How to prepare a MapLab Survey delivery package for NetCAD, QGIS and AutoCAD
Field data proves its value when it opens correctly in the office. NetCAD, AutoCAD and QGIS expect different details from a delivery package.
Field takeaways
- DXF is practical for NetCAD and AutoCAD when units and project CRS are clear.
- GeoJSON and CSV are strong for QGIS and data workflows.
- KML/KMZ is useful for visual sharing and expects WGS84 geographic coordinates.
- Include a short CRS note with the delivery package.
- MapLab Survey keeps layers, notes, photos and exports organized.
Pick the format for the destination
DXF goes to CAD, GeoJSON and Shapefile go to GIS, CSV goes to a spreadsheet or a point list. Sending a GIS file to a CAD user creates work for both of you.
Layers survive, styling usually does not
Layer names and geometry transfer reliably. Colours, line weights and symbols often do not. Name layers by feature type so the receiving software can restyle them in one step.
The coordinate system travels separately
DXF carries no projection information. Write the EPSG code in the filename and in the covering message, every time.
Check one point on arrival
Open the file in the destination software and verify a known point before declaring the transfer finished.
Try these steps on your own phone.
MapLab Survey handles RTK/GNSS point capture, drawing, area and volume calculations and coordinate conversion, then exports to DXF, KML/KMZ, GeoJSON, Shapefile, GeoPackage, NCZ or CSV. Capture, calculation and export work offline. Live NTRIP corrections and online basemaps need a connection.
Frequently asked questions
Which export for CAD?
DXF is usually practical when CRS and units are clear.
GeoJSON or CSV for QGIS?
GeoJSON for geometry with attributes, CSV for point tables.
Is KML official delivery?
Usually no. It is best for visual sharing.
Technical references
The field guidance in this article is aligned with the technical and official references below.
Related: Exporting field data to CAD/GIS · Transformation report · TUCBS CRS · MapLab Survey