--- title: How to Ship an Architectural Model Internationally url: https://www.shsztmodel.com/insights/shipping-architectural-models-internationally/ description: How large architectural models are sectioned, crated, shipped by air or sea, cleared through customs and reassembled on site — a checklist for overseas developers. updated: 2026-07-18 --- Logistics · 18 Jul 2026 · 3 min read # How to Ship an Architectural Model Internationally How large architectural models are sectioned, crated, shipped by air or sea, cleared through customs and reassembled on site — a checklist for overseas developers. By the SZT Model project team · Reviewed by David Wang On this page - [1. Design for shipping from day one](#1-design-for-shipping-from-day-one) - [2. Custom crates](#2-custom-crates) - [3. Air or sea](#3-air-or-sea) - [4. On-site assembly](#4-on-site-assembly) - [5. After-sales](#5-after-sales) - [Checklist for overseas clients](#checklist-for-overseas-clients) **Short answer:** Large architectural models are designed in sections, packed in custom foam-lined wooden crates, and shipped door-to-door by air freight for speed or sea freight for very large consignments. A technician then reassembles, aligns and commissions the lighting on site. SZT Model has delivered projects to 22 countries. Here is how a model gets from our Shanghai factory to a sales gallery in Dubai, Nairobi or Sydney in perfect condition. ## 1. Design for shipping from day one The section layout is decided during 3D modelling, not at the end. Joints are placed along roads, rivers or plot boundaries where they disappear visually, and each section is sized to fit through doors and lifts at the destination. Tall towers are designed to detach from the base. ## 2. Custom crates Every section travels in its own wooden crate with shaped foam supports and fixing points, so nothing touches the delicate surfaces. Crates are built from export-grade timber and marked with the handling and orientation labels your forwarder needs. ## 3. Air or sea - **Air freight** is the default for sales-gallery models: fast, with less handling time. - **Sea freight** suits very large exhibition-hall models or multi-model consignments where the schedule allows. We arrange door-to-door logistics and supply packing lists and documents for customs clearance. ## 4. On-site assembly Our technicians can fly out to unpack, join sections, re-align towers, connect lighting and commission the control system. Alternatively we provide an illustrated assembly guide and remote video support for your local contractor. ## 5. After-sales Spare parts for lighting and fragile elements travel with the model. Our nine-person after-sales team supports maintenance and relocation afterwards. ## Checklist for overseas clients - Door and lift dimensions at the venue - Floor loading and power supply (voltage, plug type) - Delivery address, consignee and import contact - Date the gallery is ready for installation - Whether you need our technician on site [Ask about shipping to your country](https://www.shsztmodel.com/contact/). Keep reading ## More *insights* [Guides14 Oct 20263 min ### How to Choose the Right Scale for an Architectural Model A practical guide to architectural model scales — from 1:20 interiors to 1:5000 city masterplans — with a table of typical uses and a formula to size your model.](https://www.shsztmodel.com/insights/architectural-model-scale-guide/)[Guides22 Sept 20263 min ### What Determines the Cost of an Architectural Model? The seven factors that drive architectural model pricing — size, scale, detail, landscape, lighting, motion and logistics — and how to brief a model maker for an accurate quote.](https://www.shsztmodel.com/insights/architectural-model-cost-factors/)[Technology30 Aug 20263 min ### 3D Printing vs CNC vs Handcraft in Architectural Model Making How modern model makers combine large-format 3D printing, CNC engraving, laser cutting, UV printing and hand finishing — and which technique suits which part of a model.](https://www.shsztmodel.com/insights/3d-printing-vs-cnc-model-making/) Start a project ## Have drawings? Get a quote in *24 hours*. Send plans, a 3D model or just a rendering. A project manager replies within one working day with a recommended scale, an itemised quotation and a dated schedule. [Request a quote](https://www.shsztmodel.com/contact/)[WhatsApp David Wang](https://wa.me/8613588680098)