Learn how to import or link to external files, including CAD files, DWF markup files, and more.
Topics in this section
About Importing or Linking CAD Files
If you have existing designs created using other CAD software, you can import or link them into a Revit model to use as a starting point for your design.
About Importing vs. Linking for Xrefs
Before using a DWG file that contains xrefs, consider whether you should import it or link it to a Revit project.
About Cutting Incoming Geometry
Whether you import or link geometry from other sources, you should understand how the geometry behaves in Revit and what determines whether the geometry can be cut in a plan or section view.
Linking CAD Files
You can link CAD files to a model to use the drawings as underlays for views or to place the drawings on sheets to include in the construction documentation set. Any changes to the linked CAD file are displayed in the Revit model.
Linking DWG Files with Grid Coordinates
Architects and civil engineers often need to maintain consistent geographic location (geolocation) information between models that are managed using multiple BIM products.
Importing CAD Files
You can import data from other CAD programs into a Revit model.
Layers in Linked and Imported Files
When you import or link a CAD file to a Revit project, you can query, hide, delete, or change the graphic display of layers in the file.
Import/Link Reference
Use these tasks and options when linking or importing files into a model.
Using IFC Files
You can use information from Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) files in Revit models.
Adding Images and PDF Files to Views
You can import or link raster images or PDF files in a model to use as background images or visual aids in 2D views. You can also place imported images or PDF files on sheets.
Using Point Cloud Files in a Project
Link a Point Cloud file into the project to provide a highly accurate visual reference of the existing condition of a building or site.
Import a Loads Analysis from a gbXML File
When the output from a third-party analysis application is a gbXML file, you can import the file into Revit and use it to design the HVAC system.