Scale Model FAQ: Cost, Lead Time, Shipping & Materials

Model pricing is determined by five primary factors: model scale and overall dimensions, complexity of the project, lighting, electronics or other features to integrate, order quantity and shipping destination.

For a better understanding, these are the factors we consider when estimating the price:

• Physical size of the model;
• Scale used (this determines the level of detail);
• Complexity of the original project;
• Order quantity (number of models);
• Materials;
• Extra features (lighting and electronics, moving mechanisms);
• Design of the presentation base;
• Protective enclosure (size, Perspex or glass);
• Packaging;
• Delivery destination;
• Required production schedule (standard or urgent 24/7 work).

Considering these variables, every scale model project receives its own technical and financial proposal. Proposals are sent to the client within 24 to 48 hours after the project is clearly defined and the blueprints are received.

The basic information needed to prepare a custom scale model quote is:

• Number of models to be manufactured;
• Size of the scale model(s) or scale(s) to apply to the design project;
• General arrangement blueprint (a 2D PDF file) to check the dimensions and complexity of the design;
• Any special requirement, such as LED lighting, powered mechanisms, a special model base design or digital developments;
• Shipping destination (for the transportation cost).

To prepare an accurate technical and financial proposal, we only need a general arrangement blueprint (for example a 2D PDF file) where we can check the main project dimensions and the design shape.

Manufacturing typically requires 3D CAD files (such as Rhino, AutoCAD, Revit, SolidWorks or OBJ/FBX files), 2D elevation drawings, color scheme references and the desired scale or dimensions.

Every client receives 2 documents with the following information:

1. Technical proposal

• Objective;
• Detailed scope of the proposal;
• Work requirements from the client;
• Manufacturing methodology and stages;
• High-level project plan with the main milestones;
• Model dimensions;
• Examples of similar projects already executed (with photos);
• Other reference portfolio projects.

2. Financial proposal

• Prices;
• Payment terms and conditions;
• Warranty;
• Proposal validity.

Our standard B2B commercial terms follow a milestone structure:

1. Initial mobilization deposit (50%): paid upon contract signature and CAD file approval.
2. Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) balance (50%): paid after the client's final inspection sign-off, before crating and dispatch.

On larger projects, terms are reviewed and agreed with the client.

Manufacturing timelines depend on the project scale, design complexity and number of units. Standard turnaround times range from 4 to 10 weeks for one model after CAD confirmation. Multiple models of the same design extend the time by 2 or 3 weeks, depending on the quantity.

Accelerated production schedules can be arranged for urgent exhibition deadlines.

After reviewing the project information, TNBuilt West provides a project-specific manufacturing schedule.

Models can be fitted with single or multi-zone low-voltage LED circuits. Options include warm interior lighting, tinted privacy glazing, exterior deck (boats) and balcony illumination, and animated light sequences controlled by push-buttons on the base or by wireless remote control.

Yes. We build custom multi-zone micro-LED lighting systems integrated with interactive touchscreens, push-buttons on the base or wireless tablet controllers. Users can select individual buildings, marine decks or industrial zones to illuminate specific project features during sales presentations.

Yes. We can integrate custom remote-controlled motorized elements (such as rotating helipads, crane mechanisms or opening hatches) and tablet or touchscreen controllers to highlight specific project features.

TNBuilt West operates under strict confidentiality and non-disclosure protocols. Client 3D models, CAD geometry and proprietary engineering designs are kept strictly secure and are never shared or published without formal written authorization.

When required we enforce controlled limited personal access to:

• Original project information by our engineering CAD/CAM team;
• Dedicated manufacturing and assembly rooms, where only the authorized staff can enter with access control.

Every model is shipped in custom-engineered aluminum flight cases with shock-absorbing EVA foam cutouts tailored to the exact model profile.

Cases are fitted with calibrated G-force impact indicators to ensure proper freight handling during air transport.

We always try to accommodate design updates through our modular CAD workflows. If your engineering or architectural drawings are revised during production, our CAD team assesses the impact on components already in CNC milling or 3D printing. Unaffected modular sections continue fabrication while modified components are remade, minimizing project delays and keeping cost adjustments transparent.

Design changes at later stages will likely affect the delivery time of the scale model.

Our team makes the correction and repeats the quality assessment before shipping.

It depends on the display space and the detail you need. Larger scales show decks, furniture and interiors; smaller scales suit multiple copies and compact displays. We advise you in the proposal.

Scale selection depends on your available display footprint, viewing distance and required level of detail:

• 1:1 to 1:10 (ultra detailed): used for mechanical cutaway equipment displayed at trade show booths.
• 1:25 to 1:50 (high detail): ideal for superyachts and standalone luxury villas.
• 1:100 to 1:200 (medium scale): best for commercial high-rises, residential towers, cruise liners and FPSO vessels.
• 1:500 to 1:2000 (large footprint): designed for waterfront master plans, city districts, industrial refineries and seaports, where the overall spatial layout is the priority.

Yes. We offer turnkey display solutions, including high-clarity optical acrylic dust covers with bevel-cut edges and custom pedestals made from brushed aluminum, real wood veneers or matte architectural composites. Pedestals can feature integrated low-voltage power connections, hidden storage compartments and custom brass or laser-etched nameplates.

Every model is engineered for long-term showroom display and international exhibition conditions. We use UV-resistant polyurethane paints, non-yellowing acrylics and tropicalized internal LED wiring that withstands temperature fluctuations and high humidity in indoor environments without warping, fading or debonding.

Yes. We can assist any client on site, with any scale model.

For large master plans, modular industrial plants or high-value exhibition launches, our technical team can travel to your event venue, sales center or corporate headquarters to oversee uncrating, alignment, lighting calibration and final positioning.

For major accidental damage, our technicians can be sent on site for emergency restoration, or replacement modular parts can be quickly fabricated and sent by air express directly to your venue.

We accept all standard 2D and 3D CAD formats, including Autodesk Revit (RVT), AutoCAD (DWG/DXF), Rhino (3DM), STEP, IGES, SolidWorks and OBJ files. Our engineering team converts your project files directly into high-precision CNC and 3D printing toolpaths.

TNBuilt West scale models are delivered with:

• A model display base;
• A transparent acrylic protection cover;
• A metal technical plate;
• An air-freight case equipped with G-force safety indicators;
• LED lighting where specified.

Yes. If you prefer to use your own logistics partner, we facilitate the pick-up of the scale model and the export documentation at our factory.

No. Local taxes and customs charges in your country are not included in our proposals.

Our proposal conditions are valid for 30 (thirty) calendar days.

Yes: we offer 1 (one) year on defective parts or workmanship.

Yes. We welcome client visits to our Kuala Lumpur factory. Feel free to request a visit and we will gladly receive you at our premises.

Yes. We offer all options to our clients: multiple units and several scales of one design can be produced in the same order.

Yes: projection mapping, touch screens, LCD displays and VR.

Yes. We can repair, restore or maintain any scale model, from any model maker.

We provide assistance for any scale model worldwide.

Yes. We mainly work for professional firms, but we can manufacture any scale model for an individual (your villa, for example), as long as you can supply the required information and files.

Yes. There are generic 3D design files that TNBuilt West can use to develop your scale model: villas, FPSOs, buildings, industrial units, gas turbines, engines, yachts, boats and more.

Yes. We can design, manufacture and install the booth for a very successful participation of your company in the trade show, including:

• All technical content (physical and digital);
• Staging and décor;
• Lighting;
• Display panels;
• Software and hardware (if applicable);
• Furniture;
• Any other element you need.

Yes. We can supply the complete content for your technical museum or EXPO pavilion (physical and digital content).

We can also develop the complete museum or EXPO pavilion project (turnkey), from design to on-site installation.