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Frequently Asked Questions

Rental Process FAQ

Welcome to our FAQ page! Here, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to provide you with quick and informative answers to common queries about our products, services, and policies. Whether you’re a new customer looking to learn more about what we offer or a long-time user seeking clarification on various topics, you’ll find the information you need right here.

Our goal is to make your experience with us as smooth and enjoyable as possible, and that starts with providing clear and concise information. If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, feel free to reach out to our dedicated support team for further assistance.

Thank you for choosing HTS Advanced Solutions, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

IS SHIPPING INCLUDED IN THE PRICE?

No, shipping is not included in the price. The customer is responsible for all shipping costs.

If we ship on our account we re-charge at our cost + 15%.

WHEN DOES THE RENTAL START AND FINISH?

Based on overnight shipping, the rental starts the day you receive it and the last day of rental is the day you ship it back. Any major courier is acceptable (i.e. FedEx, UPS, DHL, US Postal Service, etc.) although FedEx is preferred.

If we ship on our account we re-charge at our cost + 15%.

IS A DEPOSIT REQUIRED?

Generally not.

WHAT INSURANCE IS NEEDED TO COVER THE EQUIPMENT?

We require an insurance certificate showing HTS Advanced Solutions as the certificate holder and that you are covered for “Rental Equipment” for the full replacement value of the equipment on your general liability policy. This will be in the range of $50,000-$125,000 depending upon which equipment you rent.

WHAT OPTIONS DO I HAVE, IF MY INSURANCE DOESN’T COVER RENTED EQUIPMENT?

You can rent one of our technicians and a scanner to support you on your project. As long as one of technicians is with the equipment at all times, it is covered under our insurance policy.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I DAMAGE THE EQUIPMENT?

All equipment is inspected upon return, and you are liable for any damages not attributed to normal wear and tear.

WHAT ACCESSORIES ARE INCLUDED WITH A SCANNER RENTAL?

A standard scanner rental includes 2 x batteries, power supply, power cable, tripod, quick-release panorama bracket, or Tribrach, data storage/SD card, and custom transit case. Additional components and accessories are available for rent for an additional fee such as sphere sets, tilt and turn targets, laptop, and software.

DO I NEED SOFTWARE?

The scan data will need to be processed and registered and there are many options for software, some product-specific, others industry-specific. We can recommend software based on your workflow and application. If you do not have experience working with scan data we strongly recommend using HTS Advanced Solutions to provide training before any rental.

CAN I RENT SOFTWARE?

We can provide daily, and weekly rentals of Leica Geosystems Cyclone or FARO SCENE. The software can be delivered by E-license, Dongle, or on a dedicated laptop.

HOW CAN I GET TRAINING?

HTS Advanced Solutions offers a full range of training covering field data acquisition, post-processing, and other advanced workflows and techniques (either directly or through our network of partners).

WHAT HAPPENS IF THE EQUIPMENT STOPS WORKING DURING THE RENTAL?

We provide 24/7 technical support to troubleshoot the problem. If we can’t get you back up and running we will send out another unit, at no cost to you.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO PROCESS A REQUEST FOR RENTAL?

If you have an account with us typically within an hour or two if needed for pick up. For new clients usually same-day if payment is through CC. Net 30 maybe a day or two depending on the issuance of the Certificate of Insurance.

DO YOU OFFER GUARANTEE ON PRE-OWNED EQUIPMENT?

All pre-owned sales are sold as is. If there is a transferable warranty, that would occur. Pre-owned sales come with a valid calibration certificate and a recent test sheet.

HOW DO I KNOW WHAT IS THE RIGHT PIECE OF EQUIPMENT FOR ME?

Picking the right piece of equipment comes down to the specific requirements of your project and deliverables. In the case of 3D Scanners knowing if you would need a long or short range will allow you to pick between a station or handheld unit. Specific accuracy and format will all account for what is the best solution for you. If you are unsure, you can discuss your needs with our experienced technicians and we will help you with the selection.

Model Making FAQ

HOW MUCH DOES A MODEL COST?

It varies. Without knowing the type of model and the level of detail required it is difficult to assess the cost.

Factors affecting cost:

  • level of detail
  • size/scale of the model
  • cover needed
  • pedestal needed with or without locking casters
  • lighting required
  • travel case required
  • amount of 3D printing required, etc.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO MAKE A MODEL?

The time it takes to make a model will depend on the factors listed below. As a rule of thumb, reach out for quotes 10-12 weeks in advance, even earlier for larger projects.

Turn-around time depends on our current work load so we recommend that you contact us early!

Factors affecting delivery time:

  • level of detail
  • size/scale of the model
  • cover needed
  • pedestal needed with or without locking casters
  • lighting required
  • travel case required
  • amount of 3D printing required, etc.

WHAT DOES LEVEL OF DETAIL MEANS?

High, Medium or Low:
A model may be comprised of different levels of detail as the one shown below.

The level of detail a model requires depends on what you are showcasing. Sometimes a model needs to represent a structure and not necessarily show the detail of the structure. The example below shows all three levels of detail. High, Medium, and Low. Just because a structure is white does not necessarily make it a low-detail item. It can be highly detailed by adding gables, railings, people, cars, trees, etc and all be white. On the flip side, an item could be low detail, yet painted green.

Model of Toyota Center, George R. Brown Convention Center & Minute Maid Park showing 3 different levels of detail: High, Medium & Low

WHAT MATERIALS ARE MODELS MADE FROM?

Laser cutting and 3D print technology are leveraged to make our models. The materials used can range from acrylic, styrene, urethane, wood, brass, aluminum, and other durable long-lasting materials. We also use only top-grade automotive paint for our models.

Model bases are constructed using the torsion box technique for added durability. The base trim and cover lip are covered using Wilson Art Graphite Nebula.

DO I NEED TO PROVIDE CAD FILES IN ORDER TO HAVE A MODEL MADE?

We prefer that you provide CAD files but it is not always necessary.

If you do not have the CAD files our in-house 3D Scanning Dept. (who have the necessary expertise & equipment) can help, whether it is a landscape, building, figurine, etc.

HOW DO I TAKE CARE OF A MODEL?

Please refer to our care instructions webpage for more information.

IS DELIVERY OF THE MODEL INCLUDED?

Local delivery is included; however, shipping is not.

CAN YOU FIX OTHER COMPANIE'S MODELS?

Yes, even if we didn’t build your model we can repair and restore an existing model to its former glory. Visit to learn more Model Restoration, Cleaning & Repairs

Model Care Instructions

Always use 2 people to lift the model in and out of the travel case

HOW TO DISPLAY/STORE YOUR MODEL

Avoid storing near a window. A model will deteriorate over time if it is exposed to the sun.

HOW TO REMOVE FINGERPRINTS FROM THE MODEL'S COVER

Models with covers need to be cleaned periodically. Using a microfiber cloth with a plastic cleaner such as Brillianize will clean and polish at the same time. DO NOT use glass cleaner or paper towels. The ammonia will cause cloudiness and the paper towels could scratch the surfaces.

HOW TO DUST YOUR MODEL

Use compressed air to remove any dust that may have settled on your model. Please be mindful of using it around trees or grass fixtures in case they shed.

HOW TO PACKAGE YOUR MODEL

Use household Saran wrap to wrap the cover to the base for travel. Plastic wrapping will also protect the cover from scratches and fingerprints while you are setting it up for your display. DO NOT use packing shrink wrap. Chemicals in this type of wrap are not compatible with the acrylic cover and could leave permanent marks.

HOW TO UNWRAP YOUR MODEL - NO KNIVES PLEASE

The last thing you want is to nick the shiny acrylic finish of your model as you are unwrapping it. We recommend that you DO NOT use anything sharp like a knife.

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