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3D Scanning by Mail

Send us your parts. Get high-quality scan data back. Simple, fast, affordable.

Accuracy
±0.2mm
Laser scanning
Turnaround
2-3 days
24hr available
Starting at
$45
Simple parts

What You Get

📐

Accurate Scan Data

High-quality 3D scans captured with professional-grade equipment (Creality Raptor scanner).

Fast Turnaround

Standard 2-3 day turnaround, or 24-hour express service available for rush jobs.

💾

Multiple Formats

Receive your scan data in STL and PLY formats, ready for your workflow.

Choose Your Scan Type

Our Creality Raptor scanner offers two scanning technologies, each optimized for different applications and accuracy requirements.

Laser

Laser Scanning

Accuracy: ±0.2mm

Best For:

  • • Mechanical parts and precision components
  • • Hard surfaces with defined edges
  • • Maximum dimensional accuracy
  • • Reverse engineering applications

Special Considerations:

Scanning Paint Available

For reflective, transparent, or very dark surfaces, we can apply a temporary scanning spray coating to achieve optimal accuracy. The coating evaporates after scanning.

IR

Infrared Scanning

Includes Full Color Texture

Best For:

  • • Organic shapes and sculptures
  • • Parts where color/texture matters
  • • Darker or matte surfaces
  • • Artistic and decorative objects
  • • 3D printing with color information

Key Benefits:

  • • No scanning spray needed
  • • Works well on varied materials
  • • Captures realistic surface appearance
  • • Great for visualization and presentation

Not sure which to choose?

When you submit photos of your part, we'll recommend the best scanning method based on your needs and the part's characteristics.

How It Works

  • Submit Photos
  • Pay Deposit
  • Ship Part
  • We Scan
  • Review & Pay
  • Receive Files
1. Submit Photos

Email us photos of your part from multiple angles to mike@3d-scans.net. We'll review it to ensure it's suitable for scanning and provide a quote.

2. Pay Deposit

Once approved, pay a 50% deposit to secure your scanning slot.

3. Ship Your Part

Carefully package and ship your part to us using your preferred carrier. We recommend insurance and tracking for valuable items.

4. We Scan

Your part is professionally scanned within our turnaround window. We'll send you screenshots of the scan for approval.

5. Review & Pay

Once you approve the scan quality from the screenshots, pay the remaining 50% balance.

6. Receive Files & Part

We'll send you the scan files (STL and PLY formats) and ship your original part back to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size parts can you scan?

We can handle parts from small components (100mm x 100mm x 100mm) up to approximately half the size of a car. If you're unsure whether your part is too large, send us photos and we'll let you know.

What materials work best?

Matte, non-reflective surfaces scan best. Shiny metal, transparent, or very dark black parts may require special preparation (like temporary coating spray). We'll advise you after reviewing your photos.

What if I can't ship it?

We can arrange that you come to our facility (Seacoast, NH), or we can travel to you (travel time max 1hr).

Do you offer CAD conversion or reverse engineering?

No, we focus exclusively on providing high-quality scan data (STL and PLY files). CAD conversion requires understanding design intent, which varies by application. You'll receive clean scan data that you can use for your specific needs.

What if my part gets damaged in shipping?

We handle all parts with care, but shipping carries inherent risks. We strongly recommend you purchase shipping insurance for valuable or irreplaceable items. You are responsible for properly packaging your part and insuring shipments both ways.

Are the scan files ready to 3D print?

The scan files we provide are high-quality meshes, but they may require some cleanup or modification depending on your intended use. Most 3D printing slicers can import STL files directly, though you may need to repair or optimize the mesh for your specific application.

Do you ship internationally?

Currently we only accept shipments within the United States. International service may be added in the future.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept all major credit cards and PayPal. Payment is split into two parts: 50% deposit before you ship your part, and 50% final payment after you approve the scan screenshots.

Transparent Pricing

We base our pricing on the complexity and time required to scan your part. All quotes are provided upfront after reviewing your photos.

Standard Service

$45 minimum
  • 2-3 day turnaround
  • STL and PLY file formats
  • Screenshot approval process
  • Part returned safely

Pricing scales based on part complexity and scan time required.

Popular

Express Service

+30% premium
  • 24-hour turnaround
  • Priority queue placement
  • All standard features included
  • Perfect for rush projects

Rush service subject to availability. Contact us first for urgent projects.

Ready to Get Started?

Send us photos of your part and we'll provide a quote within 24 hours.

Email Us

What to Include
  • Multiple photos of your part (all angles)
  • Approximate dimensions
  • Material type (if known)
  • Desired turnaround (standard or express)
  • Any special concerns or requirements