What you get with MDSS Large Format Scanning service:
Large format scanning up to A0 and beyond, including custom and non-standard sizes
Specialist handling for aged, fragile, and oversized documents
High-resolution output (up to 600 DPI) for technical detail and fine line work
Delivery as TIFF, PDF, PDF/A, or CAD-compatible formats
Custom indexing to your drawing register, reference system, or project structure
OCR applied to title blocks and annotation zones for full text searchability
GDPR-compliant handling with full chain-of-custody throughout
UK-wide collection from your site using secure, tracked transport
ISO-accredited service with experienced technical scanning staff
Completed files delivered via secure transfer, USB, or cloud portal
Large Format Scanning from MDSS
Engineering drawings, architectural plans, topographical surveys, and construction schematics represent some of the most important documents an organisation holds — and among the most difficult to store, retrieve, and share in paper form. Rolled, folded, or flat-stored large format documents degrade over time, are awkward to transport, and require specialist equipment simply to view.
MDSS provides professional large format scanning that converts your oversized document collection into high-resolution, fully searchable digital files. We handle everything from A2 drawings up to A0 and beyond — including non-standard sizes, folded plans, and aged documents that require careful handling before scanning can begin.
Our large format scanning service is used by engineering firms, construction companies, local authorities, utilities, and property management organisations across the UK. Every project is managed by experienced scanning technicians and delivered to your specification — format, resolution, indexing, and file naming all agreed before work begins.
Document Types We Scan
- Architectural and structural drawings
- Civil and mechanical engineering schematics
- Site plans and topographical surveys
- As-built and record drawings
- Utility and infrastructure maps
- Historic or heritage plans
- Construction and planning documents
- Operations and maintenance drawing sets
The Scanning Process
- Collection — Documents are collected from your site across the UK using secure, tracked vehicles. Rolled and folded plans are transported in protective tubes or flat-bed containers.
- Preparation — Our team flattens, cleans, and prepares documents for scanning. Fragile or aged documents are assessed individually before handling.
- Scanning — Each document is scanned on large format flatbed or roller equipment at the resolution required. Title block data is captured and OCR-processed.
- Quality Control — Every image is reviewed for completeness, sharpness, and accuracy. Any documents requiring rescanning are identified and reprocessed.
- Delivery — Files are delivered in your specified format, named and indexed to your project or drawing reference system. Originals returned, stored, or destroyed on request.
Drawings and Schematics
Professional digitisation of engineering and architectural drawing sets — from single projects to multi-decade legacy archives.
- Output matched to CAD, DMS, or document management system requirements
- Covers A2, A1, A0, and non-standard large format sizes
- Revision management — current and superseded drawings clearly identified
- Suitable for as-built records, planning submissions, and infrastructure surveys
- Drawing register integration and title block metadata extraction
Certified Destruction for GDPR and Regulatory Compliance
Specialist scanning for aged, fragile, or high-value large format documents that require careful handling and conservation-grade processes.
- Output formats suitable for both digital access and archival preservation
- Individual document assessment before scanning to identify fragility risks
- Image enhancement to recover detail from faded or degraded originals
- Flatbed scanning to avoid mechanical stress on aged or damaged plans
- Suitable for archive, museum, library, and public sector collections
Ongoing Drawing Management
Regular scanning support for organisations that produce or receive large format documents as part of ongoing project or operational workflows.
- Scales with project activity — increase or reduce frequency as needed
- Consistent naming, indexing, and format conventions across all batches
- Suitable for local authorities, utilities, property managers, and contractors
- Scheduled collections at agreed frequencies to keep digital records current
- Account management with reporting on volumes and project progress
Secure storage, scanning, and shredding — all in one place
Request a QuoteFrequently Asked Questions
Our standard large format service covers up to A0 (841mm × 1189mm). We can also scan non-standard oversized documents beyond A0 — contact us with your specific dimensions and we will confirm capability and approach.
Rolled plans are transported in protective tubes and carefully flattened before scanning. For aged documents where flattening carries a risk of damage, we assess each one individually and may use a flatbed process rather than a roller scanner to avoid applying mechanical stress.
Standard output is 300–400 DPI for most technical documents. For drawings with fine line work, small annotation text, or tight tolerances, we can scan at 600 DPI. Resolution is agreed with you before the project begins.
Yes. We deliver in raster formats compatible with AutoCAD and other major CAD platforms, including TIFF and PDF. For vector conversion from raster scans, we can discuss options depending on drawing type and complexity.
Both. We handle single drawings, project-specific drawing sets, and full legacy archives containing thousands of documents. Each is managed with the same process — pre-scan assessment, preparation, scanning, quality control, and indexed delivery.
Additional Document Scanning Solutions
Bulk Document Scanning
High-volume document scanning, handled from collection to delivery. Secure, GDPR-compliant, and tailored to your indexing requirements — whatever the scale.
Microfilm Scanning
Professional microfilm scanning that converts 16mm and 35mm rolls into high-resolution digital files — fully searchable, indexed, and accessible without specialist equipment.
Microfiche Scanning
Professional microfiche scanning that converts flat fiche sheets into high-resolution, fully searchable digital files — accessible without readers or specialist equipment.
Aperture Card Scanning
Professional aperture card scanning that converts legacy engineering drawings into high-resolution digital files — accurate, searchable, and ready for modern document systems.
Scan on Demand
Request any stored document and receive a high-resolution digital copy within hours – no physical retrieval, no delay, no disruption to your stored archive.
MDSS Flex
Document storage and scanning without long-term contracts or minimum commitments – MDSS Flex gives you professional records management on a fully flexible basis.
Scanning Knowledge Hub
Scanning Knowledge Hub Everything you need to know about document scanning and digitisation — from large-format drawings and bulk archive conversion, to scan-on-demand access and integrating digital files with your existing systems
MDSS Insights
Practical guides and expert insights on managing, protecting, and disposing of business information. Helping organisations stay compliant while improving document management processes.
We can also help with…
Document Storage
Professional off-site document storage for businesses. Secure, GDPR-compliant, and fully managed with fast retrieval, confidential shredding, and scan-on-demand built in.
Document Shredding
GDPR-compliant confidential shredding for businesses. Secure destruction of sensitive documents with a certificate of destruction issued as standard — one-off or ongoing.
Talk to our team
Whether you need to store a single archive room or manage records across multiple sites, we will give you a straight answer and a clear quote — no obligation, no jargon.
You’re in safe hands
