Our knowledge on the dynamics of international scaling is limited, especially among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). A longitudinal multiple-case study of SMEs in diverse industries allowed us to identify the alternating periods of accelerated and decelerated scaling during entrepreneurial internationalisation. Furthermore, we were able to follow how SMEs steer the scaling process with a number of mechanisms. We found three types of mechanisms which are needed as well as some contingency factors which may act as moderators in the process. Our study provides a more nuanced view on the strategic decision-making of internationalising SMEs and the dynamics related to scaling of operations.