Use Case Comparison

Scan-to-BIM Cost Guide 2025

An expert comparison to help you choose the right equipment for your project.

We deliver BIM-conversion-ready 3D scan data — processed point clouds in E57, RCP, and LAS that import directly into Revit, AutoCAD, and all major BIM platforms. Our scanning services →

Feature	LOD 200-300 Modeling	LOD 400 Modeling
LOD Level	200-300	400
Includes	Architectural, basic MEP	Detailed architecture, full MEP
Turnaround	1-2 weeks	2-3 weeks
LOD 200	$0.15 - $0.25/sqft	-
LOD 300	$0.25 - $0.45/sqft	-
Minimum	$2,500	$5,000
Service Pricing	$0.15 - $0.45/sqft	$0.45 - $0.75+/sqft

Pricing shown reflects average US rates. Actual costs vary by location based on local market conditions, regulations, and project logistics — both within the US and internationally. Get a custom quote

Option A Standard BIM

LOD 200-300 Modeling

Design & Coordination Ready

Standard BIM modeling at LOD 200-300, performed by your team or a third-party BIM firm, for design reference and coordination. Industry-reference market rates; includes architectural geometry, major MEP systems, and design-ready output.

Pros

Cost-effective
Faster delivery
Good for design reference
Coordination-ready

Cons

Not fabrication-ready
Limited MEP detail
May require refinement

Best For

Design referenceInitial coordinationRenovation planningSpace planning

Option B Detailed BIM

LOD 400 Modeling

Fabrication & Construction Ready

Detailed BIM modeling at LOD 400, performed by your team or a third-party BIM firm, with full MEP systems, detailed components, and fabrication-ready output. Industry-reference market rates for third-party BIM modeling.

Pros

Fabrication-ready
Full MEP detail
Quantity takeoffs
Future maintenance ready

Cons

Higher cost
Longer timeline
More interpretation required

Best For

FabricationConstruction documentsComplex MEP systemsFacility management

Our Expert Verdict

Tie - Choose Based on Your Needs

Scan-to-BIM costs have two components: 3D laser scanning (point cloud capture and delivery) and BIM modeling (converting point clouds to Revit models). Budget $0.15–$0.75+ per square foot for modeling, plus scanning costs. THE FUTURE 3D delivers the scan data — survey-grade, registered point clouds ready for direct Revit import. Your team or any BIM firm handles the modeling. The LOD $/sqft shown are estimated market rates for third-party CAD/BIM conversion — not THE FUTURE 3D services or quotes; no guarantees.

Choose LOD 200-300 Modeling if...

Choose LOD 200-300 for design reference, coordination, and renovation planning.

Choose LOD 400 Modeling if...

Choose LOD 400 for fabrication, construction documents, and detailed MEP documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Level of Development (LOD)?

LOD defines modeling detail: 200 for basic geometry, 300 for coordination, 400 for fabrication, 500 for as-built operations.

What adds to Scan-to-BIM cost?

MEP complexity, client-specific standards, existing conditions interpretation, and rush delivery all increase modeling costs. Scanning costs are based on square footage and number of scan positions required.

Do you provide BIM modeling?

THE FUTURE 3D delivers BIM-conversion-ready scan data in E57, RCP, LAS, and OBJ formats for direct import into Revit, AutoCAD, or any BIM software. Your team or any BIM firm builds the model from our survey-grade data. Contact us for scanning pricing.

Our Services