You can bring SketchUp models (.skp) into a Snaptrude project, and take a Snaptrude model into SketchUp. Import .skp files directly. To open a Snaptrude model in SketchUp, export it from Snaptrude as IFC and import that file in SketchUp.
Before you start
Use .skp files saved in SketchUp 2024 or earlier. Files saved in a newer SketchUp version show a warning when you import them. See "Import a SketchUp file" below.
To open the IFC file, use a version of SketchUp that can import IFC files (such as SketchUp Pro).
Exporting needs a paid plan. The Free plan can't export models or drawings.
IFC export runs on Autodesk Platform Services (APS). If APS has an outage, IFC export stops working until the service is back.
Import a SketchUp file
Open your project in Snaptrude.
In the Layers section of the left panel, set the layer you want the model on as the active layer.
Click the project name at the top left and choose Import.
In the Import dialog, drag your .skp file onto the dialog or click Or Browse File and select it. SketchUp files are accepted under 3D Files (.skp, .fbx, .obj).
Check the model on the canvas once the import finishes.
Note: If the .skp file was saved in a SketchUp version newer than 2024, Snaptrude shows a warning or error message. In SketchUp, use File > Save As, choose SketchUp 2024 (or earlier) as the file version, then import the saved copy.
Tip: Imports go to the active layer. Putting the SketchUp model on its own layer lets you hide or lock it in one step later.
Use SketchUp models as furniture or doors and windows
If the .skp file is a furniture item, door or window you want to reuse, add it to your project library or team library instead of importing it onto the canvas. Library uploads accept .skp files along with other 3D formats such as .obj and .fbx. See the library articles listed under Related articles.
Export your Snaptrude model to SketchUp
To open a Snaptrude model in SketchUp, export it as IFC and then import the IFC file in SketchUp.
Step 1: Export IFC from Snaptrude
Click the project name at the top left of the screen.
Choose Export > Model/Drawing.
Enter a File name and set File type to Industry Foundation Classes (.ifc).
Click Begin Export and download the IFC file when it's ready.
Note: Snaptrude runs one export at a time. If you start another RVT, DWG, IFC or PDF export while one is still running, you'll see An export is already in progress. Wait for the first export to finish. If an export fails, the dialog closes and shows the reason.
Step 2: Import the IFC file into SketchUp
In SketchUp, open the File menu and choose Import.
In the file dialog, set the file type to All Supported Types or IFC File Format.
Select the IFC file you exported from Snaptrude and click Import.
When SketchUp confirms that the IFC file was imported, close the results panel. The Snaptrude model is in your SketchUp file.
Note: The IFC route doesn't carry over materials. Reapply materials in SketchUp after the import.
Troubleshooting
The .skp import shows a version warning: the file was saved in a SketchUp version newer than 2024. Save a copy in the 2024 format and import it again.
IFC export fails or doesn't start: IFC export depends on Autodesk Platform Services. If several attempts fail, APS may be down. Try again later, or contact Snaptrude support.
The model comes into SketchUp without materials: this is expected for IFC. Reapply materials in SketchUp.
Related articles
Export Models and Drawings (DWG, PDF, IFC, OBJ, FBX)
Working with Imports on Canvas
Layers: Organize, Hide and Lock Your Model
Add Your Own Materials, Furniture, Doors and Windows to a Project
Team Library: Materials, Furniture, Families and Costs
Rhino Interoperability