I find automatic tools are good to fill up the portfolio of older established sites with a lot of backlinks. Just try to use the tools in a whitehat-style. Split linkbuilding packets in 4-5 time frames (always leave 2 monthes to submit to next).
My recommendations for semi-submitting is SubmitEaze with the new version (also own sites in local languages can be setup); try to enhance time frames for link building to prevent landing in g*****`s sandbox. If you have to make more backlinks, I recommend Sick Submitter - it can submit automatic to phpld - directories, BUT take care and only use it also in whitehat style. Also only use own scraped high quality phpld domains, as built in sites are full of spam. Scraping software what is good -> scrapebox. Hope this helps.