Hiring a 3D Scanning Company — What to Expect

Here is what a typical 3D scanning engagement looks like from start to finish:

1. Initial consultation (free, 15-30 min): You describe your project, the provider asks about scope, deliverables, timeline, and access. Most providers offer free consultations by phone or video.
2. Quote (1-3 business days): You receive a written project-based quote. Good providers itemize deliverables so you know exactly what you're paying for.
3. Scheduling (1-7 days lead time): Standard scheduling is 3-7 days out. Rush/emergency service is available from some providers (1-hour to same-day).
4. Site preparation (your responsibility): Ensure access to all areas, remove temporary obstructions if possible, designate an on-site contact. No need to vacate — scanning is non-disruptive.
5. Field scanning (hours to days): Single room: 15-30 min. Residential home: 2-4 hours. Commercial: 4-8 hours. Large industrial: 1-5 days.
6. Processing and delivery (3-7 business days): Point cloud registration, quality control, and deliverable generation. Rush delivery is available for an upcharge.

• "What scanner will you use for this project?" — Survey-grade scanners (Trimble X12, Leica RTC360, FARO Focus Premium) deliver ±2-4mm accuracy. Consumer-grade options are much less accurate.
• "Do you own your equipment or rent it?" — Companies that own their fleet can deploy faster and maintain their equipment better.
• "What file formats will you deliver?" — Standard: E57 (universal), RCP/RCS (Autodesk), LAS (geographic). Make sure they can deliver what your software needs.
• "Is this a project-based or hourly quote?" — Project-based is more predictable. Hourly quotes can balloon on complex sites.
• "What happens if a rescan is needed?" — Reputable providers include reasonable rescans in their project quote.
• "What is your turnaround time?" — Standard: 3-7 business days. Rush: 24-48 hours. Emergency: same-day.

• Provider cannot name the specific scanner model they will use
• No written quote — only verbal estimates
• Hourly pricing with no cap or maximum
• Cannot provide sample deliverables from past projects
• No insurance or liability coverage
• Unwilling to commit to accuracy specifications