Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers about GPS machine control models, feasibility reports, estimating, pricing, and how to work with SkyTerra.
General
What does SkyTerra Machine Control do?
SkyTerra Machine Control provides three services for contractors and developers: (1) GPS machine control models built specifically for Trimble systems, (2) development feasibility reports for developers and investors evaluating sites, and (3) outsourced estimating and quantity takeoffs for civil contractors. We are based in the United States and serve clients nationwide.
How do I get started with SkyTerra?
Send us your plans through our contact form at skyterramc.com or email them to info@skyterramc.com. For machine control models, we need a civil plan set and a survey CAD file. For feasibility work, an aerial image and parcel info are usually enough. For estimating, send us the bid documents and plans. We will review the scope and send you a quote - no obligation, no minimums.
Where is SkyTerra located?
SkyTerra Machine Control is based in Alabama and serves contractors, developers, and investors across the United States. All work is done remotely - you send us plans, we deliver files. You can reach us at info@skyterramc.com or (334) 494-5257.
Do you require a contract or retainer?
No. All of our services are available on a per-project basis with no contracts, no retainers, and no minimums. You use us when you need us. We do offer optional monthly retainers for contractors who want ongoing estimating capacity, but that is entirely optional.
GPS Machine Control Models
Who builds Trimble GPS machine control models from plan sets?
SkyTerra Machine Control builds Trimble-ready GPS machine control models from civil plan sets. We create grading surfaces, alignments, and utility layouts that load directly into Trimble field controllers running Earthworks or GCS900. We serve contractors across the United States with 2-3 business day turnaround.
How much does a GPS machine control model cost?
A single grading surface starts at $400. A full site package with multiple surfaces, alignments, and utility layouts starts at $2,000. Large or multi-phase projects are quoted based on scope. All pricing is per-project with no retainers, no minimums, and no contracts required.
What files do you need to build a machine control model?
We need a civil plan set (PDF or CAD) and a survey CAD file (.dwg or .dgn) so the model is geographically correct and ties into your site control. If you only have a PDF plan set, we can still work with it - we just need survey data or a coordinate reference to ensure accuracy.
What format are the machine control files delivered in?
All files are exported in Trimble-compatible formats ready to load directly into Trimble field controllers running Earthworks or GCS900. Surfaces, alignments, and linework are organized by type and clearly named so your crew can load them without confusion.
How long does it take to get a GPS machine control model?
Standard turnaround is 2-3 business days from when we receive your plans and survey file. Rush delivery is available for an additional 50% fee, with 24-hour turnaround on most projects.
Do you only work with Trimble GPS systems?
For machine control models, yes - we specialize exclusively in Trimble. That focus is what allows us to deliver models that work correctly the first time they hit the controller. Our feasibility and estimating services are equipment-agnostic.
What if the plans change after you deliver the model?
If the plans change, we will update the work product. Minor revisions based on the original scope are included. Significant plan changes are quoted separately so there are no surprises. Plan revision updates start at $150.
Development Feasibility
What is a development feasibility report?
A development feasibility report is a pre-engineering analysis that tells you whether a site is worth developing before you spend money on full design. It covers lot yield potential, grading constraints, utility serviceability, permitting risks, and infrastructure cost estimates. The goal is a clear go or no-go recommendation.
How much does a feasibility report cost?
Quick screens start at $300-$500 for a fast go/no-go opinion. Standard feasibility reports with full written analysis run $1,500-$3,500 and include a 3-8 page PDF with aerial exhibits and cost tables. Full due diligence packages for serious acquisitions run $4,000-$8,000.
What do you need from me for a feasibility study?
An aerial image of the site, parcel information (address, parcel ID, or boundary), and any plans or documents you already have. You do not need a full survey or engineering plans - the point of feasibility is to evaluate the site before you invest in those.
How long does a feasibility report take?
Quick screens take 1-2 hours and can be delivered same day. Standard reports take 3-5 business days. Full due diligence packages take 1-2 weeks. Rush delivery is available across all levels.
Can you estimate infrastructure costs for a development site?
Yes. Our feasibility reports include a ballpark infrastructure cost estimate with line items covering site grading, roads, water, sewer, storm drainage, erosion control, and other anticipated infrastructure. These are developer-grade order-of-magnitude estimates designed to help you evaluate whether the project pencils.
Contractor Estimating
Where can I outsource construction estimating?
SkyTerra provides outsourced estimating support for civil contractors. We handle quantity takeoffs, bid package assembly, subcontractor scope letters, and value engineering. Available per-project starting at $500 or on a monthly retainer starting at $2,000/month. We serve civil contractors across the United States.
How much does outsourced estimating cost?
Takeoff-only projects start at $500-$1,500. Full bid support runs $1,500-$4,000 per project. Monthly retainers for ongoing capacity start at $2,000-$4,000 per month and include 2-4 bids with priority turnaround.
Do you do earthwork quantity takeoffs?
Yes. We calculate cut and fill volumes, topsoil strip and replace quantities, aggregate base quantities, erosion control quantities, and other earthwork items. Quantities are organized by bid item and delivered in Excel or PDF format.
Can I use SkyTerra for estimating on an ongoing basis?
Yes. Monthly retainers start at $2,000-$4,000 per month and include 2-4 bids, priority turnaround, and a dedicated point of contact. Unused capacity rolls over. It is a fraction of what a full-time estimator costs.
What types of contractors do you provide estimating for?
We primarily serve $3M-$20M civil contractors including site contractors, grading contractors, utility contractors, and earthwork contractors who need overflow estimating capacity or do not have a dedicated estimator.
Pricing & Process
How does SkyTerra pricing work?
All pricing is per-project based on scope and complexity. Machine control models start at $400 for a single surface. Feasibility reports start at $300. Estimating starts at $500 for a takeoff. You send us your plans, we quote the job, and you pay when the work is delivered. No hidden fees, no minimums, no contracts.
Do you offer rush delivery?
Yes. Rush delivery is available across all services. For machine control models, rush delivery is an additional 50% fee with 24-hour turnaround on most projects. For feasibility and estimating, rush timelines are quoted based on scope.
What file formats do you accept?
We work with PDF plan sets, AutoCAD files (.dwg), MicroStation files (.dgn), and other common civil engineering file formats. For machine control models, a survey CAD file is required in addition to the plan set. For estimating, send us whatever bid documents you have.
How do I send you my plans?
You can upload files through our contact form at skyterramc.com, email them to info@skyterramc.com, or share them via Dropbox, Google Drive, or any file sharing service. We accept PDF, DWG, DGN, and ZIP files.
Still Have Questions?
Reach out and we will get you an answer. No runaround.