topic Re: maps export in ArcGIS Pro Questions

maps export

ChuckTurlington — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 17:43:51 GMT

Hello,

Trying to export maps so they import into Civil 3D to the correct coordinate location. A zoomed-out location map locates a mile or two south of the zoomed-in vicinity map, but with the same coordinates. This was a simple process with ArcMap, but not so simple with ArcGIS Pro. Can someone explain the best method for exporting my GIS map to fix this issue?

Re: maps export

ThomasHoman — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 22:37:19 GMT

Esri and AutoDesk have become much more integrated/interoperable over the years so if you are running a current version of Civil 3D it is very easy to set a background map from an esri imagery source without going through the Pro export process.

Big thing to remember - you CAD dwg needs to have a Coordinate System assigned to properly register your data against GIS.

This link does a good walk through - https://thecadmasters.com/esri-arcgis-base-maps-in-civil-3d-2025/

Re: maps export

ChuckTurlington — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 17:34:38 GMT

Thomas,

Thank you for your reply. I find the methods for locating the project and applying a location are no better than those in ArcGIS Pro, which shift the image due to scale and image center. Not sure why I would want to "move" an image that is coordinate correct using either tool. However, the basic in-house MAP feature on the geolocation tab is good enough for now, though I think it could use better image quality. If there is more explanation about a CAD map location or comments on the ArcGIS Pro maps, I am all ears.

Thanks again for your feedback. First chance, I will spend more time with it to better understand.

Re: maps export

Debert — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 13:10:55 GMT

My understanding of setting up .DWGs is that first step is to set the correct CRS- so match the .DWG CRS to your Pro Map. Hope this helps!

Re: maps export

ThomasHoman — Sun, 10 May 2026 16:17:00 GMT

Take a look into Datum Transformations. If your projection is starting out in the really lousy Web Mercator Aux Sphere then a DT is critical.

Re: maps export

ChuckTurlington — Mon, 11 May 2026 15:03:00 GMT

Thomas,

I noticed the Esri coordinate transformation was WGS84 -> NAD83. I assume this is an on-the-fly transformation from the native Esri coordinate? But my Civil 3D file coordinate is set correctly, and no transformation is toggled.