The paper presents approximate models of deformation for an inhomogeneous elastic strip. Approximate models reflect the distribution features of the inhomogeneous structure properties over the thickness. The models are based on hypotheses about the nature of the change in the components of the displacement field, which allows to consider arbitrary laws of heterogeneity: continuous, as well as discontinuous or having a strong gradient. Solutions of the contact problem for different inhomogeneity laws are constructed. Comparative analysis of the models is carried out.