How to Convert SKP to OBJ
SketchUp SKP files require a two-step conversion. Export to DAE in SketchUp, then convert DAE to OBJ with our free tool. Free, no sign-up.
Ready to Convert?
Export your SKP to DAE in SketchUp, then use our free DAE to OBJ converter.
Open DAE to OBJ Converter3 Steps to Convert SKP to OBJ
Open in SketchUp
Open your .skp file in SketchUp (Free or Pro). SketchUp Web (free) also works for this step.
Export as DAE
Go to File > Export > 3D Model. Select COLLADA (.dae) as the format. DAE is an open format that preserves geometry and materials.
Convert DAE to OBJ
Upload the exported .dae file to our free DAE to OBJ converter. Download the OBJ file when conversion is complete.
SKP vs OBJ Format Comparison
| Feature | SKP | OBJ |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | SketchUp Project | Wavefront Object |
| Maintained by | Trimble (SketchUp) | Wavefront Technologies |
| Structure | Proprietary binary | Text-based |
| Materials / textures | Yes | Yes (MTL + images) |
| Components / groups | Yes | Yes (named groups) |
| Scenes / styles | Yes | No |
| Software support | SketchUp only | Universal (all 3D apps) |
| Primary use | Architecture, interior design | Model exchange |
| Open format | No (proprietary) | Yes (open spec) |
What Is an SKP File?
SKP is the native file format of SketchUp, a 3D modeling application widely used in architecture, interior design, and construction. SKP files store 3D models, materials, components, styles, scenes, and extensions data.
SKP is a proprietary format owned by Trimble (formerly Google). No open-source parser can reliably read SKP files outside of SketchUp itself. To convert SKP to other formats, you must use SketchUp to export the file.
Last updated: August 2026. Format details reference the SketchUp overview and the OBJ file specification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I convert SKP to OBJ online?
Not directly. SKP is SketchUp's proprietary format and cannot be parsed by browser-based converters. However, you can export SKP to DAE (COLLADA) in SketchUp, then convert DAE to OBJ using our free online tool.
How do I convert SKP to OBJ in SketchUp?
In SketchUp, go to File > Export > 3D Model. Select COLLADA (.dae) format. Then upload the .dae file to our DAE to OBJ converter to get your OBJ file.
Is there a free SKP to OBJ converter?
SketchUp Free (web version) can open SKP files and export them as DAE. Then use our free DAE to OBJ converter to complete the conversion. No paid software needed.
Can I convert SKP to OBJ without SketchUp?
Not easily. SKP is a proprietary format that only SketchUp can read natively. You need SketchUp (Free or Pro) to open the file first, then export to DAE for conversion.
Does converting SKP to OBJ preserve materials?
When you export SKP to DAE in SketchUp, materials and textures are preserved. When you convert DAE to OBJ, basic materials transfer to the OBJ/MTL output. Some complex SketchUp materials may be simplified.
Can I convert SKP to OBJ on Mac?
Yes. SketchUp has a Mac version (Free and Pro). Export to DAE in SketchUp on Mac, then use our online DAE to OBJ converter in any browser.
What is the difference between SKP and OBJ?
SKP is SketchUp's proprietary format storing 3D models, materials, scenes, and components. OBJ is a universal, text-based 3D format that opens in virtually every 3D application. OBJ is for model exchange; SKP is for SketchUp projects.
Can I batch convert SKP to OBJ?
In SketchUp Pro, you can use Ruby scripts to batch export multiple SKP files to DAE. Then convert each DAE to OBJ using our tool. SketchUp Free does not support batch export.
Does SketchUp Free support DAE export?
Yes. SketchUp Free (the web version at app.sketchup.com) can open SKP files and export them as COLLADA (.dae). This is the free path to convert SKP to OBJ.
What is SKP file format?
SKP is the native file format of SketchUp, a 3D modeling application widely used in architecture, interior design, and construction. SKP files store 3D models, materials, components, styles, and scenes.
Why can't I convert SKP directly in the browser?
SKP is a proprietary binary format owned by Trimble (SketchUp's developer). No open-source parser exists that can reliably read SKP files outside of SketchUp itself. The DAE export path is the standard workaround.
Are there alternatives to SketchUp for opening SKP files?
Some 3D software can import SKP files (e.g., 3ds Max, Revit, ArchiCAD via plugins). However, SketchUp Free is the most reliable and accessible option for opening and re-exporting SKP files.