How to Choose a 3D Laser Scanning Provider
A neutral guide to selecting a provider for your 3D laser scanning project. Learn what to look for, questions to ask, and red flags to avoid.
Selecting a 3D laser scanning provider can be challenging, especially if you're new to the technology. This guide provides neutral, practical advice to help you evaluate providers and make an informed decision—regardless of whether you choose Mile High 3D Scanning or another company.
The right provider depends on your specific project needs, timeline, budget, and the type of deliverables you require. Here's what to consider when making your choice.
What to Look For in a Provider
1. Relevant Experience
Look for a provider with experience in projects similar to yours. A company that primarily scans industrial facilities may not be the best choice for historic preservation work, and vice versa.
- •Ask about projects they've completed in your industry or application
- •Request portfolio samples or case studies if available
- •Inquire about experience with your specific deliverable type (CAD, BIM, etc.)
2. Professional-Grade Equipment
The quality of scanning equipment directly impacts data accuracy and completeness. Professional-grade scanners from established manufacturers (Leica, FARO, Trimble, etc.) are standard in the industry.
- •Ask what scanner models they use
- •Inquire about equipment calibration and maintenance practices
- •Verify they have appropriate equipment for your project type
3. Clear Communication
Good providers explain their process, set realistic expectations, and communicate clearly throughout the project. Evasive or confusing responses during the sales process often predict problems later.
- •Evaluate responsiveness during initial contact
- •Ask questions and see if they explain concepts clearly
- •Look for willingness to discuss project challenges openly
4. Deliverable Flexibility
Your provider should offer deliverables that match your workflow and software. A provider who only offers one file format or deliverable type may not meet your needs.
- •Confirm they can provide files in formats you can use
- •Ask about CAD, BIM, or other processing capabilities
- •Verify they understand your downstream use case
5. Transparent Pricing
Reputable providers give detailed quotes that break down costs and explain what's included. Vague quotes or unwillingness to explain pricing are warning signs.
- •Look for itemized quotes (field work, processing, deliverables)
- •Ask about potential additional charges upfront
- •Understand what happens if scope changes mid-project
6. Insurance and Professionalism
Professional providers carry appropriate business insurance and conduct themselves professionally on your site.
- •Verify they have general liability and professional liability insurance
- •Ask about site safety practices
- •Request certificates of insurance if required
Red Flags to Watch For
Be cautious of providers who exhibit these warning signs:
Vague or verbal-only quotes — Legitimate providers put proposals in writing with clear scope definitions.
Prices dramatically lower than competitors — While price variation is normal, quotes far below market rates may indicate inexperience, inferior equipment, or hidden upcharges later.
Reluctance to answer technical questions — Knowledgeable providers can explain their process, equipment, and approach clearly.
No portfolio or references — Established providers can show examples of previous work or provide client references.
Overpromising on accuracy or capabilities — Be skeptical of claims that seem too good to be true (sub-millimeter accuracy in all conditions, unrealistic turnaround times).
High-pressure sales tactics — "Limited time offers" or pressure to sign immediately are not standard in professional services.
No insurance or unwillingness to provide certificates — Professional providers carry appropriate business insurance.
Questions to Ask Potential Providers
Use these questions to evaluate providers during the selection process:
About Their Experience
- 1.How long have you been providing 3D laser scanning services?
- 2.Have you completed projects similar to mine? Can you share examples?
- 3.Do you have experience with my industry or building type?
About Equipment and Process
- 4.What scanning equipment do you use?
- 5.What accuracy can I expect for my specific project?
- 6.How do you register (align) multiple scan positions?
- 7.What quality control processes do you follow?
About Deliverables
- 8.What file formats do you deliver point clouds in?
- 9.Can you produce CAD drawings or BIM models from scan data?
- 10.How many revisions are included?
About Pricing and Logistics
- 11.Can you provide an itemized quote?
- 12.What is not included that might be an additional cost?
- 13.What is your typical turnaround time for a project like mine?
- 14.Do you offer expedited delivery if needed?
- 15.What are your payment terms?
About Insurance and References
- 16.Do you carry general liability insurance?
- 17.Can you provide a certificate of insurance?
- 18.Can you provide references from similar projects?
When 3D Laser Scanning May Not Be the Right Choice
3D laser scanning is excellent for many applications, but it's not always the best or most cost-effective solution. Consider alternatives when:
- •You only need a few simple measurements — If you just need a few dimensions, traditional measurement methods may be faster and cheaper.
- •You need certified or stamped documents — 3D scanning providers typically provide informational deliverables, not certified engineering documents. For legal or regulatory purposes, you may need a licensed surveyor or engineer.
- •Your project is primarily outdoors or aerial — Terrestrial laser scanning excels at interior spaces. For large outdoor sites or building exteriors, drone-based photogrammetry or mobile LiDAR may be more efficient.
- •You have existing accurate documentation — If you already have recent, accurate as-built drawings, scanning may only be valuable for verification or specific areas of change.
A good provider will tell you honestly if 3D scanning isn't the right fit for your project and may suggest alternatives.
Making Your Decision
After evaluating providers, consider these factors:
- Fit over price alone — The cheapest quote isn't always the best value. Consider experience, communication quality, and deliverable fit.
- Trust your interactions — How a provider handles the sales process often reflects how they'll handle the project.
- Verify claims — If possible, check references or review portfolio work before committing.
- Get it in writing — Ensure scope, deliverables, timeline, and pricing are documented in a written agreement.
Key Takeaways: Choosing a 3D Scanning Provider
- Look for providers with relevant experience in projects similar to yours.
- Verify they use professional-grade equipment from established manufacturers (Leica, FARO, Trimble).
- Evaluate communication quality during the sales process—it reflects how they'll handle the project.
- Request itemized quotes that clearly define scope, deliverables, and timeline.
- Confirm they carry general liability and professional liability insurance.
- Be wary of quotes dramatically lower than competitors or vague verbal-only proposals.
- Ask about experience, equipment, deliverables, pricing, and references before deciding.
- A good provider will honestly tell you if 3D scanning isn't the right fit for your project.
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