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Import files to the Estimating module

Tekla PowerFab
Modified: 11 Mar 2025
2025
Tekla PowerFab

Import files to the Estimating module

You can import IFC, KISS, and Bluebeam files, and Microsoft Excel worksheets to the Estimating module. IFC is the recommended format.

Importing files

  1. Go to File > Import.

    The Import dialog opens.

  2. In the navigation tree, click the desired import option under Estimating.

  3. Browse to find the file you want to import.
  4. Select the file, and click Open.
  5. Click Import

    You can click the Test Import button to test importing a file before actually importing it. This way, you can ensure that all information will be imported successfully.

    What happens next depends on the type of file that you are importing. For example, when you are importing an Microsoft Excel worksheet, the Import Field Map dialog asks you to connect the Microsoft Excel columns with the Tekla PowerFab standard fields.

    For sample files, see Excel Spreadsheet Sample Import Files. For IFC import, see the instructions below

    Note: You should only save your field mapping selections if you are absolutely sure that you will continue to use the same mapping. This is because the Import Field Map dialog may not open in the future when you import new files that match the previously saved mapping.

    After you have done so, the import continues.

    Once the import is completed, a message appears at the bottom of the Import dialog.

  6. To close the dialog, click the Close button (X) in the upper-right corner.

Import an IFC file to an estimating job

Using IFC files allows revised items to be updated, and you can report the changes such as material size and quantity during the import process.

Bluebeam CSV files, Microsoft Excel worksheets, or KISS files do not have this ability, and will create new instances for all the items in the files.

When exporting to IFC from Tekla Structures, the EPM_Burns or EPM_Copes Additional Property sets should be included. These provide a more complete set of information into the Estimating module.

For instructions on exporting IFC files from Tekla Structures, see IFC export.

  1. Go to File > Import.

    The Import dialog opens.

  2. In the navigation tree , select IFC under Estimating.
  3. Browse to find the file you want to import.
  4. Click Import

    The Import dialog opens, and shortly after, the Estimate Job Edit dialog.

  5. Fill out the job details.

    For information on the properties, see Modify an estimating job and Create an estimating job.

  6. Click Save.
  7. If the imported files do not match the shapes and grades, create an item association.

    The Translate Shapes/Grades dialog opens.

    See Translate unknown shapes and grades.

  8. For new jobs, confirm if you want to add and link a new Trimble Connect project.
    1. If you want to add the project, click Yes.

      Add Users to Project dialog opens.

    2. Use the arrow buttons to select users. and click OK.

      You are prompted to confirm uploading the file to the Trimble Connect project.

    3. Click Yes.
  9. When you have completed the mapping, click OK.

The import is completed.

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