1. Upload the original PDF
Avoid screenshots, compressed messenger copies and print-to-image exports. The original PDF may still contain precise vector lines and searchable text.
2. Include a known measurement
A clearly readable dimension lets us verify the scale. If the plan has no dimensions, provide the length of a wall or another reliable reference.
State whether the project uses millimetres, metres or inches. A visible scale note such as 1:100 helps, but one known dimension is still the best verification. See the complete CAD scale guide for the calculation method and AutoCAD checks.
3. Identify the required pages
For multi-page documents, decide which sheets need conversion. Schedules, cover sheets and general notes often do not need to become CAD files.
4. Keep vector information intact
If you can export the PDF from the source application, avoid rasterising or flattening it unnecessarily. Vector data normally produces cleaner editable geometry.
Before uploading, zoom closely into a line and try selecting text. A sharp line and selectable text normally indicate useful vector content. Pixelated lines indicate a scan. Do not print a vector PDF to a new image-based PDF, because that replaces exact coordinates with pixels and makes circles, curves and text harder to recover.
5. State the intended use
Tell us whether the drawing will be used as an underlay, edited in AutoCAD, imported into Revit or sent to fabrication. That helps determine the best structure and output format.
6. Check rotation, cropping and page condition
Rotate pages to their intended orientation and avoid cropping away title blocks, scale bars or dimensions that may be needed for verification. Scans should be straight, evenly lit and high enough in resolution to separate neighbouring lines. Remove blank pages when possible, but keep legends that explain symbols used on the drawing.
7. Use readable linework
Faint grey lines, heavy compression and coloured backgrounds reduce contrast. If you can export again from the source software, use a vector PDF preset, embed fonts and avoid extremely thin hairlines. Hatches should not be so dense that they hide wall or component outlines. For scanned sources, monochrome can help only when it does not erase lightly drawn information.
8. Decide between automatic conversion and manual redrawing
Automatic conversion is best for clean vector drawings and clear high-resolution scans. Manual redrawing is safer for distorted archive plans, handwritten changes, overlapping details or drawings that will be used for fabrication. Learn more about manual CAD redrawing and PDF vectorization.
Information to include with the upload
| Information | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Required pages | Avoids converting covers and schedules unnecessarily |
| Units and scale | Supports correct model-space dimensions |
| Known measurement | Provides an independent accuracy check |
| Output format | Matches the target CAD workflow |
| Intended use | Determines the required cleanup and structure |
Password-protected files
A protected PDF can be processed only when you are authorised to use it and provide the opening password. Do not remove ownership or editing restrictions from files you do not control. The opening password should be handled temporarily during conversion and should not be written into reports or stored as readable text.
Frequently asked questions
Should I flatten the PDF first?
Usually not. Flattening can destroy vector information and searchable text. Upload the original export whenever possible.
Is a screenshot good enough?
A screenshot may work only as a visual reference. It normally loses scale, line precision and text information needed for editable CAD.
What is the most useful extra detail?
One reliable real-world dimension is often the most valuable piece of information for checking the converted file.
Ready to convert?
Upload your original PDF. The first assessment determines whether direct conversion, cleanup or manual redrawing is required.
Upload your PDF