstruction suite, including advanced estimating features designed for complex commercial projects. BuilderTrend’s estimating tools are more basic, focusing on speed and efficiency for similar residential projects, but may be limited for high-end custom homes or commercial work.

Q5. Which software provides better integration with accounting systems? ProCore offers more extensive accounting integrations, supporting systems like Oracle NetSuite, QuickBooks, Sage, Viewpoint Spectrum, Workday, Yardi, MRI, and Acumatica. BuilderTrend focuses on integrations with accounting tools commonly used by small to mid-sized contractors, offering direct integrations with QuickBooks and Xero.