FAQ

How is my intellectual property protected?

Protecting your intellectual property is of the utmost importance to us. Any plans, data, or other trade secrets that you share with us are never shared with any outside parties, especially those located outside the United States. We encourage all clients to send us their non-disclosure agreement before starting on a project.

How do I ensure my model will actually look like the real thing?

Since each Built To Scale model is a custom project, we will work closely with you to incorporate details that are important to you. The more information you can provide – plans, AutoCAD or 3D files, photos, paint and finish schedules – will translate into a more precise replication.

How long does it take to receive my model?

Because each of our models is custom-built to order, we begin the design and construction process as soon as you commit to your project with a purchase order and deposit. Most models are completed within 120-160 man-hours. Lead times can vary from 16-24 weeks depending on workload.

How can I track the progress of my model?

We provide all of our clients with access to our portal, a place where you can track the status of your project, upload files, and send messages. We’ll post photo updates at key points in the construction process for your review.

Can I visit your facility?

Of course! We welcome visitors by appointment. Our facility is a fascinating place to tour and we love hosting our clients and potential clients when they’re in town.

How do I protect my model during shipping?

All Built To Scale models come standard with a custom-built plywood shipping crate. Your model will be securely anchored to its base and then padded into its case with urethane foam to protect against normal transportation movement.

Is your model on the road a lot? Request one of our custom road cases with recessed handles, locking latches, and swivel casters if your model will travel frequently.

All shipments are fully insured to protect against mishandling during shipping.

If you want to make sure your model arrives in perfect condition, let us hand deliver it to your office or trade show. Contact us for more details on our white glove service.

How much does a model cost?

Since each Built To Scale model is a custom project, pricing will vary based on the level of detail, scale, and size. Contact us to get your customized quote today.

Exactly how customized can my model be?

At Built To Scale, we love helping our clients’ dreams become reality. With state of the art 3D printing and CNC machinery and our highly skilled craftspeople, we can reproduce the tiniest details.

We encourage our clients to talk to us about their ideas and we will review the possibilities that our team can create.

Previous clients have incorporated details like cutaway sections to display interior features, clear windows to highlight instrumentation and fixtures, LED lighting, and motorized movable features.

We can also customize your model’s display to accent your office or exhibit. From exotic wood selections and finishes to customized furniture bases, we can design a display that accents your existing aesthetic perfectly.

Is a display base and case included?

How you display your model is an important part of the overall aesthetic of your project while also protecting your beautiful investment. All Built To Scale models include a stained or painted hardwood base with a glass or acrylic cover. However as with all aspects of the customization process, you can select a display that accents your corporate style and the model’s intended function. Whether you need the model to blend in with the sleek style of your boardroom or want it to integrate into an existing exhibit booth, we can help you design, and then create, the display setup to best meet your needs.

What scale should I select for my model?

You should consider a few important factors when determining the best scale for your project.

First, what is the application for your project? Will this model serve as a showpiece in a boardroom, staying put once delivered? Or will it travel frequently as part of your exhibit booth display? Some large models (think 8’ aircraft carrier) can be as tricky to install as a baby grand piano. For a model that will travel frequently, you may consider a smaller finished size to make transport less stressful.

Next, what is the maximum overall size for your project? Make sure you know where the model will be installed and the dimensions of that space. You’ll want to be sure to allow space around the model for people to view it on all sides. We’ll also discuss with you the additional size allowance needed for your custom base and protective viewing case. This means that while you may have a 72” space to hold your model, you will want to limit your project to 48”.

The final thing to consider when determining the scale of your project is the level of detail you wish to be visible. The more your project has to “shrink,” the less you will see the fine details. If these details are important in your final project, make sure to talk to us about the ideal scale to keep these items visible on the model.

Many clients find this calculator handy when deciding the scale for their project. We will work with you to make sure the final scale of your model will provide for the size and level of detail you desire.

What will my model be made of?

You want your model to look as much like the real thing as possible. You also want it to stand up to time and transport. That’s why all Built To Scale models are constructed from the highest-quality composite materials using modern machining techniques and finished in the hands of our experienced craftspeople at our facility in Summerdale, Alabama.

Additional materials, such as wood accents, will be used based on the specifications of your design. Be sure to discuss your project’s design features with us so we can create the replica that you envision.

Is delivery included?

Because our models aren’t one-size-fits-all, neither is our shipping service. During the first phase of your project, we’ll discuss your shipping needs and options. Many clients opt for our white glove delivery service to ensure their model is delivered and installed to their exact specifications.

If you prefer to use LTL shipping, we will calculate the cost once we know the exact weight and dimensions of your crated model. Alternatively, we can provide these specifications to you to procure your own shipping service.

All shipments are fully insured.

Where is my model constructed?

Built To Scale models are 100% designed and constructed in the USA. We are not a storefront for drop-shipped products from Asia. When you place an order for a custom Built To Scale model, you can be confident knowing that your model, and your trade secrets, will be handled with the utmost care by our dedicated team in our state-of-the-art facility in Summerdale, Alabama. We will NEVER share your company’s intellectual secrets with a third-party vendor.

All shipments are fully insured.

What happens if I have a problem with my model after delivery?

Unlike some low-cost model builders who actually drop-ship your model from Asia and don’t have the ability to repair damages or errors, Built To Scale clients always receive VIP service after the sale. Whether your model experiences normal wear and tear from trade show travel or your company wants to update a name or colors, your model will receive attention from our skilled craftspeople in our Summerdale, Alabama facility (or at your location with prior arrangement).

Do you provide machining services?

We offer laser cutting, CNC routing, and 3D printing services. Contact us for details.

Call

251-200-4444

251-753-3438

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Email

matt@email.builttoscale.net

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Visit

19423 Highway 59

Summerdale, AL 36580

FAQ