By Bodyshop Software Guide · Updated November 8, 2026 · 2 min read
The direct answer
Start with AutoHound for a small collision team that already writes estimates elsewhere. Choose Web-Est first for a one-person estimating desk, or Shopmonkey for a business that earns most of its revenue from mechanical service.
A three-person shop with one shared office
Consider an owner who estimates, a technician who receives parts and an advisor who closes invoices. A shared login obscures who approved a change. Price three named accounts and ask all three people to update the same repair. When two jobs need the same booth, see whether the assigned technician can find the revised start time unaided.
Compare costs for a small crew
| Platform | Strongest fit | US pricing | Licensing |
|---|---|---|---|
| AutoHound | Independent collision shops keeping their estimator | $599/month per location, plus applicable tax | Unlimited users; monthly renewal |
| Web-Est | Dedicated estimating for an independent body shop | Standard listed at $154/month; confirm terms | Higher bundles quoted; confirm seats |
| CCC ONE | Established estimating and insurer assignment workflows | Request quote | Itemize estimating, Repair Workflow and communications |
| Shopmonkey | General automotive and mixed-service shops | Basic $239/month or $215/month on annual billing | Basic includes 3 users; additional users $20/month |
Prepare for the vendor meeting
- Bring one customer-pay job and one insurance repair. Count everyone who needs an individual login on the busiest shift.
- Ask for a quote at today’s headcount and at two more users. Include the estimator, accounting connection and training time in both.
Common questions
Is the cheapest base plan the lowest-cost choice?
Compare the required estimator, accounting tier and staff access on one quote sheet. A plan that needs a second subscription can cost more than its advertised entry fee suggests.
Sources & further reading
Product information checked November 8, 2026. Examples and checklists are practical evaluation tools.
AutoHound · Plans ↗AutoHound · Workflow and integrations ↗Web-Est · Current features and pricing ↗CCC ONE · Estimating ↗CCC ONE · CCC ONE training catalog ↗CCC ONE · QuickBooks Online setup ↗Shopmonkey · Plans and user licenses ↗Shopmonkey · Integration requirements ↗Have a detail to add? Send a suggestion.