Disclosed is a method for three-dimensionally measuring objects, according to which the positions of a measuring element (14) are determined by means of a locating method (e.g. optically, electromagnetically, or acoustically), the positions being relative to a reference system defined by the associated locating system (16), and desired dimensions of the object (24) being calculated from the determined positions of the measuring element. Also disclosed is a corresponding device for three-dimensionally measuring objects. The measuring element can be moved by means of a robot arm (26) or a flying object (e.g. a type of zeppelin).