SketchUp (SKP)
Import SketchUp files into your digital twin
The tool teams reach for when they need a building or layout modeled by Friday. Those SKP files can seed the digital twin of your facility.
- File extensions
- .skp
- Developed by
- Trimble
- Category
- Native CAD
- Geometry
- Face-based surface models
- Typical software
- SketchUp Pro, SketchUp Free
- Import pipeline
- Autodesk Platform Services translation
What is a SketchUp file?
SketchUp is the 3D modeler famous for its approachability: push-pull modeling that lets non-specialists produce credible buildings and layouts quickly. Created by @Last Software, made ubiquitous under Google, and owned by Trimble since 2012, it stores its models in the SKP format.
SketchUp's gravity is in architecture and space planning rather than precision mechanical design, and its 3D Warehouse hosts an enormous library of ready-made models. SKP files are version-stamped, and newer releases can save back to older versions for compatibility.
Where these files come from
SKP files show up in facility layout studies, architectural concept models, warehouse and office mockups, and anywhere someone needed a quick, presentable 3D space without a full CAD toolchain.
How to import SketchUp files into Moicon
As simple as four steps, from file to factory floor.
Step 1
Upload your model
In the Moicon dashboard, select Add asset and drag and drop your .skp file.
Step 2
Let it process
Moicon translates SketchUp files through Autodesk Platform Services, the service behind its support for more than 70 formats. Translation time depends on the size and complexity of the model and the current service load.
Step 3
Name and organize it
Give the asset a name, add a thumbnail so it is easy to spot, and file it under the categories your team uses in the asset library.
Step 4
Place it in your project
Open your project and drop the asset into the viewport. From there you can position, clone, and scale it like any other asset in your twin.
SketchUp FAQ
Are SketchUp models accurate enough for factory planning?
They are surface models rather than engineering solids, but SketchUp works at real-world dimensions, which is fine for layout and spatial studies. For machine-level precision, pair them with proper CAD data.
What if my SKP was made in a very new SketchUp version?
SketchUp can save files back to earlier versions. If a file will not process, re-saving to an older SKP version from within SketchUp is the usual remedy.
Does Moicon import SKP files?
Yes. SketchUp files are translated through Autodesk Platform Services when you upload them to your asset library.